BOTOX® In Eugene, OR

The "tox" in BOTOX stands for toxin. The FDA-approved drug is made using the bacteria Clostridium botulinum.

If you're thinking botulism, you're right. That said, BOTOX is manufactured with a minute amount of this neurotoxin, which is diluted in a sterile saline solution. There are only 0.00000000005 grams of botulinum toxin in each unit of BOTOX Cosmetic. That's 10 million times less than a grain of salt!

The amount of dilution involved in the manufacturing of this drug nearly wipes out all risks of dangerous side effects. Just be sure to receive your injections from a properly trained and certified provider.

Some people believe that when they receive BOTOX injections, they will appear surprised or be unable to move their faces to show expressions. This is untrue.

BOTOX doesn't freeze your face. It relaxes the muscles, so motions like frowning aren't as strong as they would be naturally. Even with the lessened muscle movement, though, you can expect to look like yourself, only younger!

It would be a bit over the top to describe BOTOX injections as painful. Most injectable treatments, whether cosmetic or medically necessary, can be uncomfortable, though.

To make the process as minimally invasive as possible, your provider uses a very small needle when performing BOTOX injections. You can expect a tiny pinprick sensation that lasts momentarily. There are no lingering sensations or stinging at the injection sites.

If you're concerned, discuss the use of topical numbing medication with your healthcare provider. Keep in mind that a topical anesthetic takes about half an hour to take effect, so your appointment time will increase as a result.

It would be a bit over-the-top to describe BOTOX injections as painful. Most injectable treatments, whether cosmetic or medically necessary, can be uncomfortable. To support your comfort, your provider uses a very small needle when performing BOTOX injections. You can expect a tiny pinprick sensation that lasts momentarily. There are no lingering sensations or stinging at the injection sites. If you're concerned, though, talk to your provider about the use of topical numbing medication. Keep in mind that a topical anesthetic takes about half an hour to take effect, so your appointment time increases from about 20 minutes in total to nearly an hour.

There isn't much that you need to do before getting BOTOX. In fact, you don't have to take any precautions at all if you don't want to.

The primary recommendation that doctors make is to avoid products, including supplements, vitamins, and alcohol, that can thin the blood. The purpose of this precaution is to decrease your chances of bruising after your injectable treatment.

If you're not concerned about this temporary side effect, maintain your normal activities right up until the day of your appointment.

Similar to pre-treatment precautions, some of the aftercare instructions for BOTOX patients focus on preventing bruising. While you can resume most of your normal activities after your appointment, it's beneficial to avoid strenuous activity for at least a few hours after getting BOTOX.

You also should avoid lying down, massaging the treatment area, or receiving any other services that press on the area for four or more hours. Pressure could encourage the product to spread into surrounding tissue, where you don't want to see its effects.

The product used for BOTOX injections is the same for men and women. However, men generally have more robust facial muscles, especially in the forehead and between the brows. Because of this, they often need higher doses of BOTOX to achieve similar results.

Injection techniques may also be adjusted based on a man's facial structure and aesthetic goals. The goal for male patients is usually to maintain a natural, masculine appearance while softening lines, rather than erasing all movement.

A typical BOTOX appointment lasts around 15 to 30 minutes. After a brief consultation to discuss your goals and medical history, the actual injection process is quick, often taking less than 10 minutes.

Since it's a non-surgical procedure with no required recovery time, many men schedule it during a lunch break or between meetings. There's minimal disruption to your day, and most clients return immediately to work or other responsibilities.

If it's your first session, your provider may take a bit more time to answer questions and ensure you're comfortable.

The right amount of BOTOX depends on several factors, including the area being treated, your facial muscle strength, and your desired outcome. Men typically require more units than women due to stronger musculature.

During your appointment, your provider will assess your facial structure, evaluate the movement of your muscles, and consider the depth of your wrinkles. This helps them determine the optimal dosage to deliver subtle yet noticeable results without compromising facial expressions.

BOTOX does not interfere with beard growth, shaving, or the health of facial hair. Injections are placed under the skin and into specific muscle groups, not into hair follicles. That said, your provider may adjust their technique if you have dense facial hair, especially in areas like the lower face or jawline, to ensure accurate placement.

If you're concerned, you can shave beforehand or ask about alternate approaches. However, BOTOX can be safely and effectively administered regardless of facial hair. Experienced injectors will work around grooming preferences to maintain both your look and treatment goals.

Yes, BOTOX is often used after facial surgery to maintain or enhance results. Whether you've had a facelift, eyelid surgery, or rhinoplasty, your provider will assess healing and tissue sensitivity before proceeding.

Timing is important, though. You'll typically need to wait several weeks or months post-surgery to allow swelling to subside and tissues to stabilize. Once cleared, BOTOX can smooth any residual expression lines or refine asymmetries that surgery didn't address.

Be sure to share your surgical history during your consultation, so your provider can plan your treatment safely and effectively.