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Medical cosmetic procedures in Geneva

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Medical cosmetic procedures in Geneva

Precautions after Botox injection

What should you do or avoid after a Botox injection ?

injections de Botox sont devenues un traitement esthétique très populaire pour réduire les wrinkles and expression lines and rejuvenate the face without surgery. Although Botox injections are considered safe and relatively straightforward, it is essential to follow the post-treatment instructions given by your doctor to optimise results and minimise the risk of complications. Whether you're a novice or a regular patient, understanding what you should and shouldn't do after a Botox injection is crucial.
In this article, we'll explain in detail how to care for your skin after Botox injections, what absolutely must be avoided, and the best practices to adopt.

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Why is it important to follow post-Botox instructions ?

Post-treatment instructions after a Botox injection are essential to ensure the product remains in place and works effectively in the targeted muscles. Following best practices can :

  • Prevent the migration of Botox to unintended areas.
  • Minimize the risk of side effects, such as bruising or swelling.
  • Optimize results by ensuring the product works effectively to reduce wrinkles and fine lines

Even though Botox is a non-invasive treatment with minimal downtime, it is essential to follow certain precautions after the injections to avoid undesirable effects and ensure optimal results.

What you should do after a Botox injection

  • Stay upright for the first 4 hours : after a Botox injection, it is recommended to remain upright for at least 4 hours. This allows the product to properly bind to the targeted muscles and reduces the risk of migration to other areas of the face. Avoid lying down, bending over, or performing movements that require lowering the head during this time.
  • Use gentle skincare products : it is important to continue caring for your skin after a Botox injection. Use mild cleansers, fragrance-free moisturizers, and sunscreens to protect your skin.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions : your doctor will provide specific recommendations tailored to your case. Follow these instructions carefully.

Misleading instructions

Some post-treatment advice given by certain doctors should be avoided, as they may cause complications.

  • Apply ice to reduce swelling : applying ice to the treated area causes the product to shift. Other muscles could be affected, resulting in side effects.
  • Move your facial muscles : while it is important not to massage or rub the treated areas, some say it may be helpful to gently move the treated facial muscles, such as frowning, smiling, or raising your eyebrows, for about an hour after the injection. This is thought to help the Botox integrate into the muscles and improve its effectiveness. In reality, such movements may cause the Botox to migrate.
  • Stay well-hydrated : drinking plenty of water is often advised to help the body recover after treatment. Good hydration may help minimize potential side effects such as headaches. In truth, hydration has no impact on the treatment itself, although it is important for overall health.

What you should not do after a Botox injection

  • Do not touch, rub or massage the treated areas : after a Botox injection, it is essential not to touch, rub, or massage the treated areas for at least 24 hours. Touching the area may cause the Botox to migrate to non-targeted muscles, potentially resulting in undesirable outcomes such as facial asymmetry or drooping eyelids.
  • Avoid exercise for 48 hours : physical activity, including running, weightlifting, or any activity that increases blood circulation or involves head movement, should be avoided for at least 48 hours after the treatment.
    An increase in blood circulation could cause the Botox to spread, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of bruising.
    The heat from increased circulation and head movement may also cause Botox migration.
  • No sauna, steam room, or hot baths for 48 hours : hot environments such as saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths should be avoided for at least 48 hours after Botox. Heat may dilate blood vessels and increase the risk of product migration or bruising.
  • Do not consume alcohol for 24 hours : alcohol may increase the risk of bruising and swelling by dilating blood vessels. To minimize these risks, avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your Botox treatment.
  • Do not take anti-inflammatory medication without medical advice : some anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising after Botox injections. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication post-treatment to avoid interactions or adverse effects.
  • Avoid facials and massages for one week : facials, massages, and treatments such as laser, chemical peels or laser peel should be avoided for at least one week after a Botox injection. These treatments may cause inflammation, compromise the results, and cause side effects.
  • Do not wear tight hats or helmets : accessories that put pressure on the treated area, such as helmets or tight hats, should be avoided for 24 hours after the treatment. Excessive pressure could displace the Botox.

 

How long does it take to see results of Botox ?

Botox works gradually to relax the muscles responsible for wrinkles.
Initial results begin to appear within 3 to 5 days after the injection, but full effects are visible after 7 days. A follow-up consultation, including a free touch-up, is scheduled one to three weeks after the initial injection to optimize the result and correct any asymmetries.

How long do the effects of Botox last?

The effects of Botox generally last between 3 and 6 months, depending on the area treated, individual metabolism and the dose used. With regular treatments, the results can sometimes last longer, as the muscles gradually weaken over time. To maintain results, it is advisable to schedule maintenance injections every 5 to 6 months, depending on your needs and aesthetic goals.

What to do in case of side effects after a Botox injection ?

Although rare, some side effects may occur after a Botox injection, such as headaches, swelling, bruising, or slight facial asymmetry. Most of these effects are temporary and disappear within a few days.

Here is what you can do if you experience side effects :

  • Take Arnica for bruising. However, bruises are usually very small and rare.
  • Take analgesics such as paracetamol to relieve headaches, but avoid anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or aspirin unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
  • Consult your doctor if you have concerns or if the side effects persist beyond a few days.

Swelling typically resolves spontaneously within 10 minutes. Any asymmetries are corrected during the follow-up touch-up appointment.

It is crucial to choose an experienced doctor to minimize the risk of complications and achieve optimal results.

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Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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Dr Valeria Romano
Pl. du Molard 5, 1204 Geneva, Switzerland

[email protected]

+41 78 209 02 89

Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 6pm

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