What Can I Expect From My First Botox Treatment?

One minimally invasive cosmetic treatment trumps all others in terms of popularity — and it’s no surprise why. This option works extremely well, can be applied quickly, and doesn’t come with any downtime. It’s Botox®. 

If you’ve been considering this cosmetic injectable for yourself, you’re in the right place. Here at Atlantic Dermatology in Longs, South Carolina, Kenneth Warrick, MD, FAAD, offers his Botox expertise to people ready to say goodbye to their wrinkles.

So, should you try this option for yourself? Talking with Dr. Warrick can help you decide for sure, but we can get you started here. Let’s take a look at what to expect at and shortly after your first Botox treatment. 

Understanding how it works

Botox — short for botulinum toxin, the active ingredient — works by temporarily freezing the muscles causing specific wrinkles. That means it works for dynamic wrinkles, the type that develop because of repeated facial expressions. Dr. Warrick offers Botox for:

• Forehead lines
• Frown lines between your eyebrows
• Crow’s feet

He can also use Botox to address excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) and to improve the contours of your face. 

After talking with Dr. Warrick about your cosmetic goals, we tailor the location and number of Botox injections to help you look and feel your best. 

What to expect during your appointment

Fortunately, Dr. Warrick only needs to apply a very tiny amount of Botox for it to work. You will likely need several injections, but because the needle is so small and the dose so minimal, they should be quick and relatively painless. Most people say it feels like a small pinch. 

After you and Dr. Warrick agree on your Botox plan, the actual injections take just a few minutes. In other words, you don’t need to block off your whole day to get this treatment. A lot of people consider it a lunchtime procedure, meaning you can pop in and then continue on with your day right afterward. 

What to expect after your treatment

Botox doesn’t require any downtime. You can go straight back to work, school, or whatever else is on your calendar. You might have mild side effects like swelling or redness, but they should fade quickly. 

You won’t see the effects of the Botox right away. Instead, most people notice it kicking in a few days after treatment. You should see the full impact within two weeks. 

The results of your first Botox treatment should last 3–6 months. Whenever you notice the effects start to fade, you can pop back into Atlantic Dermatology for a touchup treatment. Because Dr. Warrick already knows your cosmetic goals, any appointments after your first should be quick. 

Long story short, Botox gives you an effective, convenient way to smooth wrinkles and look your best. If you want to learn more or you’re ready to schedule your first treatment, call our team at (843) 399-9965 or book your appointment online today.