BOTOX

Three Things to Know Before Getting Botox

Botox injections are one of the most popular aesthetic procedures because the results are excellent, there is little to no downtime, and when done properly the side effects are nearly non-existent. Still, many people have questions or even reservations about Botox.

In this article Doctor Ali explains what you need to know before getting Botox, to put your mind at ease and to ensure the best possible results!

1. Avoid “Bargain Bin” Botox

Always get your Botox treatments from a medical facility that is affiliated with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Salons and “back room” Botox operations may offer lower prices – but you can’t be sure of what you are getting. Low, discount prices on Botox may mean that you may be getting a diluted dosage, or that it was purchased from a supplier in another country.

It is illegal for doctors to purchase medications such as Botox outside the country for use on patients within the U.S.A. Unauthorized Botox suppliers may even compromise the effectiveness and/or safety of Botox, by not storing or shipping them at the proper temperature or selling them after their expiration date.

Additionally, back-room and non-US Botox may even be counterfeit products!

Remember, Botox is made from a “toxin” that is perfectly safe when administered by a trained doctor or nurse – but can be very dangerous in the hands of an untrained or inexperienced person.

2. Avoid Blood-thinners & Natural Anti-coagulants Before Botox

It is important to avoid blood thinners and anticoagulants (such as aspirin and ibuprofen) for at least 2 weeks before Botox treatments. This is because these types of drugs hinder blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising.

You should also avoid certain foods and natural supplements, including some seemingly innocent items. Fish oil, multivitamins, green tea, cinnamon, ginger, and red wine should all be avoided for a full week before Botox treatment, as these can also weaken blood vessels and prevent clotting.

Certain antibiotics, specifically aminoglycosides (e.g. gentamicin), can increase the potency of neurotoxins. To avoid risks, do not receive Botox treatments for the duration of your antibiotic prescription.

3. A Botox Consultation is Crucial

You should also be given a thorough health assessment prior to the injection. While most healthy adults are good candidates for Botox, there are a few underlying medical conditions that can prevent you from getting Botox, including: ALS (“Lou Gehrig’s disease”); myasthenia gravis; Lambert-Eaton syndrome; emphysema; certain types of heart disease or an active infection.

An experienced Doctor or Nurse who performs Botox injections should also have you smile, frown, talk, and raise your eyebrows up and down, to carefully evaluate how different areas of your face naturally move. This helps achieve the goal of looking refreshed and not expressionless.