Among the 14.2 million cosmetic minimally-invasive procedures performed in 2015, the most common was Botox (6.7 million procedures, up 1% from 2014 and 759% since 2000). This treatment is known for a number of uses, most notably for its ability to improve the appearance of wrinkles. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding Botox that can cause potential patients to become deterred from seeking treatment. Here are just a few of the misconceptions about Botox you should know the truth about.
Botox will cause a patient to become unable to express emotion in their face.
As one of the most misinformed myths surrounding Botox surgery, this falsehood needs to be addressed and debunked. Many people think that their face will become expressionless or ‘stuck’ after getting Botox treatment, but the only time this could happen is if the patient receives too much of the treatment. Rest assured that any experienced professional will be able to accurately provide treatment with virtually no risk of over-dosage.
Botox treatment is painful.
Though pain is certainly a subjective measurement, most patients report feeling very little or no pain at all during the injection process. That’s why many people refer to the treatment as the ‘lunchtime procedure’ because there’s virtually no recovery period or pain associated with the procedure. If anything, you’ll feel a slight sting during the injection that will disappear in just a few moments. Keep in mind that when properly applied, numbing cream can also help to ensure little to no pain during the injection.
The results of Botox are permanent.
Finally, it’s important to address that the results of the Botox treatment don’t last forever. But they also don’t disappear immediately. The results of the treatment typically last from three to six months. Of course, the results also aren’t immediately evident — the treatment starts to work within one to three days after the injections. But don’t expect to see the full results until a week or even 12 days afterward.
For the first time on record, Americans spent more than $13.5 billion on combined (surgical and nonsurgical) aesthetic procedures in a single calendar year, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). Knowing the truth behind these Botox surgery myths can help you make the best decisions for your cosmetic needs.