Botox
Conveniently located to serve the areas of New Jersey
Botox is an injectable neuromodulator treatment formulated from botulinum toxin that can improve facial aesthetics by temporarily relaxing certain muscles.
Wrinkles and fine lines are a natural occurrence for many people. Every time you smile or frown, the facial muscles you use create fine lines and wrinkles that can make you look tired and older than your true age. While many facial rejuvenation procedures require extensive surgery, some modern treatments can help you achieve a more youthful look without a lengthy procedure. If you are looking to address symptoms such as fine lines or wrinkles, you may be an ideal candidate for Botox.
Dr. Joseph A. Racanelli has been voted by New Jersey Monthly Magazine as one of New Jersey’s Top Doctors in plastic and reconstructive surgery. With locations in Newark, Morristown, and New York City, Dr. Racanelli and his team are here to serve you with high-quality care and personalized treatment.
Contact us online to schedule a personal consultation, or reach us by calling (888) 409-0801.
Contents
About Botox
“Botox” is the brand name for botulinum toxin, a natural substance that blocks nerve signals to muscles. Injecting the Botox formula into certain areas of the face results in muscle relaxation and subsequent wrinkle reduction. Over the years, Botox has become one of the most commonly performed cosmetic treatments throughout the world, primarily because it is an effective way to achieve a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles without the need for surgery. (1) It is also commonly used to treat migraines. (2)
Botox was approved by the FDA for cosmetic procedures in 2002. For adults, Botox injections can address:
- Moderate to severe forehead lines
- Crow’s feet lines (fine lines and wrinkles that form on the outer corners of the eyes)
- Frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar or “11” lines)
- Vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck (platysma bands)
- Excessive sweating
Benefits
Botox is one of the only treatments for forehead wrinkles that address the actual cause of the wrinkle (the muscle) instead of simply masking the lines. Botox provides numerous benefits to patients seeking this treatment, which contributes to its status as the most commonly performed minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in 2023. (3) Some of the many benefits often associated with Botox include:
- Quick Treatment Duration: Botox injection appointments typically do not last longer than 10 to 30 minutes, allowing patients to easily fit appointments into busy schedules.
- Non-Surgical Solution: Botox does not involve surgery, meaning there are no incisions, stitches, or lengthy recovery periods.
- Long-Lasting Results: Effects from Botox typically last for up to 4 months. Some patients see results after anywhere from 3-6 months.
- Minimal Discomfort: Although some people may feel a pinch during the injection, discomfort is generally minimal.
- Prevention of New Wrinkles: Regular Botox treatments can help prevent the development of new facial wrinkles by limiting muscle movement with regular treatments.
- Minimal Downtime: Most individuals return to their regular activities soon after the injection.
- Boosted Self-Confidence: Many patients feel better about their appearance after achieving results with Botox, potentially resulting in increased self-esteem.
Ideal Candidates
Botox appeals to a wide range of potential candidates. In general, ideal candidates for cosmetic Botox often include:
- Those experiencing fine lines or wrinkles on the forehead, near the corners of the eyes, or between the eyebrows.
- Individuals aged 18 and above who are in good overall health.
- Those who have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of Botox.
Ultimately, your eligibility for Botox or additional or alternative procedures offered at Dr. Racanelli’s office will be determined during your personal consultation.
Personal Consultation
The first step in your wrinkle-reduction journey is a personal consultation with Dr. Racanelli and his staff. During this consultation, Dr. Racanelli or a member of his team will discuss your cosmetic goals and address any concerns you may have about the treatment. They will also review your medical history to ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for Botox.
After assessing your needs, your professional will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your expectations. We encourage you to ask any questions about Botox or other cosmetic procedures so that you can feel confident going into your appointment.
Contact Dr. Racanelli’s office to schedule this personal consultation online or call (888) 409-0801.
Preparation
Before receiving Botox injections, it is essential to follow any specific pre-treatment guidelines to ensure optimal results. Patients are advised to arrive at their appointment with a clean face, free of makeup or skincare products. You may also be advised to avoid taking certain medications or supplements as directed by your injector. Some medications and supplements can impact the results of the injection and increase the risk of bruising. In particular, patients should avoid blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before their appointment. You should also refrain from drinking alcohol during the 24 hours before your injection.
Procedure
On the day of your Botox treatment, the process will begin with a discussion to confirm the treatment areas and discuss your desired results. Once confirmed, your injector will cleanse the designated areas. A topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize any discomfort. Your injector will then administer the Botox formula using a fine needle into the specific muscles responsible for wrinkles. Multiple injection points are typically necessary to achieve optimal results. After injecting Botox, your injector may gently massage the area to ensure an even distribution. The entire procedure only takes about 10 to 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient treatment–even for patients with busy schedules!
After Your Treatment
As a simple injection, Botox does not require any extensive recovery period. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately afterward while taking care to exercise certain precautions. Some patients experience mild redness or swelling at the injection sites, but these effects usually resolve quickly. Your injector will provide you with detailed post-treatment instructions, which might include avoiding strenuous activity for 24 hours, remaining upright for several hours after treatment, and refraining from massaging or rubbing the treated areas for some time. Most individuals can return to work and resume normal activities immediately following the procedure as long as their work does not require any intensive physical labor.
Results
After about three or four days, you will begin to see the desired effects of your Botox treatment. However, it can take about 10-14 days for the full results to be visible. Botox results can last anywhere from three to four months, with varying patient experiences. While the Botox treatment works to effectively relax certain muscles, patients can notice a significant reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more refreshed and youthful appearance. Regular follow-up treatments are recommended to retain your desired results and to give Dr. Racanelli a chance to monitor your progress.
Corresponding Treatments
Many patients receiving Botox injections will also receive dermal filler injections. While Botox is effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles, it does not add any volume beneath the skin. A wide variety of dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the face. Some injectables can add volume by stimulating collagen production to enhance the skin, while others promote hydration. At Dr. Racanelli’s practice, we offer Juvederm, Radiesse, Restylane, and other popular dermal fillers for patients looking to enhance their appearance more comprehensively.
Cost of Botox Treatment in New Jersey
The cost of Botox varies depending on the treatment area and individual needs. Dr. Racanelli will provide you with a detailed price estimate during your consultation. Your consultation will also be a good time to discuss the financing options offered at Dr. Racanelli’s office for those who qualify.
Take a moment to schedule your consultation today by submitting our online contact form. If you have any questions, please call any of our offices directly at (888) 409-0801.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Botox safe?
Yes, when administered by a professional injector, Botox is considered to be a safe and effective cosmetic treatment.
Are there any side effects from Botox?
Most individuals experience minimal side effects, such as redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. In rare cases, side effects may include headaches or temporary eyelid drooping. The risk of certain side effects can be minimized by choosing an experienced injector.
How long does the Botox treatment take?
The entire Botox injection process typically lasts no longer than 10 to 30 minutes.
How soon will I notice the results of my Botox injections?
Results generally begin to appear within three to four days after treatment, but it can take 10 to 14 days for the results to become fully apparent.
Can Botox be combined with other treatments?
Yes, many patients choose to combine Botox with dermal fillers for enhanced facial rejuvenation.
References
- Biello A, Oney R, Zhu B. Botulinum Toxin Treatment Of The Upper Face. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK574523/
- Escher CM, Paracka L, Dressler D, Kollewe K. Botulinum toxin in the management of chronic migraine: clinical evidence and experience. Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders. 2016;10(2):127-135. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/1756285616677005
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf