Dr. Sibthorpe Answers Your Questions – Part 29 – All About Anti-Wrinkle Injections

In this episode, Dr. Sibthorpe answers your most common questions about anti-wrinkle injections and facial rejuvenation. Learn what happens if you stop treatment, how long results last, tips to make your injections last longer, safety information, and the benefits of a brow lift. Whether you’re new to anti-wrinkle treatments or looking to understand long-term care, this Q&A has everything you need to know.

Q: What happens if I stop using Botox anti-wrinkle injections after years of using it?

A: If you suddenly stop using Botox, it’s not going to make you age any faster. You’re basically back to day one. Obviously, you’ve had Botox along the way, so it’s prevented many wrinkles and folds. From that point on, those lines will start to form again without Botox.

Q: Do you recommend sticking to a regular schedule of Botox?

A: I find that with patients who are getting older, we actually use less. The muscles become weaker as we age. Often, patients think they need more Botox because they see more wrinkles, but in fact, the opposite is usually true. We want to avoid issues such as brow ptosis. Botox will be used in certain areas, but some areas I won’t treat as patients get older.

Q: How long does Botox last?

A: Botox typically lasts three to four months, but I’ve seen it last longer in some patients—sometimes five or six months. Quite often, patients who have been with me for 20 years may only come in twice a year.

Q: When do you see results after the treatment?

A: The onset of Botox is generally three to eleven days, but I’ve seen results as quickly as four hours. I usually review patients at two weeks because, by then, there’s no further action from the Botox, and we can see the final effect.

Q: How can I make my Botox last longer?

A: In cases where Botox hasn’t lasted as long as it should, it’s usually because patients have been under stress or exposed to a lot of sun, often frowning more than usual. Avoiding excessive sun and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key.

Q: What about Zoom meetings and working on the computer?

A: That’s a good point. Zoom meetings and computer work may contribute to frowning more often. Plus, the blue light from screens isn’t great for us, which can also affect Botox longevity.

Q: Is Botox safe, and is it safe long term?

A: Yes, Botox is safe. It’s been around for more than 40 years and is considered safe long term. The main safety concern is counterfeit Botox, which unfortunately some unscrupulous providers have used, as seen in the press. Make sure you get Botox from a reputable practitioner. Otherwise, it’s very safe.

Q: What is a Botox brow lift?

A: Botox brow lift is actually where I focus much of my approach. Many people think Botox is just for lines, wrinkles, and folds. That’s true, but I don’t focus on that as much. As we age, we develop brow ptosis—everything becomes heavy and droops. By using Botox in specific areas around the brow, we can create a lift. That lift helps you look more refreshed, not angry or sad.