Offered in a range of locations, from beauty salons to dentists, Botox is a popular and widely used treatment. However, it can become a costly, lifelong commitment. Here we compile some of the important information you need to know about Botox, including how it works and how much you can expect to pay for treatment, now and in the long run.
What is Botox?
Botox is the common brand name for the botulinum toxin type A, which is a toxin derived from bacteria. Botox works by targeting the nervous system to stop nerve signals from reaching muscles. This causes muscles to relax and prevents the skin from creasing and causing wrinkles.
Due to its toxicity, Botox and other anti-wrinkle injections are classed as prescription-only medicines, meaning they can only be administered by qualified medical professionals.
How much does Botox cost?
In New Zealand, the price of a single unit of Botox is around $15. Dysport, another anti-wrinkle injection, is significantly cheaper than Botox, costing between $5-$6 per unit, although it's more dilute, and thus less potent.
And most procedures require multiple units. For example to treat forehead wrinkles can require a minimum of eight units of Botox, or around 20 units of Dysport, and crow's-feet, from 20 units of Botox to 50 of Dysport.
Also, you have to take into consideration that the effects of these drugs wear off, usually after four to six months. This means that to maintain your wrinkle-free look, you'll need to pay for ongoing treatments.
Why would you get Botox?
Cosmetic Botox is generally used as an anti-wrinkle treatment for the upper face – typically targeting laughter lines, crow's-feet, and deeply ingrained forehead lines. However, there are medical uses for Botox, too, such as for the treatment of chronic migraines, teeth-grinding and facial pain. But it's important to talk to a GP to see if it's a suitable treatment for you.
Is Botox covered by health insurance?
It's unlikely that private health insurance will cover Botox for purely cosmetics reasons, such as to improve a person's appearance where no prior injury or acquired deformity exists.
What could go wrong?
When administered correctly, Botox is considered safe. However side effects can still occur. These are generally temporary, and restricted to the injection area, but can include drooping eyelids, bruising, headache, face pain, redness, swelling and numbness. In rare cases, side effects can spread from the injection site and cause more serious side effects, affecting swallowing, speaking or breathing.
It's important to understand that Botox is a potent bacterial neurotoxin that can be dangerous if misused.
Given the risks associated with Botox and similar drugs, it's highly recommended that you research licensed, experienced practitioners before commencing treatments.