With a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips, it’s easy to learn about anything you want after a few searches. This is a double-edged sword, though, as misinformation is even easier to spread. This is true when it comes to treatments like BOTOX, where even though it was discovered in 1897, many people don’t know the truth behind it. Keep reading to debunk five common myths around it.
Myth #1: BOTOX Injections are Painful
You may assume that getting BOTOX will be painful because it is given through a needle. However, it might be way more comfortable than what you’re imagining. Your provider will use the thinnest needle that’s available, so that you may not feel much or a slight pinch. Many people say they hardly feel anything, but some offices can give you a topical anesthetic if you are worried about any discomfort.
Myth #2: BOTOX is Toxic
It’s true that BOTOX is a neurotoxin, and hearing that word might make you question its safety. Thankfully, after decades of research, a safe dosage has been found and is used. In order for it to be toxic, you would need a dose that’s 100 times more than the average amount!
Countless studies by the Food and Drug Administration and other organizations haven’t found any negative effects after long-term use, when it’s administered correctly.
Myth #3: Wrinkles Come Back Worse After Treatment
BOTOX works by paralyzing the muscles in your face that are causing the wrinkles. It’s not permanent, so you can enjoy your results for three to six months before they need to be touched up. If you decide that you want to stop injections, then your wrinkles will return to the way they were. They may look deeper than before, but that’s a natural result of aging instead of the treatment causing it.
Myth #4: Your Face Will Look “Frozen”
Going off the point above, many people assume they will look expressionless because their facial muscles are paralyzed. Thankfully, BOTOX is administered by a skilled professional, ensuring that you can still show a wide range of emotions and avoid having a “frozen face.”
Myth #5: BOTOX is Purely Cosmetic
BOTOX is used to lessen wrinkles and fine lines, but there are other reasons it can be used. It’s effective at helping with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. The toxin can give a temporary solution by limiting the movement of the muscle that’s causing discomfort. During this time, you may find it easier to fix the root cause of the problem!
While you may have believed these myths beforehand, knowing the truth can help you feel better about getting BOTOX! Talking to your provider to get the facts can help you be one step closer to getting the treatment you want to feel more confident.
About the Author
Dr. J. Darrell Steele earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry. After he completed an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency, he became a skilled oral surgeon. You can trust that you get BOTOX results that look great with Dr. Steele, as he has decades of experience studying every bone, muscle, and tissue in and around the mouth! If you have any questions about this treatment, schedule an appointment or call (972) 315-3355.
