Your cart is currently empty!
Is Botox Worth It? A First-Timer’s Experience
I used to be baffled by the idea of women willingly injecting what essentially amounts to poison into their faces. Why not embrace aging like a champ? But then, I hit the big 3-4. After snapping a selfie with my kids, all I could focus on was the deep wrinkle glaring back at me from between my brows.
I’d love to say I conducted extensive research before considering Botox, but that would be a fib. During a routine checkup, I spotted a poster for Dysport, a Botox alternative, in my doctor’s office. We chatted briefly about life, and curiosity got the better of me—I asked her about it.
I was a bundle of nerves at the thought of paralyzing my face. After all, I have three kids who need to see my expression of displeasure when they misbehave! So I left without scheduling an appointment. But a few weeks later, I found myself dialing back to book one. The anxiety kicked in again: What if I ended up looking like a crazy jack-o-lantern? What if she overdid it or didn’t do enough? Would my coworkers start to suspect my little secret? And most importantly—how much would it hurt?
Botox Injection Day
On the day of my appointment, I was a nervous wreck. I even took half a Xanax to calm my jitters. I concocted a flimsy excuse to my boss about a doctor’s visit (partially true) for a cough I had (okay, a little fib there).
Sitting in the waiting room, I tried to distract myself by scrolling through Facebook. After a few posts of cute puppies and adorable babies, my name was called. As I walked back with the nurse, I blurted out, “But I’m here for [whispering] Botox!” She smiled but still made me step on the scale. I asked if she had ever tried it, and she nodded. I inquired about the pain level, and she said yes, it does hurt. I asked about the numbing cream on my forehead, and she nonchalantly replied that it wouldn’t help much.
Finally, Dr. Lisa arrived and took about 15 minutes explaining the process (it works by paralyzing the muscles), where she’d inject (five spots: one between my eyes and two above each brow), and what to expect (not much immediately, but a smoother forehead in about two weeks).
Then came the moment of truth. With a syringe in hand, she asked if I was ready. I was gripping the armrests like my life depended on it. “Squint,” she instructed. I did, and the first injection went in. I wish I could say it didn’t hurt, but it did—like a deep muscle shot right in the face. The medicine stung as it went in. Thankfully, Dr. Lisa was quick. After a few more commands to squint and raise my brows, she was done. Total time? About 30 seconds of pain, but still only 30 seconds.
She handed me a mirror and reminded me that it would take about 14 days for the final results. I headed back to work with a throbbing headache, just as the nurse had warned me.
1 Day Post-Botox Injection
The next morning, I jumped out of bed, racing to the bathroom mirror. Is my forehead smooth yet? Did I wake up looking like my 20-year-old self? Nope.
2 Days Post-Botox Injection
Alarm goes off, and I’m back at the mirror. I can feel my face is harder to move, so I check myself out. The line between my eyes is a tad less pronounced. Makeup application is a challenge since I can’t fully raise my eyebrows. The headache makes a comeback, prompting me to Google “botox headache.” Apparently, less than 2% of people suffer from lingering headaches. Fingers crossed it’s just a phase.
3 Days Post-Botox Injection
Putting on makeup is slightly easier than before, but it feels like there’s a line of cement across my forehead. That night, while watching TV with my husband (who still has no clue), I feel like I look bug-eyed. My head is pounding again, making me question my choices.
5 Days Post-Botox Injection
I’m starting to feel good about my decision! My eyebrows have a nice arch, and I’m strutting around with confidence.
7 Days Post-Botox Injection
Still feeling good, but I worry that the smooth center of my forehead is just pushing the wrinkles to the sides. Thankfully, I still have enough movement to not feel like a frozen statue.
14 Days Post-Botox Injection
I’m loving it! My forehead looks smooth, and the wrinkles seem to have shifted rather than disappeared, but I’m content. My face isn’t frozen, so my kids can still tell when I’m annoyed.
The Verdict: Is Botox Worth It?
It took a few days for my face to adjust and for the Botox to settle in. Once it did, I was thrilled with the results and definitely plan on doing it again.
Frequently Asked Questions for Botox Newbies
Did it hurt?
Yes, it did, but it was brief—like a quick bee sting smack in the middle of your eyes.
How much did it cost?
Prices vary widely, typically ranging from $200 to $500. I paid about $200.
Where did you get it done?
I had mine done at my doctor’s office, but dermatologists and even some spas perform the procedure. Be sure to check local regulations regarding who can administer Botox.
Did you see a difference?
Absolutely! It took a few days for my face to adjust, but once it did, I felt and looked much better.
Are you happy with the results?
Yes!
Would you do it again?
Definitely!
Can you still move your forehead?
Yes! I was worried about looking like those Hollywood stars who seem perpetually surprised, but thankfully, I can still express myself.
How long does it last?
The effects typically last between three to four months, after which you’ll need a touch-up. Given my budget constraints, I plan to stretch this first round as long as possible.
What about side effects?
Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, so for any concerns about side effects, consult a trained professional. Personally, I only experienced a nasty headache.
For those interested in home insemination, check out this informative resource, and for quality products, see this baby maker kit. If you’re curious about potential risks, you can find more information here.
In summary, Botox can be a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a little pick-me-up and don’t mind the initial discomfort. After the initial recovery, the results can be quite satisfying!