If you have already scheduled a consultation with your doctor, you are already aware of the risks and side effects associated with cosmetic Botox. You can minimize the effect of these side effects by temporarily altering your diet before and after your procedure.

Before Your Procedure

Botulism injections will result in temporary bruising around the injection sites. This is normal, but you can lessen the amount of visible bruising by avoiding certain foods before and after your procedure.

• Garlic. This pungent herb provides many health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, immune system support, and mental health. If you consume garlic on a regular basis for its health benefits, you need not stop completely; just avoid this herb in the week prior to your injections. Garlic has blood thinning properties and can increase bleeding. This can increase the magnitude and duration of your injection-related bruises.
• Ginko Bilboa. Another popular health supplement with incredible health benefits, ginko bilboa is frequently consumed to improve mental and social health. Like garlic, however, ginko bilboa thins your blood and decreases your body's ability to clot, which results in more pronounced bruising.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fishes, cod liver and fish oil, vegetable oils, and walnuts. You might eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids or take a fish oil supplement to maximize on the heart-healthy benefits. Stop taking these supplements and cut down on foods high in these fatty acids; the cardiovascular benefits lead to increased bruising.

After Your Procedure

When you leave your cosmetic surgeon's office after your procedure, you are not out of the woods yet. There are some things that you should avoid to ensure that you recover properly.

• Alcohol. There's no denying it: after your injections, a celebratory cocktail might sound like a great idea. Wait a few days before you celebrate your youthfulness, though. Dizziness and drowsiness are two common side effects of botulism injections, and alcohol will only enhance these side effects. Furthermore, alcohol dehydrates you, leaving your skin dry. This can interfere with the healing process, and while it will not immediately undo the effects of your procedure, alcohol can increase the development of wrinkles.
• Spicy Foods. Your cosmetic surgeon probably told you to avoid exercise in the 48 hours following your procedure. That's because sweat can have a negative effect on your results. Like exercise, spicy foods can make you sweat, so unless you know how your body responds to spicy things, you should avoid them for a few days.
• Salty Foods. For a few days, you will notice some swelling around the injection sites. During this time, avoid foods and drinks that are high in sodium. Salty things cause you to retain water, and excess sodium will only worsen the swelling.

Parting Thoughts

If you are taking any additional supplements or medications, tell your cosmetic surgeon during your consultation. If any of these things will increase side effects or slow down the recovery period, your cosmetic surgeon can tell you in advance. For more information, speak with a business like The Vein Treatment Centre.