What would be the minimum number of Botox units could I get in the forehead region just to see how I might react? (photo)

Question

I'd like to address my forehead wrinkles with Botox. However, I'm nervous about how it will make me feel-literally. Some people say they feel like a brick is on their head. Is it possible to just "try out" Botox? I am quite comfortable with coming back a couple of weeks later if the amount injected wasn't enough. I really want to error on the side of caution and have my injector be super conservative. Is that possible? What is the least amount of units I could get?

Babak Azizzadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question. Everyone reacts to Botox slightly differently, however it is a very safe and easy treatment. The vast majority of patients tolerate the injections very well with minimal discomfort or side effects. The more expertise and experience the injector has the better the result. It is possible to have a very small amount of Botox injected, however this would most likely not be enough to address your concerns which might make it hard to judge if you like the treatment or not. I would recommend finding an injector who prides themselves on providing patients with a natural result (meaning that they are not over-injecting). There are certainly providers who are more conservative than others, so doing your research will prove to be beneficial! Best of luck!

John Mancoll, MD · Answer

In my experience, it is possible to achieve a beautiful and aesthetic result with minimal amounts of Botox in the forehead.  I have injected as little as 3 units and as many as 25 units.  Some patients respond to very small amounts.  Keep in mind that Botox reduces wrinkles because the muscles relax after treatment.  You have to inject enough Botox to decrease muscle movement, or the treatment is not effective.  Plan a visit with a reputable injector and discuss your goals and concerns about treatment.  They should be able to come up with a conservative plan for you.  Enjoy your treatment!

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

You can try "baby botox" however it is important that the muscles are treated properly and correctly to avoid eyebrow drooping.  A typical forehead treatment will include the glabella as well as the forehead.

Susan Longar, MD · Answer

Hi TexasMissKate,
Thank you for your question!  In my clinic, we always start with a very small amount of Botox, especially if it is the first time we are injecting someone.  After about 2 weeks, we document the patients response and if there was any associated discomfort (you mentioned "a brick") that should be addressed, then we perfect the look with additional units.   I am not sure what you mean by "small" amount, very generally speaking 15 to 20 units could be considered a good place to start after a thorough assessment and photos done by your injector.  Good Luck!

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The amount of Botox needed and price depend on your goals and expectations and on an in-person exam. Botox is a good option for you as it wears off within 3-4 months and does not have any permanent side effects. Please be sure to see an expert for an in-person consultation to fully discuss your concerns. All the best!

Victor Michalak, MD · Answer

There are a few variables which determine if a person is a candidate for treatment of Forehead wrinkles with Botulinum toxin and what dose is appropriate.
Men and Women generally require different doses for a good effect since the forehead muscles are more developed and thicker in men.
In either sex, the degree of animation or frequency of contraction of these forehead muscles and depth of the lines also will determine what dose is optimal,
For some individuals very small doses, 10 units or less of Botox or Xeomin or no treatment would be recommended to avoid dropping the height of the brows which can create a very unpleasant appearance.  This is where the expertise and the experience of the Medical professional providing the treatment is of paramount importance.

Cain R. Linville, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes of course, you can do something very small, like 12 units.  That's a super small amount.  However, most of my patients feel as though the weight has been lifted, and they feel much more rested and less "angry looking" throughout the day.  Going to a board-certified PS who knows the anatomy and understands the subtleties of botox injection would really help maximize your investment.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello TexasMissKate,There are ranges of Botox that can be used.  When it comes to just the lines on the forehead usually it is about 10 units to get a result in most patients.  If you start dropping down the dose you run the risk of not getting any benefit.  You can go to higher doses, like you indicated in your question, about 2 weeks later if you didn't get enough of a result.  I'd recommend you consult with a facial plastic surgeon that does his or her own injections.  This way you can learn more about Botox and if it is right for you.I hope this helps and good luck.

Sanaz Harirchian, MD · Answer

Hi texasmisskate. The goal is to inject enough Botox to smooth out the wrinkles, while still making your appearance look natural & allowing forehead movement. 10-12 units should be enough in you. Good luck. Best, Dr H

Regina Rodman, MD · Answer

You can get whatever amount you want!  While there are certain amounts that I recommend based on location and individual muscle movement in everyone, your treatment is ultimately up to you.  If you would like to a very small amount just to see how you react, we can do that!  I cannot guarantee that you will see a result with a less than recommended amount, but if you just want to try it to see how you react, that is certainly possible.  Do be sure to go a doctor who does their own injections though!  People do get poo results if the botox is not injected correctly.    
Best of luck
Dr Rodman

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