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Should you try Botox? So much has been said about it that it’s hard to tell the tall tales from the truth or the fact from the fiction. Below are ten common myths about Botox. To better explain them, we’ll look at each myth, why it exists, and what the facts are. Use the information below, and you’ll have a much better idea if Botox Cosmetic is right for you.

Myth 1: Botox is Not Safe!

Why the myth exists: Botox is derived from a toxin sometimes present in food. It was first discovered in the late 1800s by a Belgian scientist studying food contamination. By the 1970s, scientists began studying the botulinum toxin for medical uses.

The facts: Yes, Botox is derived from the botulinum toxin, which is poisonous when in food. However, when used in the skin, Botox stays in the injection site and does not move around the body. Botox has been approved by the FDA since 1989 to treat eyelid spasms. In 2002 Botox received its first cosmetic approval, and since then, tens of millions of patients have used it.

Myth 2: Botox Causes Your Face to Freeze!

Why the myth exists: When Botox first came out, some doctors overused it. As a result, their patients found certain parts of their faces incapable of moving. Over the years, people have exaggerated this effect for comedic purposes.

The facts: When used in appropriate doses and administered by a licensed plastic surgeon, Botox Cosmetic can lessen the appearance of wrinkles in the forehead and between the eyebrows without eliminating facial expression. The effects of the medicine last about three to four months, so even a proxy done injection is not permanent.

Myth 3: Botox is Addictive

Why the myth exists:  Botox is a temporary treatment. It lasts about three to four months. Not knowing this, others may think a person is addicted because they return on multiple occasions for more treatments. Plus, in the media, there have been public figures who’ve clearly gotten too many plastic surgery procedures.  Often, these people have gotten treatments much more extensive than Botox.

The facts: There is no “high” associated with Botox and no physical addiction. Yes, some people seek plastic surgery for purely emotional reasons. The best reason to receive cosmetic procedures is out the the “want” to look better – not the “need” to fit in or feel good about yourself.

Myth 4: Botox is Painful

Why the myth exists: That’s easy, Botox is an injection. We all dislike needles to some degree. However, sometimes our fear of them outweighs the actual discomfort they cause.

The facts: Have you ever plucked facial hair? If so, you’ve already experienced more facial pain than a Botox injection. There are topical creams to numb the skin, but for many patients, they aren’t necessary. The needle used is very thin (or fine), and it delivers at most a pinching sensation.

Myth 5: If You Stop Botox Injections, Your Facial Wrinkles Will Be Worse Than Ever.

Why the myth exists: Treatments like Botox can produce an effect that is so noticeable, people may suspect that it must be too good to be true. As if getting such improvement must cause damage to your body.

The facts: In reality, Botox has does the opposite.  Instead of causing wrinkles to worsen after treatment termination, doctors believe Botox prevents them. By disconnecting the connection between muscle and skin, Botox lessens the facial movements that cause facial lines. When the treatment wears off, the skin returns to how it looked before.

Myth 6: Botox Only Works on the Face.

Why the myth exists: Botox has been highly publicized for cosmetics and not it’s other FDA-approved uses.

The facts: Although it started as a treatment for the eyelids, Botox is used today in different formulations to treat migraines, urinary incontinence, and excessive sweating.

Myth 7: Botox Gets Rid of All Lines and Wrinkles.

Why the myth exists:  Because it was the first widely known treatment, people mistakenly think it treats any possible wrinkle.

The facts: For areas of the face where muscle movement causes wrinkles, like the forehead, Botox is beneficial. Although it can help with vertical lines above the lips, Botox mostly helps with wrinkles from the eyes going upward. Other fillers like Juvederm can smooth wrinkles around the cheeks and mouth.

Myth 8: It’s Ok to Get Botox From Any Doctor.

Why the myth exists: Most states allow doctors of all specialties to administer Botox. Non-plastic surgeons often do cosmetic treatments to make extra money and will advertise them to their patients.

The facts: When it comes to Botox and other facial injections, the skill of the physician is crucial. Poor results usually come from inexperienced hands. Therefore, you want to work with an experienced, licensed, and board-certified plastic surgeon.

Myth 9: Botox is Only for One Type of Person.

Why the myth exists: Again, because of its publicity, we sometimes think of Botox only for celebrities, women, and the rich.

The facts: In truth, people from all walks of life can and do get Botox Cosmetic. It’s FDA-approved for people 18 yrs and older to treat a variety of facial lines.

Myth 10: Botox is Expensive

Why the myth exists: There are plenty of cosmetic procedures that cost well over $1000. And if we already associate plastic surgery with celebrities and the wealthy, it’s easy to assume that Botox is also expensive.

The facts: Believe it or not, Botox Cosmetic is one of the least expensive cosmetic treatments you can have. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be so popular. It’s also one of the most highly rated procedures on the independent plastic surgery site RealSelf.com. Don’t assume you can’t afford Botox until you’ve spoken to your doctor.

To learn more about Botox and what it can do for you, contact Dr. Chris Livingston’s Houston office today at (281) 501-1812!