How Long Does BOTOX® Cosmetic Last?
BOTOX® Cosmetic is an injectable solution to treat lines and wrinkles. BOTOX is composed of a purified form of botulinum toxin. It targets the facial muscles responsible for the most common facial wrinkles. BOTOX temporarily paralyzes the muscles to prevent dynamic wrinkles such as forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet.
BOTOX is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatments. Individuals who come to the Landings Surgical Centre, which serves Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, often ask, “How long does BOTOX last?” Our doctors are happy to prepare patients for how long BOTOX results should last and how to maintain treatment results long-term.
The BOTOX Procedure
A BOTOX procedure takes little time. The average treatment is completed in about 15 minutes, making it easy to fit into even the busiest schedules. Because of its short duration, a BOTOX appointment is sometimes called a “lunch break procedure.”
At the start of a BOTOX procedure, the skin is cleaned and numbed with an anesthetic cream. Once the skin is prepared, the doctor administers a series of injections targeted at desired muscles. Injections are made with a small needle that may cause slight discomfort. The injections may cause small bumps at the injection site, but those typically resolve before patients leave our office. Other possible side effects include skin redness or mild bruising, which should last no more than a day or two.
When Will I Notice My BOTOX Results?
It takes time for the neurotoxins in BOTOX to take effect and block nerve impulses to the muscles, so treatment results are not immediate. BOTOX results are usually noticeable within three to five days, but it can take up to a week or two for full treatment results to develop.
Average Lifespan of BOTOX Results
Our patients should go into BOTOX treatment with an understanding that procedure results are not permanent. Over time, the effect of the neurotoxins is diminished, and the nerves again begin sending signals to the muscles to create contractions.
The lifespan of BOTOX results may vary slightly for each patient. On average, BOTOX results last three to four months. However, some patients benefit from BOTOX results for as long as six months. Unfortunately, some patients may notice lines and wrinkles developing in as little as two months after BOTOX treatment. BOTOX results may diminish more quickly after the first treatment but usually last longer after a second treatment.
BOTOX Maintenance
Maintenance appointments are the best way to preserve the results of BOTOX treatment long-term. BOTOX is safe for continued use under a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon. Touch-up appointments can be scheduled every three to four months or as needed to minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Many patients find the period of time between appointments can be extended longer than four months, especially with consistent treatment.
Contact Us
If your facial features are aged by lines and wrinkles, BOTOX offers a fast and minimally-invasive way to restore smoother, younger-looking skin. To learn more about the BOTOX procedure or anticipated treatment results, send us a message online or call (902) 492-2007 and schedule a consultation at the Landings Surgical Centre in Halifax.
