10 Things You Need to Know Before Getting Botox

Dr Raj Dhillon
By Dr Raj Dhillon

Dr Raj is passionate about improving industry standards and patient safety, alongside his other work commitments he is an Aesthetics Trainer.


Are you considering getting Botox injections? It’s important to know what to expect before going through with any treatment. In this blog post, we’ll cover 10 things you need to know before getting Botox treatment...

  1. Understand What Botox® is

Anti-wrinkle treatments involve injecting a small amount of a purified protein called botulinum toxin or Botox ® into specific muscles to temporarily relax them.

It is commonly used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly in the forehead, frown area, and around the eyes.

It can also be used to treat other medical conditions such as migraines, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and teeth grinding.

Understand What Botox® is
  1. Choose a Medically Qualified Provider

It is essential to choose a Medically qualified provider when getting Botox injections. The UK has a big issue with a lack of regulation in the Medical Aesthetics field with all sorts of rogue practitioners. Look for a provider who is licensed, experienced, and has a good reputation. Avoid providers who offer Botox injections at a lower price than average, as this may be a red flag that they are not using genuine products or are not properly trained.

  1. Discuss Your Goals with Your Provider

Before getting treatment, discuss your goals with your provider. They should advise you on the best treatment plan to achieve your desired results. A skilled clinician should identify and mark the areas that need treatment and cater the right dose for you. Be realistic about your expectations and understand that if administered correctly botox will not completely erase wrinkles or fine lines, but rather help to soften their appearance. The goal should always be to look refreshed but not frozen.

Know What to Expect During the Procedure
  1. Know What to Expect During the Procedure

The Botox injection procedure is relatively quick and straightforward. The provider will clean the treatment area and apply a numbing cream if necessary. They will then inject small units of Botox into specific muscles using a fine needle. The procedure typically takes less than 20 minutes.

  1. Prepare for Possible Side Effects

Like any medical procedure, Botox injections can have side effects. The most common side effects include bruising, and redness at the injection site. 1 in 10 people may also experience headaches or flu-like symptoms after the treatment. These side effects usually subside within 48 hours.

  1. Avoid Certain Medications Before the Procedure

Before getting Botox injections, your provider may advise you to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising at the injection site.

  1. Understand the Cost

The cost of Botox injections varies depending on where you are based and the amount of product/areas being treated. For instance on Harley Street 3 areas is on average between £350-500 whereas in Esher, Surrey its typically £250-350. It is important to understand the cost before going through with the treatment. Botox treatments in the UK are typically charged by the area irrespective of how many units are used,

  1. Know How Long the Results Last

The results of Botox treatments are temporary and typically last 3-4 months. Some people may experience longer-lasting results with repeated treatments. It is important to understand that the effects of Botox injections will wear off over time and that additional treatments will be necessary to maintain the results. Its also important to note if you don’t get further treatments there are no negative effects the muscle activity and subsequent wrinkles return to pre-treatment levels.

  1. Be Honest About Your Medical History

Before getting Botox injections, be sure to disclose your full medical history to your provider. This includes any medications you are taking, allergies you may have, and any medical conditions you may have. This information can help your provider determine if Botox injections are safe for you.

  1. Understand the Risks

While Botox injections are generally safe, there are some risks associated with the treatment. These risks include infection, allergic reactions, and temporary drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow. It is important to discuss these risks with your provider before getting Botox injections. It’s also important to have a follow up appointment especially on your first treatment typically around 2-3 weeks post initial treatment to review the results and for your practitioner to determine if the dose needs tweaking. In conclusion, getting anti-wrinkle treatments using Botox can be a great way to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In the right hands this can be simple, safe, and effective treatment which provides fairly immediate results which is likely why it is the most popular injectable treatment performed.

Understand the Risks

If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together botox, fine lines and wrinkles and hyperhidrosis FAQs just for you.

If you have more questions, you can use the botox, fine lines and wrinkles and hyperhidrosis questions feature to talk to our panel of trained medical experts. 

If you're keen to get started with any of these treatments right away then you're in luck - those clever folks also have a list of trusted, accredited botox, fine lines and wrinkles and hyperhidrosis clinics in your area.

Esher Clinic

Many thanks to the author of this blog, Dr Raj Dhillon.

The Revital Lab is a doctor-led clinic based in Esher, Surrey, specialising in medical aesthetics and wellness treatments. It offers a bespoke holistic approach to optimise both skincare and longevity.

The clinic fully appreciates that most individuals contemplate aesthetic treatments for a significant period before engaging with a clinic. For this reason, it believes that each patient deserves a personalised approach to understand their story and expectations.

Call Revital Lab on 0137 261 3080 or visit the Revital Lab website.


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