First Time Botox: 12 Questions to Ask Before Your Treatment

If you are planning first time Botox, this FAQ answers the questions patients ask most before treatment: what Botox is approved for, what side effects to expect, who should wait, how it compares with fillers and what happens if you do not like the result. Botox is one of the most common cosmetic treatments, but knowing the facts helps you choose the right injector and set realistic expectations.

At ImageLab Med Spa, we offer Botox and wrinkle relaxers at our locations in Chicago, Alexandria and Rockford. Below are 12 answers to help you prepare.

1. What Is Botox Approved to Treat?

BOTOX Cosmetic is FDA approved for four cosmetic areas:

• Frown lines between the brows
• Forehead lines
• Crow's feet at the outer corners of the eyes
• Platysma bands, the vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck, approved in October 2024

Injectors also use neuromodulators for other concerns, such as jaw clenching, a gummy smile and excessive sweating. Some of these are off-label uses, so ask your injector to explain the approach for each area.

2. How Many Units Are Typical for Each Area?

The FDA-labeled doses for BOTOX Cosmetic are:

• Frown lines: 20 units
• Crow's feet: 24 units
• Forehead lines with frown lines: 40 units total

These are reference points, not fixed amounts. Your injector adjusts the dose based on your muscle strength and goals.3. Why Are Forehead Lines Treated Together With Frown Lines?

The forehead muscle lifts your brows, while the muscles between the brows pull them down. If only the forehead is treated, the brows can drop. The FDA label for BOTOX Cosmetic calls for forehead lines to be treated together with frown lines to help keep the brows balanced.

4. What Are the Most Common Side Effects?

Most side effects are mild and temporary. According to the BOTOX Cosmetic prescribing information, the most common side effects are:

• Frown lines: Eyelid drooping (3%)
• Crow's feet: Eyelid swelling (1%)
• Forehead lines: Headache (9%) and brow drooping (2%)

Redness, swelling or small bruises at the injection site can also occur.

5. Is Botox Safe?

Botox has been FDA approved for cosmetic use for more than two decades and is considered safe when given by a trained medical injector. Like all botulinum toxin products, it carries an FDA warning that its effect can, in rare cases, spread beyond the injection area. Choosing a licensed, experienced injector is the most important safety step you can take.

6. Who Should Not Get Botox?

According to the prescribing information, Botox should not be used if you:

• Are allergic to any botulinum toxin product or its ingredients
• Have an infection at the planned injection site

There is not enough data on Botox during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so most injectors recommend waiting. Tell your injector about any neuromuscular condition, medications and past neuromodulator treatments before your appointment.

7. Botox vs Fillers: What Is the Difference?

Botox and dermal fillers treat different causes of aging:

• How it works:
  • Botox: Relaxes muscles that cause expression lines
  • Dermal fillers: Adds volume and structure
• Best for:
  • Botox: Lines that form when you move
  • Dermal fillers: Volume loss, lips, cheeks, chin, jawline
• How long it lasts:
  • Botox: About 3 to 4 months
  • Dermal fillers: About 6 to 18 months, depending on product and area

Many patients use both. Learn more about lip fillers or read our comparison of Dysport lip flip vs lip filler.

8. Which Brand Should I Choose?

We offer Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau. All four work in a similar way, but they differ in formulation. Your injector will recommend one based on your goals and treatment history. For a closer look, read Xeomin vs Botox, Dysport vs Botox and Jeuveau vs Botox.

9. What If I Do Not Like My Result?

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Botox cannot be dissolved. The good news is that it is temporary. Results gradually wear off over about 3 to 4 months.

If something looks uneven, your 2-week follow-up is the time to address it. At ImageLab, every treatment includes a complimentary 2-week follow-up, and minor adjustments are offered at no charge.

10. How Often Should I Get Botox?

Most patients return every 3 to 4 months, when muscle movement starts to return. Your injector will help you plan a schedule based on how long your results last. Read more in our guide to Botox effects and results timeline.

11. When Should I Schedule Botox Before an Event?

Results appear within 3 to 7 days, with full effect at about 2 weeks. For a wedding, photos or another big event, plan your treatment at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead. That gives you time for full results and your follow-up visit.

12. What Should I Ask My Injector?

Before your treatment, ask:

• What are your credentials, and how often do you perform this treatment?
• Which product do you recommend for me, and why?
• How many units do you expect to use, and what will it cost?
• What side effects should I watch for?
• What should I do after treatment?
• When should I come back for follow-up?

A good injector will answer each question clearly and assess your face at rest and in motion before starting.

How Much Does Botox Cost at ImageLab?

New-patient Botox starts at $9.99 per unit (regular price $14 per unit). Forehead treatment typically costs $100 to $200. Members of our Beauty Bank program ($49 per month) pay from $10 per unit and get 15% off other services. See our membership for details.

Book Botox at ImageLab Med Spa

Our licensed RN, NP and PA-C injectors focus on natural results that keep your expressions. Every consultation is complimentary.

Visit us at any of our locations:

• Chicago, IL: 2033 W Roscoe St | (872) 285-6769
• Alexandria, VA: 123 N Pitt St, Suite 150 | (703) 884-8314
• Rockford, IL: 1998 McFarland Road | (815) 205-1122

Book your complimentary consultation and bring your questions.