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Aesthetics · Botox

Botox FAQ: Expert Guide to Results, Safety & Cost

50 questions answered by our licensed providers — from your first consultation to long-term maintenance. Medically reviewed January 2026.

Understanding Botox — The Basics
How does Botox work to reduce wrinkles?

Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that tell facial muscles to contract. When those signals are interrupted, the targeted muscles relax and the overlying skin stays smooth instead of folding into wrinkles. It works on dynamic wrinkles — lines formed by expression — not on static wrinkles caused by volume loss.

What is the difference between Botox, Jeuveau, and Xeomin?

All three are FDA-approved botulinum toxin type A products, and we offer all three. Botox (Allergan/AbbVie) is the original and most studied. Jeuveau (Evolus) is made only for aesthetic use. Xeomin (Merz) is free of accessory proteins and is sometimes used for patients who have developed resistance to Botox. Your provider recommends the right product for your anatomy at your free consultation.

Is Botox the same as dermal filler?

No — completely different treatments. Botox relaxes muscles to smooth dynamic wrinkles. Dermal fillers add volume to areas that have lost fullness. Many patients benefit from both.

What age should you start getting Botox?

There’s no universal answer. Many patients in their late 20s and early 30s use Botox preventively. Botox is FDA-approved for adults 18+. Your provider assesses your facial dynamics, skin condition, and goals — not your age.

Can Botox be used for medical conditions beyond wrinkles?

Yes. FDA-approved medical applications include chronic migraine prevention, overactive bladder, cervical dystonia, and hyperhidrosis. At Tactus Health we treat underarm hyperhidrosis and masseter Botox for TMJ-related jaw tension.

Will Botox make my face look frozen or expressionless?

The “frozen” look comes from overdosing or incorrect placement — not from Botox itself. Our approach is conservative: soften, not eliminate. Every treatment includes a complimentary 2-week follow-up to verify natural results.

Does Botox prevent wrinkles from forming?

Yes — by preventing repetitive muscle contractions that crease skin over time, Botox slows the formation of permanent static wrinkles. Patients who start in their late 20s or early 30s often maintain significantly smoother skin by their 40s.

Can men get Botox?

Absolutely. Men now account for approximately 10% of all Botox treatments. Men typically require higher doses due to stronger facial musculature. Tactus Health treats male patients with a focus on maintaining a natural, masculine appearance.

Before Your Appointment
Am I a good candidate for Botox?

Most healthy adults 18+ with dynamic wrinkles are good candidates. Botox is not appropriate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have certain neuromuscular disorders, or have a known allergy to botulinum toxin. The best way to confirm candidacy is a free consultation with our licensed provider.

What should I avoid before my Botox appointment?

Avoid blood-thinning medications (ibuprofen, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) for 5-7 days prior, alcohol for 24 hours, and retinoids for 2 days. Come with a clean face. A complete pre-care sheet is provided at your consultation.

Can I get Botox while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. Botox is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is a firm contraindication due to insufficient safety data.

Do I need a consultation before getting Botox?

Yes — and at Tactus Health it’s free with no obligation. This is where your provider maps your facial anatomy, identifies the specific muscles driving your concerns, and determines appropriate dosing.

Will Botox work on all types of wrinkles?

Botox works best on dynamic wrinkles — lines formed by expression. It has little effect on static wrinkles caused by volume loss, which are better addressed with fillers or resurfacing. Your provider will assess and recommend the right approach.

How many units of Botox will I need?

General ranges: forehead (10-20 units), frown lines (15-25 units), crow’s feet (10-12 units per side). Most patients treating 2-3 areas use 30-55 units. Tactus Health has a $150 visit minimum. Exact count determined at your free consultation.

During Your Treatment
Does Botox hurt during the injection?

Most patients describe it as a brief pinch lasting a second per injection point. We use 30-32 gauge ultra-fine needles. Most patients find it far less uncomfortable than expected. Topical numbing cream is available.

How long does a Botox appointment take?

First appointments run 45-60 minutes including consultation and treatment. Return appointments take 20-30 minutes. The injection portion is only 10-15 minutes. Many patients come in on their lunch break.

Does Botox cause bleeding or bruising?

Minor bruising occurs in roughly 10-25% of patients. Any bruising is typically small, resolves within a few days, and can be covered with makeup immediately after treatment.

What happens during a Botox treatment step by step?

1. Your face is cleansed and your provider marks injection points based on your anatomy. 2. Topical numbing cream applied if desired. 3. Injections administered using ultra-fine needles. 4. Light pressure applied after each injection. 5. You review aftercare and schedule your complimentary 2-week follow-up. Zero downtime.

Can I get Botox and filler at the same appointment?

Yes — combination appointments are common and efficient. Your provider will advise whether combination treatment makes sense for your goals during your consultation.

