At Guelph Facial Plastics, led by double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew D. Brace, patient care doesn’t end when you leave the treatment room. Proper aftercare plays a vital role in ensuring your BOTOX results are smooth, natural in appearance, and long-lasting. By following a few clear guidelines, you can enhance your outcome and reduce the risk of side effects. Here’s what to keep in mind for the best results.
Keep Your Head Elevated
For the first few hours after treatment, remain upright. Lying down too soon can cause the product to shift into unintended areas. Aim to stay upright for at least four hours after your procedure.
Avoid Touching or Massaging the Area
It’s natural to want to check treated skin, but rubbing, pressing, or massaging can interfere with how BOTOX settles. This may lessen its effect. If you apply makeup, do so lightly and avoid pressure on the injection sites.
Skip Strenuous Exercise
Exercise increases blood flow, which may raise the likelihood of bruising or swelling and is best avoided immediately after treatment. For at least 24 hours, avoid activities such as:
- Running or cardio workouts
- Weightlifting or resistance training
- Hot yoga or heated fitness classes
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Hold Off on Alcohol and Blood Thinners
To reduce the risk of bruising, avoid the following for at least 24 hours after your procedure unless otherwise directed by your physician:
- Alcohol
- Aspirin
- Other blood-thinning medications
Always consult your prescribing doctor before pausing any prescribed medication.
Be Patient With Your Results
Unlike dermal fillers, which provide immediate changes, BOTOX requires a few days to take effect. Most patients see improvements within 3-5 days, with the full effect visible at around two weeks. Allow this time for your results to develop naturally.
Protect Your Skin
Healthy skin helps you enjoy longer-lasting benefits. Focus on these habits:
- Use a gentle skincare routine
- Stay well hydrated
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher daily
- Limit excessive sun exposure
- Avoid tanning beds, which accelerate skin aging
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Results typically last 3-4 months. To maintain a consistent, youthful appearance:
- Schedule your next appointment before the effects fully wear off
- Keep follow-up visits with Dr. Brace for results that remain natural and balanced
- Stay consistent for smoother, more reliable outcomes over time
Trust Your Care to an Expert
For BOTOX and all facial rejuvenation treatments, the skill and training of your provider make a significant difference. Dr. Matthew D. Brace, Vice President of the Canadian Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, combines advanced training with an artistic approach to deliver refined, individualized results. His team at Guelph Facial Plastics prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and care at every stage.
Ready to enjoy the benefits of BOTOX with results that look as natural as they feel? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Brace and the team at Guelph Facial Plastics to take the next step toward refreshed confidence.