The cosmetic surgery industry is split into two categories: surgical procedures and minimally invasive treatments. The first category covers everything from liposuction and breast implants to facelifts and fat transfers. The second category includes injectables and other skin-related treatments.

In the second category, Botox cosmetic is king. It accounts for approximately half of all minimally invasive procedures every year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Since the year 2000, Botox has grown by more than 700 percent.

The popularity is well deserved. The procedure is FDA approved for the treatment of severe frown lines and crow’s feet. It very literally reverses part of the aging process.

Despite the explosive growth for the procedure, most people still don’t know much about it. That’s where we can help. Below, you’ll find the answers to several frequently asked questions about Botox cosmetic.

We’d also encourage you to contact us in order to arrange a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in New York. We can help you determine whether or not Botox is right for you. If you have needs that the procedure won’t meet, we can also suggest other injectables that might better align with your goals.

To learn more about Shafer Plastic Surgery, call our New York office today at 212.888.7770.

Will it prevent wrinkles?

Botox is designed to eliminate the appearance of wrinkles on various areas of the face. You develop wrinkles because several small facial muscles contract and move many times per day, which eventually creates a crease along the muscle.

Botox will slow those movements to ease the crease, therefore softening the wrinkles. That said, you won’t need to get Botox until you have wrinkles to treat, because there is no evidence that it can prevent wrinkles from forming.

Will injectables affect my facial expressions?

This is a common concern among patients, because the media tends to sensationalize the facts, making it seem as though Botox will permanently freeze you face. Allure explains that Botox can temporarily affect a person’s eyebrows or eyelids.

This is why it is so important to find an experienced surgeon who knows exactly how much of the substance to use. It’s also worth looking for a surgeon who does everything possible to minimize the risk.

For instance, we use the finest needles possible to ensure you get the results you want.

Will my face hurt after the treatment?

Botox can cause minor discomfort, which generally subsides very quickly. Some surgeons will offer a topical anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Most patients don’t report any adverse sensations during the procedure.

There is a slight chance of bruising around the injection site, but it quickly dissipates. The benefit of injectables over more invasive procedures, such as facelifts, is that any adverse results are only temporary.

Side effects are rare and almost never last for more than two weeks. However, the results will last much longer than that.

If you’re curious about Botox in New York, don’t hesitate to call us. At Shafer Plastic Surgery, we are here to help, and we’re happy to sit down with you and address any concerns you might have.

To schedule a consultation, please call 212.888.7770.