How Does Botox® Work?

Fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes and forehead can make you look tired or even angry. Botox® relaxes these expression lines for a smoother, refreshed appearance. This injectable treatment lets you enjoy months of natural-looking, youthful results. 

What is Botox® (Botulinum Toxin)?

Botox® is a neuromodulator, also known as a neurotoxin. It uses botulinum toxin, a compound that harmlessly stops the signals from your facial nerves to the muscles that create your wrinkles. The effects of Botox® on nerves are temporary and cause no harm, giving many people the confidence to try this treatment for the first time. 

How Does Botox® Work?

When injected, Botox® targets the nearby facial nerves. It contains proteins that help transport the botulinum toxin to its desired location. Reaching the nerves stops them from releasing a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.  Without the feedback of acetylcholine, your facial muscles stop contracting. Since Botox® is precisely targeted, all your other facial muscles continue to move normally, maintaining a relaxed but natural appearance. 

The lack of muscle contractions stops lines and wrinkles from forming with your facial expressions. It also smooths deep wrinkles that stay in place even when your face is at rest. Common areas treated with Botox® at Heart of Texas Eye Care include crow’s feet, glabellar lines (between the eyebrows) and forehead creases. Medical uses for Botox® include migraines, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms. 

Is There Any Downtime After Botox®?

Botox® injections take as little as fifteen minutes. Numbing is available but often not needed. You can return to your usual activities with no downtime, although we may recommend waiting till the next day to resume your exercise routine. You may notice minor redness, swelling, or bruising in the injection area that fades within a few days. You can minimize your risk of bruising by avoiding NSAIDs, certain supplements, and alcohol use before treatment. 

How Long Does Botox® Last?

Botox® results can appear within a few days. They usually take seven to ten days to develop fully. Results usually last from three to four months but can last up to six months, especially for people who have regular Botox® sessions and keep their facial muscles relaxed. We also recommend quality sun protection and sunglasses to protect your skin, especially the delicate eye area. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Botox®?

Botox® is safe for most healthy adults. We recommend this treatment for many individuals who want to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. While you may associate Botox® with people who already have lines and wrinkles, it can also prevent them from forming. You should not have Botox® if you have an infection or active skin condition in the treatment area. People who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions should not have Botox®. 

Take the Next Step

If you’d like to learn more about Botox®, schedule a consultation with our Heart of Texas Eye Care team, serving Dripping Springs, Austin, Kyle, Bee Cave, Marble Falls, and other surrounding areas. Contact us at (512) 213-2220 today!

*Individual results may vary