Botox – How much do you really need?
Everyone may need their own unique number of units when it comes to a Botox treatment. Your physician will customize your individual treatment based on many factors that may include: gender, area of treatment, and even strength of your facial muscles. Many patients still wonder though exactly how many units they may need. Use the following information to get a rough idea of how many units you might need depending on the area being treated.
Between the Eyebrows
15-20 units are recommended to prevent lines.
Brow Furrow
15-20 units are recommended to relax furrowed brows.
Eyebrow Lift
10-15 units are recommended to lift the brow.
Forehead
10-20 units are recommended to prevent forehead lines depending on the size of the forehead and how much movement is preferred.
Glabellar Lines
15-20 units are recommended to prevent lines.
Crow’s Feet
10 units on each side is recommended.
Eyes
10 units on each side is recommended.
Gummy Smile
2.5 units on each side is recommended to prevent a smile that reveals too much of the gum line.
Bunny Lines
10 units on each side is recommended.
Migraines
Botox can be used to prevent and treat migraine headaches but the exact amount would need to be determined by your medical practitioner or neurologist.
Hyperhidrosis
Botox can be used to prevent excess sweating but the exact amount would need to be determined by your medical practitioner.
Masseter Muscle
Botox can be used to treat the muscle in the jaw that is activated by grinding or clenching the teeth, which can cause soreness in the jaw, lead to TMJ, or cause wide, square looking facial features. Your doctor may recommend anywhere between 15 and 40 units of Botox on each side to treat this condition. Botox will function as a means of relief for the symptoms caused by teeth grinding or clenching.
Places NOT to Receive Botox
You cannot use Botox to treat smile lines, marionette lines, cheeks, or the chin. These areas require the use of a dermal filler. Discuss this with your doctor if you have concerns for these areas of the face.
The Bottom Line
Everyone has unique needs when it comes to the amount of Botox one should receive. The number of units of Botox you need will be determined by the area you would like to treat, the severity, and the desired effects you hope to achieve. The best advice, however, is start small and build upon those results. It is always better to under inject than to over inject. Discuss your goals with your doctor to be sure you get the result that is right for you and your individual needs.
Ready to Give Botox a Try?
Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shah so he can help you determine the exact amount of Botox you need to achieve your goals!
