Botox Treatment, A to Z: A Dermatologist Answers

Many people search for trustworthy insights about Botox injections, how they work, what results to expect, and whether the procedure is safe or not. Therefore, to help you make an informed and confident decision, this guide answers the most common questions patients have about Botox injection treatment, wrinkle-relaxing procedures, and other injectable aesthetic options.

Hello, I’m Dr Cho Seong-jun, Director of Reberry Clinic Incheon Airport Branch. With years of experience in aesthetic medicine and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, I’ve treated countless patients seeking natural and refined results. 

Drawing from my clinical background, I’ll provide accurate, easy-to-understand explanations about Botox, covering everything from how it works to its benefits, longevity, side effects, and important aftercare guidelines.

▲What is Botox?

Botox is a minimally invasive injection treatment that targets underlying muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles to smooth and refresh your appearance. This treatment procedure involves precisely injecting purified botulinum toxin (type A) into specific areas of your skin. 

This purified toxin temporarily blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract with every facial expression. So when the muscle is paralyzed, it eventually reduces the creasing of the skin. Originally used for therapeutic purposes, it is now widely used in the cosmetic field to improve expression wrinkles and reduce muscle volume.

▲What are the advantages of Botox Injection Treatment?

Botox injections provide several benefits that other dermatological treatments may not. The biggest advantage of Botox is that it’s a quick, minimally invasive treatment with no incisions, scarring, or lengthy downtime, making it a convenient alternative to surgical options. 

It not only smooths existing wrinkles but also helps prevent deeper lines from forming while keeping the results natural-looking. Beyond aesthetics, Botox also treats migraines, excessive sweating, TMJ disorders, and various muscle-related conditions. And because the procedure takes only a few minutes, you can resume your routine right away.

▲How Long Does it Take to See Results from Botox?

The effects of Botox do not appear immediately after the treatment procedure. While muscle relaxation is typically felt after 3-4 days of the procedure, it becomes noticeable at the end of the first week. The second week is the peak effect period as the results become the most visible.

▲How Long Does Botox Last?

These results generally last up to 3-4 months, depending upon how your muscles react. For treatments aimed at muscle reduction, like the square jaw or trapezius, the results often last a bit longer, usually 4 to 6 months. Keep in mind that longevity can vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as your skin type, muscle strength, metabolism, and overall lifestyle habits.

▲How much does Botox cost?

Botox costs vary depending on the treatment area (forehead, glabella, eye area, square jaw, etc.), the required dosage (units), and the type of product used (domestic/imported). The most accurate cost is determined after a consultation with a medical professional to develop a treatment plan.

For further information, please book a consultation with our doctor.

▲What precautions should I take after a Botox Treatment?

To get the optimal results of Botox injection treatments, you need to take a few post-procedure precautions. Right after your wrinkle-relaxing injections, avoid putting pressure on the treated areas, no rubbing, massaging, or leaning on the face, as this can cause the botulinum toxin to spread to unintended muscles. You should also stay away from heat-related activities like saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, or strenuous workouts for several days, since elevated heat can increase blood flow and reduce the effectiveness of your Botox results.

In addition, it’s best to avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 3 days to 1 week after your Botox procedure. Alcohol can increase the risk of bruising and swelling, while smoking may trigger inflammation and slow down recovery. Giving your body this short break helps the treatment settle properly, ensuring smoother, longer-lasting results.

▲Can I lie down immediately after the procedure?

In the past, due to concerns about medication spread, patients were advised not to lie down for 3-4 hours after the procedure. However, recent studies have shown that lying down immediately after the procedure does not significantly affect the effectiveness or side effects. However, it is safest to follow the instructions of your healthcare professional.

▲Can I get Botox and Filler Injections together?

Yes, you can. Botox injection relaxes muscles to smooth expression wrinkles, while fillers restore volume to sunken areas. For example, for deep forehead wrinkles, Botox can be used to control muscle movement, while fillers can fill in the hollows for a more complete facial rejuvenation effect.

▲What are the Side Effects of Botox Injections?

While Botox is a relatively safe procedure, it can rarely cause bruising, swelling, and mild headaches at the injection site. Additionally, if the injection is not placed accurately or the product is not genuine, it can lead to drooping eyelids (ptosis), facial asymmetry and other neurological issues. Therefore, it’s important to have the correct dosage of genuine Botulinum Toxin and to receive treatment from an experienced medical professional with a deep understanding of the anatomy of the affected area.

Learn How Botox Affects Your Brain.

▲Are there people who should not receive Botox Injections?

Of course. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those allergic to botulinum toxin are recommended to avoid Botox injections. People who have neuromuscular disorders also should not receive Botox injections, as it can exacerbate their existing muscle weakness.

▲Which is better for improving wrinkles, Botox or a lifting laser?

Botox and lifting laser treatments work in different ways, while each of them can be ideal depending on the cause and depth of wrinkles. Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles, making it perfect for improving dynamic wrinkles that occur when you move.

On the other hand, lifting lasers like Ulthera and Thermage deliver heat energy to the dermis layers of the skin, stimulating collagen regeneration and tightening the skin. Lifting lasers are more suitable for improving wrinkles and loss of elasticity caused by sagging skin. 

Therefore, rather than saying which is better, you’d better acknowledge the cause of wrinkle formation. So before deciding to have a treatment, it is always a smart and safe move to consult a highly qualified and experienced dermatologist.

▲What other injectable treatments are available besides Botox?

Besides Botox, there are other injection treatments too, which are used for different dermatological purposes and aesthetic goals.

Filler Injections: Filler Injection treatments use ingredients such as hyaluronic acid (HA) to add volume to sunken areas of different parts, such as the forehead, nasolabial folds, lips and more. 

Skin Booster Injections: Skin Boosters directly inject effective ingredients like Rejuran, Exosome, and Juvelook into the skin in order to improve skin texture, hydrate, and regenerate collagen.

Contour Injection: The facial contouring injection procedures use lipolytic ingredients to help reduce unwanted fat. They eventually reshape and improve facial proportions, such as double chins and cheek fat. 

Conclusion

Botox is a procedure that helps you achieve satisfactory cosmetic improvements in a short period of time. However, for safe and natural-looking results, a thorough consultation with a doctor before treatment is essential to develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

From Cho Seong-jun, Director of Reberry Clinic Incheon Airport.