The Clinic at Sharp Chula Vista

Botox is a neuromodulator (form of botulinum toxin type A) that is injected into targeted treatment areas using an ultra-fine needle. It works by blocking the nerve signals needed for facial muscles to contract. The repetitious contraction of facial muscles is what causes expression lines and wrinkles. Once injected, the neuromodulator relaxes the muscles and decreases their movement to reduce the appearance of lines or wrinkles. Results will gradually appear 3 to 7 days following the injections.

Botox can be used to minimize lines and wrinkles on a number of different facial areas, including the forehead, eye area (crow’s feet), and lip lines. It may also be injected to soften dimpling of the chin. Currently, we do not offer Botox as a medical treatment.

Botox treatments are quick and have minimal discomfort. The treatment requires no anesthesia or recovery time. Many people get Botox treatments during their lunch hour and are able to return to work immediately following their appointment.

The procedure is not considered painful. Most patients report a brief period of discomfort during the injection, which does not persist once the procedure is complete.

It usually takes 3 to 5 days to see the effects of Botox, but each patient experience is different. For some, it may take up to 2 weeks to see the final results.

The results of Botox typically last between 3 to 5 months from the date of injection. Over time, the body metabolizes the Botox, leading to the slow return of muscle movement in the treatment area. Patients can choose to maintain their Botox results for longer periods by undergoing periodic maintenance treatments every 3 to 4 months.

Yes, Botox is an FDA-approved treatment for reversing lines and wrinkles. However, Botox contains albumin, a derivative of human blood, and it is not recommended for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to albumin. Also, patients who have certain neurological diseases should not receive Botox treatments.

Because it is still unclear whether or not Botox toxins can spread to a nursing child through breast milk or impact unborn babies during pregnancy, Botox therapy is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

A week before the treatment, most providers will advise patients to stop consuming alcohol or taking medications or supplements that thin the blood, like aspirin, ibuprofen, gingko biloba or ginseng. This will help minimize bruising after the procedure.

Please review the Good Faith Estimate before your appointment.

Side effects from a Botox treatment may include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness around the injection site, all of which will resolve without intervention after a few days to a week.