Before Botox: Top 5 Questions to Ask
Writing about Botox is like introducing the president of the United States: you could easily start by saying you would like to introduce a person (or substance, in this case) that needs no introduction.
With the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reporting 2,464,123 Botox treatments for 2008, many more people, encouraged by word-of-mouth are willing to see a plastic surgeon about having Botox injections.
But, for a first time Botox user, what questions should you ask your surgeon?
Here’s a starter list:
- How long does Botox last?
Most plastic surgeons will tell you three to six months.
- Where is Botox used?
To remove crow’s feet, forehead lines and bands on the neck.
- How does it work?
Botox restricts the muscle action that causes wrinkles or facial creases.
- How much does it cost?
The ASAPS says $600 but depending on where you live, Botox is often available for $350 to $500.
- What chemistry is going on under the skin?
Botox contains a purified substance that temporarily blocks the signals from the brain to the muscles that causes wrinkles and folds that to show in older facial skin.
Although everybody seems to offer Botox, here are some questions to ask to find a plastic surgeon who really knows what he or she is doing:
- May I see your Botox before and after pictures?
- How many of Botox injections have you done?
- Who does the actual injection, you or another staff member?
- If another staff member, what are his/her qualifications?
- Where is the procedure done?
The president of the American Society for Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) John Canady, M.D., says you should also ask yourself a question:
- Am I basing my decision on credentials of the medical professional and not the price?
“While less expensive procedures seem more desirable when money is tight, cheaper is not better if the procedure is done by somebody who is unqualified or not properly supervised,” says Dr. Canady.
admin @ March 30, 2009