LaFace by Laura Phan MD 20398 Blauer Drive
Saratoga, CA 95070 Phone: (408) 502-5000 Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
BOTOX, Dysport, and Daxxify® are neuromodulators that have radically changed the ways we prevent and treat unwanted wrinkles. They are among the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide and have a satisfaction rate close to 98%.
Neuromodulators selectively relax the muscles to soften unwanted facial lines and wrinkles around the eyes, between the eyebrows, and on the forehead. The treatments last 3 to 4 months and require little to no recovery time.
BOTOX, Dysport, and Daxxify treatments should be performed regularly to maintain optimal control of lines and wrinkles and achieve long-term softening of the lines. The art is in customizing each treatment to allow for a natural, youthful appearance.
What can I expect during the treatment?
We use ultra-fine needles to place the neuromodulator into the tiny facial muscles with minimal discomfort. Most people describe the sensation as a series of small pinches rather than painful injections. Although a numbing agent is typically not needed, we can apply a numbing cream about 15 to 20 minutes prior to the procedure if patients prefer. Icing the treatment area is another option for added comfort.
The injections themselves are quick and precise, usually completed in just a few minutes. Because no downtime is required, you can return to your usual activities right after treatment. Mild redness or swelling at the injection sites may occur but generally fades within a few hours.
Featured BOTOX® Cosmetic & Dysport® Before & After Photos
3-months post Morpheus8 to face and 2-months post bilateral PDO threads to mid and lower face, Botox to forehead and glabella, Restylane dermal filler to glabella and nose, and chemical peel for tighter, smoother, and even tone appearance (no make up) Read More
1-month post bilateral lower eyelids Morpheus resurfacing and 4-month post PDO threads to bilateral mid and lower face, Botox to forehead and glabella, and RHA2 dermal filler to forehead for smoother skin texture, sharper jawline, and softer grooves in the forehead and frown line Read More
1 month post bilateral upper lid cosmetic blepharoplasty and browpexy. Incisions were made in the eyelid creases, and excess skin were removed. A suture was also placed in the brow fat outside the brow arch and anchored to the forehead to lift and stabilize the tail of the brow on both sides, creating more symmetric and rejuvenated appe... Read More
1-month post Botox injections to the forehead, glabella and crows feet and dermal filler injections to the cheeks and nasojugular, nasolabial and melolabial grooves for softer lines and naturally-appearing volumization of the face, respectively Read More
How long does it take for BOTOX and Dysport to work?
Typically, it takes 2 to 5 days for the neuromodulators to start working. BOTOX usually begins working within 3 to 5 days, with full results visible in about 1 to 2 weeks. Dysport may show effects slightly sooner, often within 2 to 3 days, making it appealing for patients who want to see changes more quickly. The results peak at 2 weeks and last between 3 and 4 months.
Meet the Face Behind LaFace
Originally trained in ophthalmology, Dr. Laura Phan has a deep passion for facial aesthetics and the intricate art of surgery. She has trained under world-renowned experts in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery and is one of only a few surgeons in her area with this specialist skillset. Whether she is designing personalized treatment plans or the interiors of her treatment rooms, Dr. Phan's refined aesthetic sensibility and attention to detail shine through.
What to Do (and Not to Do) Before and After Your Treatment
Before BOTOX® or Dysport®
Most patients don’t need to do much to prepare for their injections, but a few simple steps can help minimize bruising and support the best results:
If your doctor approves, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, or vitamin E) for about 10 days.
Skip alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment.
Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup or heavy skincare products.
After BOTOX® or Dysport®
Following a few easy guidelines can help the product settle properly for optimal results:
Remain upright for at least 4 hours after treatment.
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, or hot tubs for the first 24 hours.
Do not rub or massage the treated areas, as this can cause the product to spread to unintended muscles.
Use a gentle cleanser and resume your regular skin care the next day, unless advised otherwise.
These recommendations are simple but important for getting the most out of your treatment and enjoying smooth, lasting results.
Avoid Bruising and Other Side Effects
After years of experience, Dr. Phan prefers ice to minimize bruising because it helps constrict the blood vessels. Besides bruising, other neuromodulator side effects are minimal. When patients leave the office, they will have no discomfort. They may have tiny red spots at the injection sites, but they will fade quickly. Makeup may be applied immediately if necessary.
Patients are asked to avoid baby aspirin, Advil, Aleve, ibuprofen, and fish oil 10 days before treatment, but may resume these medications the following day.
Rarely, patients report a mild headache after injections. This responds to over-the-counter medications like Tylenol and resolves quickly. In clinical trials, it is reported that approximately 1% of patients nationwide can develop a slight lowering or drooping of one eyelid when injecting above or around the eyelid. This effect is temporary and resolves in 2 to 4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can inject BOTOX in California?
California law clearly defines who can perform BOTOX injections: physicians, physician assistants, and registered nurses. PAs and RNs require physician supervision. At LaFace, Dr. Phan injects BOTOX and Dysport®.
How many units of BOTOX will I need?
The number of BOTOX units you’ll need depends on the treatment area, your facial anatomy, your muscle strength, and your aesthetic goals. For example, it typically takes 15 to 30 units to treat vertical frown lines between the eyes (the “11s”).
Can you get BOTOX while pregnant?
We don’t recommend getting BOTOX injections while pregnant or breastfeeding. No clinical studies have researched the safety of BOTOX during pregnancy, so there’s no evidence proving it’s safe for the developing baby.
What are some things to avoid after BOTOX?
Avoid rubbing the treatment area or lying down for the first 4 to 6 hours after getting BOTOX injections. During the first 24 hours, don’t exercise, do any heavy lifting, or perform any other activity that can increase blood flow.
How often should you get BOTOX to maintain results?
Most patients schedule BOTOX treatments every 3 to 4 months to maintain consistent results. With regular use, the treated muscles can become conditioned to stay relaxed, so you may be able to wait longer between maintenance appointments over time.
Start Your Journey At LaFace by Laura Phan MD
If you would like to explore your facial rejuvenation options with a fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic surgeon, please request a consultation online or call us at
(408) 502-5000 to get started. LaFace by Laura Phan MD serves patients from Saratoga, Los Gatos, San Jose, Cupertino, and throughout the San Francisco Peninsula.
