How Long Does Botox Last?

Botox works by irreversibly binding to receptors that send nerve signals for muscles to contract. But, since your body makes new receptors and neurotransmitters all the time, each patient will have different lengths of effective paralysis. 2-6 months is the range; average is 3-4 months. But wait, there's more!

To complicate the matter further, Botox (and Dysport, another company's botulinum toxin) is a labile protein, meaning it is sensitive to heat, excessive agitation, and time. Careful reconstitution, use while fresh, and keeping it refrigerated is essential. Beware offices or spas that advertise Botox days (especially if it's Friday)--they are simply trying to use up their reconsituted Botox so it won't sit over the weekend and lose effectiveness. Particularly beware of Monday morning Botox in such centers!

Then there's the skill and accuracy of the injector. Since Botox works where it's placed, simply shooting in a blob of liquid Botox in the general vicinity of the target muscle is a waste (of your money)! The most experienced injectors are plastic surgeons who actually operate on the target muscles in patients having forehead or brow lifts, facelifts, and eyelid surgeries. In my humble opinion, non-surgeon doctors and nurses can become experienced Botox injectors over time without operating on these areas, but consider who is best trained and experienced in the anatomy of the treatment areas.

Remember: the bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten! Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

How long does Botox last depends on several factors
Patient factors1) Expectations2) Facial expression habits3) Pre-existing static wrinkles4) Muscle bulk5) Intrinsic antibodies to botulinium toxin - rare
External factors1) Skill and experience of injector- need to inject accurately into the correct muscle group 2) Dosage of toxin used
Controversial factors: "brand" of toxin used still up for debate
Overall, patients are told to expect 3-5 months of "results", with 2-3 treatments a year suggested

Botox longevity does vary from patient to patient but on average begins within 7 days and can be effective for 3-5 months. Someone with a higher metabolism rate, stronger muscles or specific lifestyle factors may notice shorter effects of the treatment. Some clients may find the treatment lasts longer. As well, some products may be more effective than others for certain individuals. If you are an individual who has been injecting Botox for some time, your muscles may atrophy slightly overtime causing longer “results”. Be sure to speak with your selected injector and discuss if Botox is the right treatment for you.