Why do some people get 2 or 3 units of Botox vs. 5 or 10 in certain areas?

The number of units required for each person will vary; it’s not a “one size fits all” treatment. The number of units used will depend on the person’s desired result as well as their individual metabolism and the state of their wrinkles. Deeper, more numerous wrinkles will require more units than someone whose wrinkles are just beginning to show. Most injectors prefer to inject conservatively at first, as it is easier to add more units later than to fix a bad result from injecting too much. If you do not have 11 lines, there’s no reason to have Botox done in that area, unless you want to treat the forehead. In which case I always put a little on the glabellar complex to avoid a brow drop as by just treating the forehead you are left with the brow depressor muscles unopposed. I recommend visiting a different board-certified dermatologist for a second opinion.

The dosing for Botox is variable and based on the desired effect, the amount of current animation, and the strength of the muscles. For new patients, however, the exact dosing is
often discovered through a trial and error process. See link below. Some rough
guidelines are:Forehead: 16 unitsCrowfeet: 8 units per sideGlabella: 18 unitsConsultation with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery would be the next best step.

Thank you for your question in regards to Botox.Each patient differs from the amount of units used. Some people do not need as many as others. Also, depending on the injector and how the Botox was reconstituted will vary the number of units used. If you are only concerned will forehead lines, and not your glabella area than Botox should not be necessary in your 11's. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment.I hope this helps.

Thank you for your excellent question.  In response to your first two questions, yes Botox dosing is dependent on a case by case scenario, as patients with larger muscles, or more active muscles, will typically require higher doses.  Botox is an excellent medication because it can lead to predictable and reproducible results in a very safe and controlled manner.  Areas that you wish to be treated can, while others can be left alone, tailoring the results to your desires.  Be sure to see an ASPS board certified plastic surgeon for an in-person evaluation.   

Plastic Surgery is identical to all aspects of medicine in that the diagnosis leads to treatment options. Once th diagnosis and treatment options have been evaluated- the best course of actions is recommended. Botox is a toxin and it works by paralyzing the muscles. Every person requires a different dosage to achieve the best result. Also, every person metabolizes or detoxifies the product differently. Therefore, the duration of action and its onset are different with each person.