A Beginner’s Guide to Botox

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center

Published: June 27, 2019

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Once a taboo subject, cosmetic procedures such as Botox have quickly gained popularity among men and women eager to recapture the look of youth. Despite its popularity, there is still a lot of misunderstanding surrounding Botox and what it can do. If you are considering treatment, here are several facts you should know.

How Does it Work?

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin, and can be safe and effective when given by a trained physician. Botox works by inhibiting the contraction of muscles that cause wrinkles – specifically, the lines everyone has when they make a facial expression such as frowning or squinting. This treatment is designed to soften these facial wrinkles, giving you the appearance of a more youthful face. However, Botox will not plump up smile lines or deep wrinkles.

What Are the Risks?

Generally, Botox is considered safe when given as directed. However, there are some side effects that may occur. Nausea, headache, bruising at the injection site, redness, itching, increased sweat production and temporary muscle weakness are side effects that you should speak to your doctor about if they do not go away. In rare cases, the botulinum toxin may spread throughout your body and can cause botulism signs and symptoms. If this occurs, you should immediately seek medical attention.

Is it Permanent?

Botox injections are not permanent. Within three to six months, the effects will begin to fade. To maintain your youthful appearance, you need to get repeat injections every few months.

How Long Does it Take?

When you arrive for your Botox appointment, you can expect to be there for about 10 to 15 minutes. Additionally, Botox injections require very little downtime. The majority of patients can immediately resume their normal activities. However, take care not to rub or massage the area of the injections – this can cause the toxin to migrate to a different part of the body.

Does it Hurt?

The doctor will typically prescribe a medication to numb the area where the injections will be given. However, some patients might feel discomfort or very mild pain when being treated with Botox. Generally, the discomfort is tolerable for the majority of Botox patients.

How Much Does it Cost?

The price for Botox injections varies widely and will depend on a number of factors. Most Botox physicians charge per unit (not per area) with prices ranging from about $10 to $15 per unit. To put it in perspective, this amounts to an average cost of $300 to $600 per treatment. However, it’s always a good idea to research prices in your area before committing to a physician.

Are Their Natural Alternatives to Botox?

For people who are leery of any cosmetic procedures, there is a natural alternative to Botox. Natox works exactly like Botox but doesn’t require needles or invasive procedures. It has been clinically proven to give patients younger looking skin and contains only natural, organic ingredients. Additionally, Natox is painless, has no side effects and is a safe and effective natural alternative to Botox. Finally, Natox is less expensive than Botox injections.

Botox injections are a popular cosmetic treatment, but there’s still a lot of misinformation regarding this procedure. Whether you are considering Botox injections or a natural alternative such as Natox, you should always make sure to research your options and decide on a course of treatment that’s right for you.

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Nick's Story

"I wish I would have come here first. We spend all our time reacting to the next great weight loss tip or program. It might work for a while, but does not last and we end up yo-yoing from one fad to the next – as we gain more weight." Read More

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Lost 44.5 lbs

"I had no trouble adhering to the meals and they really helped catapult my progress! The classes were so beneficial to me because they helped change my thinking about how I viewed health, nutrition, and fitness.

I will always have my relationship with Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. They truly helped me change my life forever." Read More

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Lost 60 lbs

"Dr. Ziltzer and everyone who I have come in contact with at the Scottsdale Weight Loss office have been so encouraging and I look forward to seeing them each week. It is now a year and 2 months later since I started. I am down 60 lbs., which is the average amount a 9-year-old weighs, it is crazy to think I lost a whole person! I feel amazing, I hit my goal weight in November 2021 just before Thanksgiving. Nothing on my body hurts anymore..." Read More

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Lost 66 lbs

"The best thing I did was call the Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. I have a lot more energy, I'm not hungry, and it feels great.

You can take it from me that this is a program that produces results. The staff is always positive, supportive, and never judgmental.

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Lost 101 lbs

"Here I am at the lowest I have been since high school weighing in at 155lbs. I have lost 101 lbs, BMI of 39 when I started, to 21.6, and of course at body fat % of 47.1 to 26.5%. I told myself by my 30th birthday I wanted to be confident in the way I look and I owe it all to SWLC. The entire staff is so welcoming and they are rooting for you just as much as you are rooting for yourself...." Read More

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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20.  It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
     
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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr Robert Ziltzer! He helped me reach my ideal weight and more importantly maintain it for over 2 years. He has also helped me keep my blood pressure exactly where my internist wanted it. Dr Ziltzer is not only exceptional in weight management but also a truly gifted internet’s. His knowledge, kindness, and dedication are remarkable. I am deeply grateful for his care and recommend him whole heartedly!
     
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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
     
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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment.  Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA.  Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss.  I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
     
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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My weight loss is going well because of Scottsdale Weight Loss Center.  I couldn’t do it without them
     
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   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I'd lost 20 pounds on my own and struggled to keep it off.  I decided GLP-1 meds were the next step in losing more and keeping it off.  I wanted a medical doctor supervised program and chose SWLC. I am so very glad I did!  The team in Glendale is so supportive and kind; and when I feel discouraged, they pick me up with positive energy and input.  They really do a great job with encouragement all the time. 6 weeks in I've lost 17 pounds, and am approaching weight loss with a very new perspective.  Also knowing that when I reach my target goal, they'll be there through maintenance and beyond is encouraging as well.  Good to not feel alone on this journey.
     
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