Neuromodulation

What Is Botox® or Dysport® ?

Both Botox® or Dysport® are neurotoxin derived from the Clostridium Botulinum bacteria. The difference between the two types of BotulinumtoxinA is very subtle due to the difference in the subunits that make up the neurotoxin protein complex. Both types of injections work by temporarily weakening over active muscles which results in reduction in muscular contractions.  these muscles. This in turn results in a reduction of skin folding movement which creates rhytids commonly known as wrinkles in the skin. This treatment can take up to 2 weeks for full effect. Botox will gradually take effect over 7-10 days with optimum result at 2 weeks.  If this is your first Botox injection, we recommend scheduling a follow up appointment 2 weeks after your injections.

What to Expect?

The treated area is pain free for the first several hours after the treatment. This is normal; however, after the first 24 hours the area may become painful and slightly swollen due to micro bruising. You may have redness and/or skin bumps over the injection sites.  Although rare, infection at the treatment site is always possible. Some individuals experience a mild frontal headache due to the injections. This can be treated with increased hydration and one dose of 500 mg of over the counter acetaminophen.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

1. If you have a special event or vacation coming up, please keep in mind that you may want to schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks in advance.
2. It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, Motrin, Ginkgo Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary physician prior to discontinuing any medications.
3. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods, and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. (All of these factors may increase risk of bruising and swelling).
4. If you develop a cold / flu, cold sore, blemish, or rash, etc. in the area to be treated prior to your appointment, we recommend that you please reschedule your appointment until it resolves.
5. It is recommended to discontinue Retin-A two (2-3) days before treatment to avoid any increased redness and irritation.
6. It is recommended that you wait at least 2 weeks to have botulinum toxin treatments performed if you have previously had cosmetic treatments with laser, ultrasound, peels, facials or microdermabrasion.

Post-Treatment Instructions

1. Do NOT lie head down on your face or go for a massage therapy appointment that will compress your face until at least 6 hours after treatment. 
2. Avoid any NSAIDS use for treating headaches or period cramps (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin etc) at least 5 days before and up to 5 days after treatment. These medications tend to thin your blood by deactivating your platelets and increase chances of slight bleeding and bruising.
3. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods, and cigarettes 24-48 hours after your treatment. These items may contribute to increased swelling or irritation.
4. Avoid the use of Retin-A or similar products (ex. Kinerase, Tazarac) 2 days after treatment to avoid increased irritation or redness.
5. Avoid cosmetic treatments such as laser, ultrasound, peels, facials or microdermabrasion for 2 weeks after treatment with Dysport® or Botox®.
6. Try to avoid wearing makeup until the day after treatment. Earlier use may cause pustules. If you must wear makeup we recommend a good quality mineral makeup for the face.
7. Please report to your provider if any increased pain, increased swelling, redness, blisters, or itching immediately, should it occur following your treatment.
8. The treatment may take 2-10 days to take full effect. It is recommended that the touchup, if needed, be done no later than 2 weeks after the initial treatment.
9. Avoid wearing hats or headbands after treatment.