5 Common Questions Before Starting Injectable Neurotoxin Treatments
So, you're contemplating diving into the world of neurotoxin injections. It's only natural that you've got some burning questions brewing. I mean, who wouldn't, right?
After all, we're talking about a medical procedure here. And let's be real, that might stir up a mix of emotions - from unease to sheer curiosity.
And hey, those feelings are totally valid.
Venturing into uncharted territory can stir up nerves. The thought of needles? Yeah, that can send shivers down anyone's spine. And let's not forget, tweaking your aesthetic routine is no small feat.
Sure, you've probably spent some time scouring the internet for answers. But let's face it, the vast sea of information out there can be overwhelming.
Enter the flood of questions, right on cue... 3... 2... 1...Who's serving up the hard facts, and who's just peddling nonsense?
Who's got a vested interest in what they're saying? And who's simply regurgitating blog posts from some obscure skincare clinic in the middle of nowhere, USA?
Well, fear not, because here at Evolus, we're the brains behind Jeuveau® (prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs), your go-to injectable neurotoxin. So yeah, we've got your back (or should I say, your frown lines).
Let us be your guiding light through this maze of questions, easing your mind along the way, and ultimately, smoothing out those moderate to severe frown lines of yours. 😉
Click the links to skip around.
Clickable table of contents👇
Question #1: When should I start getting injections?
Like many things in life, this depends - on you, your aesthetic goals, your current appearance and the conversations you have with your injector.
Despite what you might have read on the Internet, there’s no “set age” to start getting injections. They’ve been approved for adults 18 and older.
Generally, whenever you become concerned about your moderate to severe glabellar lines (those pesky 11 lines between your brows) is a good time to start.
YOU (and your injector) get to decide when (or if) to start neurotoxin treatments. It’s all about what you’re comfortable with.
Question #2: Are injections painful?
It depends. For the majority of people, pain is minimal.
You might feel a slight pinch or prick. Patients report that the pain is typically mild and easily managed.
Before ever getting a needle close to your face, your injector will chat with you about what to expect, your pain tolerance and how you’ll manage discomfort. It’s more than likely your injection will be over quicker than you anticipated.
You may receive a topical anesthetic and/or or ice packs to numb your face before and after the injection. This helps reduce potential pain and for some patients, eliminate it altogether.
After you’ve received your injection, you may notice some tenderness and swelling, but this shouldn’t last long.
Question #3: Once I start getting treated with injectables, am I locked in forever?
Nope! 😅
Your results will last for three to four months (and some folks prefer to go up to 6 months between injections). However, retreatment is necessary to maintain your results.
Depending on how many “units” of treatment you receive and your desired outcome, you and your injector will create an injection schedule that works to keep you looking refreshed, relaxed and ready to take on the world.
If you don’t love your results for any reason, don’t panic. The results of injectable neurotoxins are by nature temporary.
Once the tox wears off, your face will gradually return to how it looked before you started injections.
Exactly how long it takes to get back to your pre-injection look varies from person to person.
Question #4: How do I pick the right injector?
We’re so happy you asked!
This is one of the most important questions.
Because neurotoxin injections are a medical procedure, you’ll want to do your research (search online, talk to friends) to find a qualified injector with experience. Most offer a free consultation before you make the decision to get injected. (Here are 10 Questions to Ask at Your First Injectable Neurotoxin Appointment.)
You already know it’s possible to have too much of a good thing and injectables are no exception. Unless you’re going for a fully-frozen look, you probably want to find an injector who will take a conservative approach. The right injector will adjust the amount of toxin to help you achieve those “Wow, you look amazing!” results — without the risk of “Eek! What’d you do to your face?”
Another thing to look for? Someone who makes you feel calm and cared for.
As with any medical provider, it’s important to choose someone who genuinely listens, connects and communicates with you. Those qualities can be the foundation to a wonderful and trusting relationship (and we’re not just talking about the relationship with your injector).
You deserve to go to a medical professional who will care for you and is experienced with neurotoxins. And luckily, we’ve identified folks who fit the bill! Find a licensed injector near you here.
Keep in mind that this isn’t just about the injector. As a repeat patient, you want to find a specialist with an office and office staff that make you feel just as welcome as your injector does.
Question #5: Will people be able to tell?
Not if you don’t want them to. 😉
This is a big reason why finding an injector who takes a conservative approach (and listens to you) is so important. An excellent injector will help you achieve a natural look that simply makes you look well-rested and relaxed vs. “treated” or “frozen.”
We’ve all seen undesirable results and for some people, the fear of looking frozen is what keeps them from booking their first appointment. For others, the frozen look is what they’re wanting to achieve. And that’s OK, too.
We get it. You still want to look like you.
Luckily, a good injector will have the same goals for your treatment.
Got more Qs? We’ve got your As right here.