Neurotoxin FAQs

What is a neurotoxin?

Neurotoxins (Botox/Dysport/Xeomin) are proteins derived from Clostridium botulinum that work to smooth facial lines and wrinkles by blocking a muscle’s ability to contract, to decrease the amount of movement in a particular area, the glabella region for example, where you may have the typical “frown lines” or “11s”. By injecting small amounts of neurotoxin to areas of concern, our trained providers can help enhance your already perfect features into a more smooth, elevated, and youthful look. 

What’s the difference between neurotoxins?

At NC Wellness, we offer Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. All are derivatives of the same protein, but are slightly different in their molecular makeup. The 3, however, can help you achieve similar results: reduced fine lines and wrinkles to create a smooth look to the skin. Schedule with one of our experienced providers today to discuss which product is best for you!

What to expect at NC Wellness?

When scheduling your first consultation with NC Wellness, one of our certified providers trained in both neurotoxins and fillers will sit with you during your consultation and discuss with you what your goals are, how best to achieve them, and what product is best for you. Our goal is to achieve a look that is YOU but elevated, using the least amount of product to give you the best and most wanted results. 

Can everyone get neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins are FDA approved for patients 21 years or older. It should not be used in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

When will I start to see results and how long will they last?

Typically, the effects of neurotoxins begin to appear in 1-3 days, peaking between 1-4 weeks. In general, you can expect results to last about 3-4 months. 

Is there any downtown after my treatment?

Minimal downtime is required following treatments, allowing you to return to your day-to-day activities.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects from neurotoxins are usually mild in nature but can include swelling or bruising at the injection site, headache, or flu-like symptoms. Undesired absence of muscle function can occur. A detailed plan will be developed during the consultation with your provider, minimizing the chance of any adverse effects. 

What are neurotoxin best for?

• Between the eyebrows – your “frown lines”

• Nose – “bunny lines”

• Forehead

• Around the eyes – “crow’s feet”

• Mouth

• Lips

• Chin

• Neck

What should I do before receiving treatment?

• Schedule your appointment at least 2 weeks prior to any scheduled occasion to avoid risk of redness, swelling, or bruising during your special day. 

• It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, NSAIDS, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary physician prior to discontinuing any medications.

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. All of these factors may increase risk of bruising and swelling.

• Starting Arnica supplements at least 2 days prior to injections may help with bruising.

• Let the provider know if you have a history of cold sores. An antiviral may be prescribed.

• You may not have an active rash in the area being treated.

What should I do after receiving treatment?

• Redness or sensitivity might be present (and last up to a few hours).

• Use Tylenol only as needed for any soreness.

• Do NOT manipulate the treated area for 4 hours following treatment.

• Do NOT wear a hat for 4 hours following treatment.

• Do NOT lie down for 4 hours after your treatment.

• Do NOT perform activities involving straining, heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for 4 hours after treatment.

• It is recommended that you wait at least 2 weeks before having any other facial treatments (i.e. facials, massages, lasers, ultrasounds, micro-dermabrasion).

• It can take approximately 3-5 days for results to be seen. If the desired result is not seen after 2 weeks of your treatment you may need additional injections. You will be charged for product used during any touch up or subsequent appointments.

 

Dermal Filler FAQs

What is dermal filler and what is it used for?

Dermal fillers (Restylane/Juvederm) are products containing hyaluronic acid, a naturally-occurring substance in your body used to create smoother, lineless looks as well as to increase volume in depleted areas. Common areas where dermal fillers are used include the lips, nasolabial folds (lines around the mouth), marionette lines (smile lines), cheeks, chin, and jaw line. Restylane and Juvederm are two different products that are carried here at NC Wellness and both work to elevate, hydrate, and volumize different areas of the face. Schedule your consultation with one of our certified providers to discuss which product is right for you!

What to expect at NC Wellness? 

During your consultation, our providers will sit down with you and discuss your goals, how best to achieve them, and which product would be best for you. In the world of dermal fillers, our mission is to provide results that enhance the natural beauty of our patient’s features, while maintaining what makes you, YOU.

Can everyone get dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are FDA approved for patients 21 years or older. It should not be used in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

When will I start to see results and how long will they last?

You will begin to see results immediately following your treatment with dermal fillers. Depending on amount and location, fillers can typically last 6-12 months. 

Is there any downtime after my treatment?

Some redness, swelling, and bruising are common side effects from dermal fillers, usually directly following treatment. This may be something to keep in mind when scheduling your visit if you would like to consider social downtime following treatment. 

Are there any side effects?

Swelling, bruising, and redness can be seen immediately following treatment but typically resolves within a few days. Ice can help reduce these effects and will be given to you immediately following treatment. 

What should I do before receiving treatment?

• Schedule your appointment at least 2 weeks prior to a special event. Redness, swelling and bruising may be apparent in that time period.

• Avoid any dental procedure(s) including dental cleanings 2 weeks prior or after any filler procedure(s).

• It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, NSAIDS, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary physician prior to discontinuing any medications.

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. All of these factors may increase risk of bruising and swelling.

• Starting Arnica supplements at least 2 days prior to injections may help with bruising.

• Let the provider know if you have a history of cold sores. An antiviral may be prescribed.

• You may not have an active rash in the area being treated.

• You may not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

What should I do after receiving treatment?

• Redness or sensitivity might be present (and last up to a few hours).

• Use Tylenol for any soreness.

• Avoid significant movement or massage of the treated area unless instructed by the provider.

• Avoid makeup for 12 hours.

• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

• Avoid extensive sun or heat for 72 hours.

• If you have swelling, you may apply a cool compress for 15 minutes each hour if instructed to do so by provider.

• Sleep face up and slightly elevated. This will also help with swelling.

• It is recommended that you wait at least 2 weeks before having any other facial treatments (i.e. facials, massages, lasers, ultrasounds, micro-dermabrasion).