How to Find an Experienced Botox Injector?

Hi Kate,

Start with a board certified physician in one of the cosmetically oriented specialties (Plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, ENT, dermatology, and opthalmo-plastic surgery).

Have a good look at the receptionist and staff. They should look natural. If they look like Jack Nicholson in "The Joker", or Cruella Deville, or Spock, try the next office on your list. One of the perks of working in a cosmetic physician's office is that Allergan will sponsor injections for the staff.

Another tip off is if you see that the office offers eye patches for sale in the waiting room, get out.

You can call Allergan and ask to speak to the local rep who should know which doctors in your area are the best injectors.

Wish you were in Los Angeles, then I could recommend this really great injector in Encino. Be well.

Dr. P

How can I find an experienced injector?

When considering Botox, I can't stress enough the importance of seeking out an injector with skill and experience. I recommend limiting the search to board certified Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists. Be wary of anyone who gives injections 'on the side'. You want an injector who has studied facial anatomy and will customize your injections to your face. An inexperienced injector may inject too much, or they may inject into the wrong muscles. Just a millimeter off can make a world of a difference. Some of these complications from Botox being administered incorrectly by untrained injectors can be very serious, even life threatening. Do you really want to put your safety into the hands of someone who has learned to do Botox during a weekend class? Just because the procedure is less invasive than surgery it does not mean it should be rushed into without proper research and thought.

 

While it may be uncomfortable for some to talk about cosmetic procedures, you will probably save yourself a lot of time, headaches and money by asking a friend or relative if they have had any cosmetic treatments like Botox and if so, who performs their procedure.  

Once you have found a practice, if your injector does not make you feel comfortable, then you are probably at the wrong office.

The absolute best way to find an experienced injector is by word of mouth. Credentials, length of practice and advertising do not mean that a physician is knowledgeable or artistic.

Dear Kate25
Look at liquidfacelift.com. This is a website of physicians who have devoted a great deal of their practice to minimally invasive treatments with BOTOX and fillers. The site is by invitation only for qualified physicians and surgeons. Hopefully the site will list someone in your area.
Alternatively, it is a good idea to only see a core physician or surgeon: general plastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon, oculoplastic surgeon, or dermatologist. Avoid practices where nurse Sally will be doing your treatment (generally in those offices that use nurses, the nurse does a better job than the doctor). Look for an office where the doctor will do your treatment. Be aware that there is no such thing as the independent practice of BOTOX by a nurse or aesthetician. We have a phenomena in California of medispas with no doctor on the premises. These are illegal operations.
BOTOX is an art form and you are looking for that artist. Yes it does make a world of difference.

A board certified Plastic surgeon or dermatologist with a busy cosmetic practice is a good place to start.
During the consultation, you will soon detect whether the degree of confidence, experience, attention to detail and artistic eye you are seeking are present or not. You will know without doubt when you are in the right office.
Once you find a top doctor who delivers great results, stick with that person. They will learn the nuances, minor asymmetries, areas of interest and trouble zones that each unique patient has.

Thanks for your question -
You should start with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist.  Talk to them about how much experience they've had.  Talk to their patients and see what local reviews are saying.
I hope this helps.

A Medical practice with a lot of experience can share their status with Allergan for instance, Top 1% of Botox Providers in the US.A check of the Allergan website can also help you find an experienced injector. They should use only freshly reconstituted Botox. Many photos and videos of before and after images are another great way to help determine how to find a very experienced injector with expertise

It is best to have treatment with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.  You can ask your friends or family doctor for a referral to someone whose results they like and whom they trust.

Checking credentials is important - e.g. seeing a dermatologist or plastic surgeon is preferable. Ensure the doctor is performing the procedure rather that e.g. a nurse injector.