Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States, and its popularity is growing. Because of the apparent ease of administering Botox treatments, lots of establishments such as spas, hairdressers and online stores are offering the service at reduced rates. These kinds of practices can be very dangerous, as well as providing a result that looks bad.

What’s at Stake when getting Botox Injections?

Properly applied Botox should reduce frown lines and wrinkles. However, when done wrong, it can result in the face looking unnatural, frozen or lopsided. In addition, while Botox is safe when applied properly, when administered improperly, it can result in severe reactions and even death. Because Botox works by paralyzing the muscles, getting this medicine in the wrong area can result in difficulty breathing or swallowing. In other cases, permanent damage to the muscles and nerves may result.

Don’t get Botox from Someone who isn’t a Doctor

While it seems harmless to have a spa employee give you a simple injection, there’s a lot more to Botox treatments than just a shot. Not everyone who gets Botox reacts to it well. When you’re getting Botox, the person administering it should be able to help if you have an allergic reaction. In addition, the placement of these injections must be carefully considered; putting them in the wrong place can cause the entire makeup of the face to distort. Your Botox treatment should be left strictly to doctors with medical training.

Don’t get Botox from a Dirty Office

Medical equipment is held to a high standard, and the cleanliness of medical facilities is more closely watched than the cleanliness of other businesses. The proper treatment and storage of medical equipment like syringes is something medical staff are explicitly trained in, but other professionals may not have had such rigorous training. Because of this, the chance of contamination and blood borne illnesses are much greater when you’re outside of a medical facility. Blood borne illnesses like AIDS and Hepatitis can be contracted from dirty needles.

Don’t do Botox Yourself

There are some sites online that will sell you the Botox home kit. This kit is usually cheaper than going to the doctor, and many people find this notion appealing. However, this is probably an extraordinarily bad idea. Many agree that administering injections to your self is a difficult procedure, which often takes a lot of classes and coaching in order to do properly. Additionally, the placement of Botox injections has a huge effect on the final result, and a thorough understanding of facial anatomy is required to prevent things like frozen brows and droopy lids.

When it comes to your face, it’s best not to skimp on the quality of medical treatment. Cheaper Botox injections may seem like a steal, but the potentially catastrophic and lifelong consequences are extremely serious. Botox is a medical treatment, and for the safest procedure, it should only be administered by medical staff.


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Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

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Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

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Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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