At Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa, Botox is a neuromodulator (form of botulinum toxin type A) that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It works by blocking the nerve signals needed for facial muscles to contract. It’s the repetitious contraction of facial muscles that causes expression lines and wrinkles. Once injected, the neuromodulator relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles in the area. You will see your results gradually over 3-7 days following injection.

Our experts at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa use injectables to address lines and wrinkles on a number of different facial areas, including the forehead, eye area (crow’s feet), and lip lines. It may be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Injectables can also be injected into the muscles of the jaw to help alleviate pain from teeth grinding or TMJ or for a jaw slimming effect. Some of these treatment areas may be considered off-label.

Injectable treatments at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa are quick with minimal discomfort. The treatment requires no anesthesia or recovery time. Many people get injectables during their lunch hours and are able to return to work right after their appointment.

The procedure is not considered painful. Most patients at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa report a brief period of discomfort during the injection, which does not persist once the procedure is complete.

While the experience of each patient may differ, it usually takes 3-5 days to see the effects of injectables from treatments at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa. For some, it may take up to 2 weeks to realize the final effects.

The results of injectables from Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa typically last between 3-5 months from the date of injection. Over time the body metabolizes the Botox, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area. Patients can choose to maintain their injectable results for longer periods by undergoing periodic maintenance treatments every 3-4 months with us.

Some patients may wonder if they are ‘too young’ or ‘too old’ to try injectables at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa. There is no right or wrong age to start using injectables. Patients should be evaluated and receive a consult by one of our medical professionals prior to treatment. Many millennials are starting to use injectables in their twenties when they first start to notice lines and wrinkles or as a preventative measure.

Yes, Botox is an FDA approved treatment for reversing lines and wrinkles. However, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological diseases should not receive injectable treatments at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa.

A week before your treatment at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa, our physicians will advise patients to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood like aspirin, ibuprofen, Gingko Biloba, or Ginseng. This will help minimize bruising after the procedure.

Side effects from an injectable treatment at Serene Skin and Wellness Medspa may include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will resolve without intervention after a few days to a week.

• Avoid blood thinners: Refrain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning medications for a period before the procedure (typically 72 hours to a week) to reduce the risk of bruising.
• Alcohol avoidance: Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before the procedure, as it can also increase the risk of bruising.
• Topical irritants: Discontinue use of topical products like retinoids or acids for a few days before treatment, as they can irritate the skin.
• Cold sore history: Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores, as they may prescribe antiviral medication beforehand.
• Vaccinations and dental work: Avoid dental work, vaccinations, and other invasive procedures for a specified period (typically 2 weeks) before and after filler injections.
• Post-Care Instructions: Avoid touching the treated area: Refrain from touching or massaging the treated area for a period (typically 4-6 hours, or as directed) to prevent filler migration.
• Ice packs: Apply ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) to the treated area for 15-20 minutes at a time, intermittently, to minimize swelling and bruising.
• Elevated head position: Sleep with your head elevated (on your back) for a few days to help reduce swelling.
• Avoid strenuous activity and heat: Refrain from strenuous exercise, hot showers, saunas, and sun exposure for a period (typically 24-72 hours) to minimize swelling and bruising.
• Makeup application: Avoid applying makeup or other skincare products to the treated area for a day or two, or until any redness or swelling has subsided.
• Pain relief: Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief if needed. Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin) as they can increase bleeding and bruising.
• Signs of infection: Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or blistering, and contact your provider immediately if they occur.
• Follow-up appointments: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your provider to assess the results and address any concerns.