Smooth Truths: Separating Botox Myths from Reality
Botox is one of the most popularly performed procedures today.
Despite its long-standing clinical use, many misconceptions persist. Clarifying these myths is essential for you to make an informed and sound decision about your options.
Below, we address some of the most common myths and provide the evidence-based reality.
Myth 1: Botox results in a ‘frozen’ appearance.
Reality: When administered by a trained medical professional, Botox produces natural and controlled results. The ‘frozen’ look is typically the result of inappropriate dosing or poor injection technique. Dr Le individualises a treatment plan for you, based on muscle strength, anatomy and your personal goals. Properly administered Botox reduces excessive muscle contraction while maintaining normal expression.
Myth 2: Botox is only for older people.
Reality: Age is not a determining factor when you speak to Dr Le. If you are a younger person, you may benefit from preventative therapy, which helps limit the repetitive muscle movements that contribute to the formation of deep static wrinkles over time. If you are older, you may seek Botox to improve established deep lines. Treatment is tailored to your skin condition, not your age.
Myth 3: Botox is unsafe or harmful to you.
Reality: Botox is TGA approved and has a robust safety profile when used appropriately. Botox has been used in medicine for more than 30 years, not only in dermatology but also in neurology, ophthalmology, and physical medicine. The doses used for cosmetic purposes are highly controlled and far below levels associated with systemic effects. Adverse events are rare and typically mild, especially when performed by experienced clinicians.
Myth 4: Botox and fillers perform the same function.
Reality: These are distinct treatments with different mechanisms of action:
- Botox reduces muscle activity that causes deep wrinkles (eg: frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines).
- Fillers restore or enhance volume in areas such as the cheeks, skin folds, and lips.
In some cases, Dr Le may recommend both as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Myth 5: Stopping Botox will worsen wrinkles.
Reality: Discontinuing Botox simply allows muscle activity to return to what they were before treatment. Wrinkles will gradually reappear as the effect diminishes, usually over 3–4 months. They do not worsen beyond their natural pre-treatment state. Some patients even report that lines return less prominently due to prolonged muscle relaxation over time.
Myth 6: Botox results are immediate.
Reality: Botox requires time to take effect. Most patients begin to see improvement appearing at 10–14 days. The gradual onset contributes to the natural appearance of the treatment. You will not walk out of the clinic completely reformed.
Myth 7: Botox is painful and requires significant downtime.
Reality: Botox is a minimally invasive procedure with minimal discomfort and no downtime. Injection discomfort is brief. You can resume normal activities immediately.
Myth 8: Botox is primarily for women.
Reality: An increasing number of men are seeking treatments. Botox is commonly used in men to address forehead lines, frown lines and other areas where muscle activity creates a fatigued or stressed appearance.
Botox is a safe, clinically proven treatment that effectively reduces facial lines when administered by a qualified medical professional. Dispelling myths and understanding the scientific reality helps you to make informed decisions and achieve optimal outcomes. If you are considering Botox, schedule a consultation with Dr Le to develop an individualised treatment plan.