PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

It is prudent to follow some simple guidelines before treatment by reducing some possible side effects

associated with the injections; this can make all the difference between a fair result and a great result.

We realize that this is not always possible; however, minimizing these risks is always desirable.

 

• AVOID alcoholic beverages at least 24 hours before treatment (alcohol may thin the blood, increasing the risk of bruising).

 

• AVOID anti-inflammatory/blood thinning medications ideally for 2 weeks before treatment. Medications and supplements such as Aspirin, Vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve, Vioxx, and other NSAIDs are all blood-thinning medications that can increase the risk of bruising or swelling after injections.

 

Schedule the Botox® appointment at least 2 weeks before any special event that may be occurring:

i.e., wedding, vacation, etc.

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POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS​

The guidelines to follow post-treatment have been used for years and are still employed today to

prevent the possible side effects of ptosis (eyelid droop). These measures should minimize the

possibility of ptosis in almost 98% of the cases.

 

No straining, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise for 2-3 hours following treatment because we don’t want

to increase circulation to that area (this washes away the Botox® from where it was injected). It is now

known that it takes the toxin approximately 2 hours to bind itself to the nerve to start its work. This

waiting period continues to be recommended by most practitioners.

 

You must remain upright for four hours following treatment. AVOID manipulation of the area for 3 hours following a treatment (for the same reasons listed above). This includes avoiding facial treatments, such as peels or microdermabrasion, after Botox treatment. Any of these procedures can be performed in the same appointment, provided they are done before the neurotoxin treatment. 

 

Facial exercises in the injected areas are recommended for 1 hour following treatment to stimulate the binding of the toxin to this localized area only. It can take 2-7 days to take full effect, and in some cases up to two weeks. It is recommended that patients contact the office no later than 2 weeks after treatment if the desired effect has not been achieved.

 

Makeup can be applied before leaving the office. Retin-A, Glycolic Acid, Vitamin C, and Kinerase can

be used; however, you must avoid the area treated with Botox® for 24 hours.

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