Frequently Asked Questions

Injectables refer to treatments that are administered through injections. They are commonly used in cosmetic dermatology and medicine for a variety of purposes such as reducing wrinkles, enhancing facial features. 

There are two main categories of cosmetic injectables: 

Botulinum Toxin (e.g., Botox, Dysport): These relax muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the eyes, forehead, and mouth. 

Dermal Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane): These add volume to areas such as lips, cheeks, and under-eye hollows or smooth out deeper wrinkles and folds. 

Botox (and similar products like Dysport) temporarily paralyze or relax the muscles in the treated area by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines for a smoother look.

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, or enhance facial contours. Most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, which helps the skin stay hydrated and plump. 

• Botox: Results typically last between 3 to 6 months. 

• Dermal Fillers: Depending on the product used, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. 

The injections may cause mild discomfort, but most treatments are quick, and any pain is generally minimal. Some injectables come with added anesthetics, or your practitioner can apply a numbing cream to the treatment area. 

Common side effects include mild redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within a few days. In rare cases, more serious side effects like infection, allergic reactions, vascular occlusion, blindness, and stroke may occur. 

Most injectable treatments take between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated and the type of injectable.

Most require minimal downtime. Some patients may experience mild bruising or swelling, but most can resume normal activities 24-48hours after treatment. 

• Avoid blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) and supplements like fish oil or vitamin E for a week before treatment to minimize bruising. 

• Avoid alcohol consumption 24 hours before your appointment. 

• Make sure your skin is clean and free of makeup on the day of treatment.

 Botox: Results usually begin to appear within 3 to 5 days, with full effects visible in about 2 weeks. 

Dermal Fillers: Results are often immediate, but some mild swelling may mask the final outcome for a few days. 

• • Botox: Botox effects wear off naturally over time, so the muscle relaxation is temporary and cannot be reversed immediately. 

• • Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: These fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you are unhappy with the results.

​Good candidates are generally healthy individuals who are looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or restore facial volume. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with certain neuromuscular disorders may not be suitable for Botox and dermal filler treatments.

​Costs vary based on the type of injectable, the number of areas treated, and the practitioner. Botox typically costs per unit, while dermal fillers are priced per syringe. It’s important to consult with your provider for specific pricing.

​Yes, injectables can often be combined with other cosmetic procedures like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments to enhance overall results. Your provider can recommend a customized treatment plan based on your goals.

​It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced medical professional, who has experience with injectables. Look for reviews, ask for before-and-after photos, and ensure that the provider uses FDA-approved products.

It’s generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment to reduce the risk of swelling or bruising. After that, normal activities can usually be resumed unless instructed otherwise by your provider. 

Botox is a muscle relaxer that smooths wrinkles caused by facial expressions, such as crow’s feet or forehead lines. Dermal fillers are used to add volume to areas with sagging skin or deep wrinkles, like the cheeks or nasolabial folds.