Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery

How Does Botox Work?

Wrinkles can be caused by tiny contractions of the muscles throughout the face. As we age, we lose elasticity in our skin, and even small movements in our facial muscles cause these natural creases to be visible. Botox temporarily prevents these muscles from contracting, allowing them to remain in a relaxed state. This keeps the skin from pulling and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and creases.

Botox is a prescription medication used for cosmetic procedures to block the nerve signals that cause the muscles to contract. Small doses can treat and prevent wrinkles while enabling you to maintain a natural appearance.

Meet Dr. Smiley and His Amazing Staff

Dr. Smiley has extensive knowledge regarding facial anatomy and how the muscles and nerves work together, allowing him to develop a precise treatment plan to refresh your appearance. He and his team create a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can feel confident in the care you receive.

The Basics of Botox

Botox injections are a very common cosmetic procedure used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Effects are typically noticeable within 24-48 hours, and the final result will be visible within 3-7 days. Treatment is tailored to target your specific areas of need and can leave you with younger-looking skin. Your body recycles the molecules involved in the neuromuscular process every 3-4 months, and thus, the effects of Botox wain over this time period.

How Does Botox Work, and What is Treatment Like?

Botox temporarily prevents muscles from contracting in areas where wrinkles and creases are most noticeable. It creates a smoother, firmer appearance and keeps you from making facial expressions that may cause wrinkles to form.

Dr. Smiley will consult with you to understand your concerns and goals for treatment, as well as review your medical history. He will observe how your facial muscles move and contract to cause specific lines and wrinkles so that he can determine exactly where to inject Botox and how much is necessary.

What Facial Areas Can Be Treated with Botox?

Forehead Wrinkles

Botox treats the fine lines that stretch across your forehead and become more evident when you furrow your brow or raise your eyebrows. This is the region most commonly and predictably treated with Botox.

Frown Lines

Vertical or horizontal lines may appear between your eyebrows when you frown or scowl. Botox can prevent these muscles from squeezing together as tightly and creating defined lines.

Crow's Feet

Tiny lines may form around the corners of your eyes when you laugh or smile. They spread out like the toes of a crow's feet. Botox reduces their visibility by relaxing the muscles around the eyes.

Under-Eye Lines

Wrinkles develop under the eyes due to loss of collagen and elasticity in the skin. Botox can freeze muscle movement to minimize the appearance of these lines.

Marionette Lines

These are lines that run vertically from the corners of the mouth down to the chin or jawline. They occur naturally with aging, but can be addressed with Botox injections.

How Much Does Botox Cost in Tri-Cities?

The cost of Botox varies from one procedure to the next. The biggest factor is how many units are injected. Dr. Smiley can provide a more specific cost estimate once he has determined where injections are needed.

Botox Injection Process Explained

How Long Does a Botox Injection Session Take?

Botox injections typically take just a few minutes, so your appointment will be relatively short, allowing you to get back to your daily routine. It is a simple procedure that is performed in our Tri-Cities office with minimal preparation and downtime.

How Many Botox Injection Sessions Will I Need?

Most patients find that they need just one Botox injection session to start seeing results. The effects will begin to wear off after a few months, so you may need to have the procedure repeated once or twice a year to continue minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.

What Should I Do in Preparation for my Botox Injection Session?

In general, you do not need to do anything to prepare for Botox. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications before the procedure, so make sure you let Dr. Smiley know about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you take regularly.

What Does a Botox Injection Feel Like? Is it Painful?

Botox is administered using a very thin needle, making it a relatively painless procedure.

What Should I Expect After Each Botox Injection?

You will want to avoid rubbing your face where you received injections so as not to displace the Botox. You will also want to avoid any strenuous activity that elevates your heart rate or blood pressure for the first 24-48 hours. Dr. Smiley will review any specific recommendations to enhance results.

When Should I See Results?

Results typically begin to appear within a few hours after treatment, but it can take several days. The full effect of the Botox will be noticeable within one week.

How Long Will It Last?

Generally, Botox injections last for between four and six months. You will slowly begin to notice more movement occurring in the muscles around your eyes and across your forehead, as the effects fade. You may get follow-up treatment to continue minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Other Things to Consider Before Getting Botox

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of Getting Botox Injections?

There are risks associated with any cosmetic procedure, but Botox is generally safe for most people. You may experience some light bleeding or bruising at the injection site, headache, or eye irritation after treatment. Dr. Smiley can go over any risks and answer questions or concerns during your consultation.

Should I Really Get Botox? Is It Right for Me?

Getting Botox injections is an individual choice. Dr. Smiley can work with you to understand the benefits and risks of the procedure and how it may help you achieve your goals. It is a good idea to seek treatment from a highly trained professional, such as an oral surgeon, who understands facial aesthetics, structure, and how Botox works.

Are There Any Other Alternatives to Achieve the Results I am Looking For?

Dermal fillers are another option that Dr. Smiley offers in addition to Botox injections. Fillers can also help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and refresh your appearance. Compare your options to decide which may be a good fit for you and your aesthetic goals.

Contact Us Today!

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
5 STAR REVIEWS Read Patient Reviews

“When I saw Dr. Smiley he was able to put my dental anxiety at ease. I’ve struggled with this anxiety since childhood, but Dr. Smiley’s bedside manner made me feel comforted and safe. I knew I would be well cared for with him.”

M.S.

Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery Dental Implants & Wisdom Teeth in Richland, WA

Richland | Pasco | Kennewick

Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery is proud to serve patients throughout Richland, Pasco and Kennewick, WA and surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of oral surgery services including dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, tooth extractions, and bone grafting, as well as sedation options to enhance your safety and comfort. Centrally located near Pasco and Kennewick, WA, we are the convenient practice to visit for your wisdom teeth, dental implant and other oral surgery needs.