What You Should Know Before Getting Botox

Why I've been considering this cosmetic procedure.

By
Published August 13, 2025
black and white closeup image of woman, pencil erasing, eye
AARP (Shutterstock, Getty Images)

To Botox or not to Botox?

That’s my newest midlife question, Girlfriends. I always said I’d never get any type of cosmetic procedure to disguise my aging, but as the wrinkles increase and the jowls become more prominent, I can’t help but daydream about smooth, youthful skin. Everyone and their sister is getting Botox these days — even those darn Gen Zers and they don’t even have wrinkles! I admit that I am Botox curious. In an effort to arm myself with knowledge and decide once and for all if it’s for me (and my wrinkles), I went on a quest for the 411 and got the answer to my Botox burning questions.

What Is Botox?

Although the term is widely used, Botox is actually one particular brand (and the most commonly used). Other brands include Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau; a consultation with your provider will help you determine which one is best for you. Dr. Arnold Breitbart, head plastic surgeon at Long Island Facelift, says that when injected into the face, Botox, which is a neurotoxin, “temporarily blocks the nerve signals that would typically cause those muscles to contract.” In other words, it relaxes your facial muscles, which in turn “reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles like crow’s feet, frown lines and forehead creases.” Botox is not, however, plastic surgery. Kiara DeWitt, advanced clinical nurse injector and CEO of Injectco, clarifies, “Plastic surgery is cutting. Botox is injecting. Different ballpark, different rules. There is no scalpel, no anesthesia, no stitches.” It is a cosmetic treatment akin to eyebrow threading or getting a facial, although it may be slightly less relaxing.

Is It Safe?

The FDA considers Botox safe for treating wrinkles and other conditions. Likewise, the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) refers to the treatment’s long track record of safety and effectiveness, but it warns of counterfeit injectables that are not safe. In 2024, it issued a statement informing the public about the threats and consequences these can cause. These counterfeits may account for some of the horror stories related to Botox, which are shared on public forums.

What Are the Risks?

Like with any procedure, Botox comes with its own set of risks, which include headaches as well as light bruising, swelling or pain at the injection site. These are typically mild and short-lived. Dr. Breitbart shares that some of the less common risks, like “drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow, muscle weakness, vision problems or difficulty swallowing,” are usually caused when the Botox spreads to unintended areas. To avoid risks, be sure to visit a licensed professional for your injections and, as DeWitt points out, “dose and placement are everything,” so discuss these with your provider before your first procedure. A thorough consultation should cover desired results, expectations, risks, preparations and recovery.

What Are Some Tips for First-Timers?

Do your research and find an experienced, licensed practitioner. DeWitt urges all to “skip the group coupons and TikTok deals!” Listen closely to the preparation instructions, which typically include avoiding alcohol and blood thinners for 24-48 hours before and after injections, and arrive well-hydrated. After the procedure, you will want to stay upright for a few hours and avoid facials, exercise and massaging the area. DeWitt urges first-timers to “ask for conservative dosing. You can always add more later, but you cannot take it out once it is in.”

What Happens When It Wears Off?

On average, the effects of Botox last anywhere from three to four months, with some seeing results for up to six months. Results vary and are dependent on things like the location of the injections and the individual’s metabolic rate, skincare routine and level of sun exposure. When it does go wrong, however, there are no long-term effects. Breitbart says that “muscle activity gradually returns, and the treated wrinkles may reappear. However, the skin does not become worse than its pre-treatment state.” If you choose never to get Botox again, there will be no adverse effects or accelerated signs of aging.

Is Botox for You?

If you aren’t sure if Botox is for you, DeWitt says, “You are not ready, and that is fine! There is no countdown clock. The best Botox patients walk in with clarity. They are doing it for themselves. There is no pressure, no ‘maybe this will fix me’ vibes. If your gut is still debating, hold off. You will know when you are ready because the decision will feel neutral, not loaded.”

Even with all of this helpful information, I’m still on the fence. So, I’m holding off — for now. But I’m still dreaming about smooth and youthful skin.

Have you ever tried Botox? Would you like to? Let us know in the comments below.

Suzanne E. Hayes is a freelance writer based in Simsbury, Connecticut, where she’s raising three children and finding plenty of real-life inspiration along the way. Her work explores family, identity, and the beautifully messy moments of modern womanhood. Suzanne’s writing has appeared in Working Mother, Woman’s World, Kveller, Guideposts, Under the Gum Tree Literary Magazine, and more. With honesty and heart, she brings stories to life that resonate long after the last line is read.