Aftercare & Results

The 4-Hour Rule: Don’t lie down flat or rub/massage your face for at least 4 hours after Botox. This keeps the product exactly where it was placed and prevents migration.

How long does it take to see Botox results?

Subtle changes begin in 3-5 days. Full results develop by day 10-14. Do not judge your results before the 2-week mark.

How soon can I exercise after Botox?

Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours. Light walking is fine. After 24 hours, return to full activity.

Can I wear makeup after Botox?

Yes — immediately after treatment. Just avoid pressing the treated areas for the first 4 hours.

What if Botox doesn’t work after 2 weeks?

That’s exactly what your included 2-week follow-up is for. If results are uneven or insufficient, your provider can assess and correct at no additional charge. If true resistance is confirmed, Xeomin will be discussed as an alternative.

Can I drink alcohol after Botox?

Avoid alcohol for 24 hours. After that, no restrictions.

Can I go in the sun or sauna after Botox?

Avoid prolonged sun exposure, saunas, and hot tubs for 24-48 hours. After 48 hours, no restrictions — though daily SPF is always recommended.

Safety & Side Effects
Seek Emergency Care Immediately If You Experience:
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe muscle weakness beyond the treatment area
  • Vision changes or double vision
  • Signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling of face or throat
  • Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
What are the most common Botox side effects?

Minor bruising or swelling at injection sites, temporary headache, and redness. These are mild and temporary.

Can Botox cause a droopy eyelid (ptosis)?

Eyelid ptosis is rare (less than 1% with experienced providers) and temporary — typically resolving within 2-6 weeks. Risk is minimized by correct technique and following post-treatment care.

Can your body become resistant to Botox?

True resistance is rare — estimated at less than 1% of cosmetic patients. If results seem to diminish over time, underdosing is far more likely. Xeomin can be an option if confirmed resistance occurs.

Is it possible to be allergic to Botox?

Allergic reactions are possible but extremely rare. Your provider reviews your full allergy history during your consultation. Signs of reaction require immediate emergency care.

Cost, Maintenance & Long-Term Results
Treatment AreaTypical UnitsEstimated cost at $12/unit
Forehead lines10-20 units$120-$240
Frown lines (“11s”)15-25 units$180-$300
Crow’s feet (both sides)10-24 units$120-$288
Full upper face35-60 units$420-$720
Masseter / TMJ (per side)20-30 units$240-$360
Lip flip4-6 units$48-$72
Hyperhidrosis (underarms)50-100 units$600-$1,200

$150 minimum per visit, so a single small area is billed at $150. Exact unit count determined at your free consultation.

How long does Botox last?

Typically 3-4 months for most facial areas. Lip flips last 6-8 weeks. Hyperhidrosis treatment lasts 6-12 months. Masseter Botox lasts 4-6 months. Duration tends to increase with consistent use.

What happens if I stop getting Botox?

Muscles gradually return to full activity and wrinkles reappear — but you won’t look worse than before. There is no rebound effect and no dependency.

Can I use Allē points for Botox?

Yes. We accept Allē, Allergan’s rewards program, so eligible rewards can be redeemed toward Botox, subject to program terms. You do not need a paid Tactus membership to get our published per-unit prices.

How often should I get Botox to maintain results?

Most patients come in every 3-4 months for the first year, then may stretch to every 4-5 months as muscles condition. Treat at the first sign of returning movement rather than waiting until lines have fully returned.

Can I get Botox before a wedding or special event?

Yes — book 10-14 days before the event so you are at full results and any injection-site marks have resolved. Don’t treat within 3-4 days of a major event.

What makes Botox at Tactus Health different?

Every injection is performed by a licensed medical provider, and our clinicians keep a record of your dosing from visit to visit. We include a complimentary 2-week follow-up with every treatment, use only authentic Allergan Botox and FDA-approved neurotoxins, and price transparently per unit with no hidden fees.

About the Author
Dr. Ashar N., DNP — Botox specialist Sugar Hill GA
Medical Author & Reviewer
Dr. Ashar N., DNP, APRN
Board-Certified · FNP-C, PMHNP-BC · Medical Director, Tactus Health · 10+ Years

This content was developed and medically reviewed by our medical team N., DNP, APRN. Our medical team performs all injectable treatments at Tactus Health ensuring continuity of care and results tailored to each patient’s unique facial anatomy. Reviewed January 2026 against FDA labeling, peer-reviewed clinical research, and manufacturer prescribing information.

Sugar Hill, GA · Board-Certified Provider

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References
  • U.S. Food & Drug Administration. BOTOX Cosmetic — FDA Drug Safety Information. fda.gov
  • Allergan/AbbVie. BOTOX Cosmetic Prescribing Information. allergan.com
  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2023 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. plasticsurgery.org
  • American Academy of Dermatology. Botulinum toxin injections: FAQs. aad.org

Educational information only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Botox is a prescription medication. Medical evaluation required. Individual results vary. View Important Safety Information.

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