BOTOX® and Dysport® are popular facial muscle relaxers, so most people know what to expect in terms of results. But, if it’s your first treatment, you may not know what to expect from the process itself.

Although facial muscle relaxers injections are a safe non-surgical procedure, it can still be intimidating to go into any treatment without knowing what to expect. So in this article, we go into detail on what to expect before and after Botox & Dysport – from consultation to aftercare.

The first step in getting a Botox or Dysport treatment is the consultation. Always seek out professional plastic surgeons. In addition to their expertise, you also get the certainty that they have the right training, dosages, and formulas.

When you go in for your consultation the doctor or injection specialist will meet with you to discuss your goals. Tell us about any specific lines or trouble areas that you’re hoping to address. As well, inform us of any medications you are currently taking.

We will take a look at both the target areas and your facial structure to determine the approach for the best aesthetic results. We may recommend other services such as dermal fillers in place of, or in addition to, Botox or Dysport.

Once the consultation is complete, we will set you up with an appointment.

In the days leading up to your Dysport or Botox injection, it’s best to follow a couple of simple steps. These will help to improve the results and minimize potential side effects. Here’s what to do in the week before Botox or Dysport injections:

• Avoid Aspirin or Anti-inflammatory medication– Generally, it’s best to avoid over-the-counter painkillers. Tylenol is fine. These can increase the chance of bruising or swelling from the injection.
• Avoid Alcohol – At least for 2 to 3 days before the procedure, it’s best to avoid alcohol. It can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising.

Botox & Dysport treatments are outpatient procedures. It’s a short procedure, lasting just a few minutes. You can bring someone with you if you wish, but it’s not a necessity.

To best prepare yourself, follow these steps on the day of your treatment:

• Skip Makeup – Generally, we suggest you avoid applying makeup in the area of the injection. The plastic surgeon cleans the area with an antiseptic or rubbing alcohol, which wipes off any makeup in the area.
• Numbing – If you have concerns about pain or discomfort we can provide options.
• Stay Calm – Although it’s a safe procedure, people are sometimes nervous about anything involving needles. It’s okay, this is common. But it’s best to stay calm for your treatment. Deep breathing exercises are a great way to achieve calmness and/or reduce anxiety.

After your Botox or Dysport treatment, you mostly go about your day as normal. However, there are still a few things you should and should not do after your treatment:

• Hands Off!: It’s tempting to touch the injection area. It’s exciting and it may feel a little different than usual. However, it’s important not to touch. As well, you should avoid rubbing, massaging, or having other facial treatments in the area for the next 24 hours.
• Don’t Overexert Yourself: Avoid heavy exercise for the rest of the day after your treatment. After all, you deserve a day off.
• Avoid Heavy Drinking: It’s a cause for celebration, but it’s not the best time for heavy drinking. Alcohol can cause side-effects or reduce efficacy. Still, one glass of wine with dinner probably won’t cause any problems.
• Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications: Any blood-thinning medication can result in bruising or swelling after a fresh injection. If you must take a painkiller, it’s better to use ones containing acetaminophen (ex. Tylenol). Products like Advil and Motrin contain ibuprofen, which can thin the blood causing bruising.

When receiving Dysport or Botox injections from a professional, the risks of side-effects are pretty minimal. In most cases, potential side effects are limited to mild bruising, swelling, and or redness but a full discussion of possible side effects will occur during your consultation.

The effects of Botox & Dysport are fast, but not immediate. So don’t be alarmed if you still see lines and wrinkles right after. Usually, the effects aren’t noticeable for 3 to 7 days. The full effects kick in after about 2 weeks.

Facial muscle relaxers are an effective, but temporary solution. There are a number of influencing factors, but on average, Botox last 3-6 months. Your first injection doesn’t tend to last as long as later injections.

Dysport lasts a bit longer than Botox and shows results a little sooner. However, they both operate within a similar timeframe.