What Can You Expect After the BOTOX® Procedure?

Once you receive BOTOX® neurotoxin treatment, you’ll start to feel the benefits soon, usually within a few days to a couple of weeks after receiving BOTOX®. This relief may last for up to 3 months.

Does the injection hurt?
Many people wonder how the injection is going to feel. You may experience localized pain, tenderness, and/or bruising where you receive the injection. This is normal and usually mild. You should be able to leave your doctor’s office later the same day, since treatments are given right there and usually allow for a short recovery period.

When will BOTOX® start to work?
Once you receive BOTOX® treatment, you’ll start to feel the benefits soon, usually within a few days to a couple of weeks after receiving BOTOX® treatment.

How long do the effects last?
After receiving BOTOX® treatment, relief may last for up to 3 months. You may be able to receive additional BOTOX® treatment as needed. Your doctor will decide if repeat injections can help you. You may receive repeat injections as long as:

• Your condition responds to BOTOX®
• You do not have any allergic reactions to BOTOX® or other significant side effects

Because symptoms can change over time, the amount and duration of relief you feel may vary. Although most people continue to respond to BOTOX®, some people respond less over time. To maintain the best possible response to BOTOX® over time, your doctor will give you the lowest effective dose. Also, he or she will determine the proper time between injections.

It’s a good idea to track your symptoms in a diary. This may help your doctor determine how best to manage your treatment. Also, by noting how your pain, muscle spasms, and posture improve over time, you can judge for yourself how well your treatment is working.

BOTOX® injections require no downtime; you can resume your normal daily activities immediately. You may have headaches for a few hours after the treatment. Take care, though, not to rub or massage the treated areas. This can cause the toxin to migrate to a different area of your face. If this happens, temporary facial weakness or drooping is possible.

You'll notice results within a few days, but the full effect takes about two weeks. Results aren't permanent, however. Once the BOTOX® has taken effect, it takes three to six months for the affected muscles to begin functioning again. So to maintain your look, you need follow-up injections every few months.