Woman receiving a BOTOX® injection from a provider. (MODELS)

Medical spa treatments may be an attractive alternative to surgery, but “minimally invasive” does not always translate to “pain-free.” Your comfort and safety are our top priorities at Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa. If you’re asking, if you are wondering if BOTOX (or another procedure) is painful, we want to put your mind at ease by helping you know what to expect and how our staff goes the extra mile to ensure your comfort.

Before & After BOTOX® Cosmetic Case 50 View #1 View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Injectables Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After BOTOX® Cosmetic Case 44 View #1 View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Injectables Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After Dermal Fillers Case 203 Front View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Injectables Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After Dermal Fillers Case 12 View #1 View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Injectables Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa

Are BOTOX & Filler Injections Painful?

Since the needles used are very fine, patients typically experience a mild, quick pinching sensation with each injection. We can apply a topical numbing cream, local anesthetic, or nerve block beforehand to ensure your comfort.

Most dermal fillers are also formulated with lidocaine or another numbing agent, so even without any additional measures, the procedure is designed to minimize pain. BOTOX and dermal fillers are two of the most popular medical spa procedures and are typically well-tolerated. Many patients combine neuromodulators with fillers as part of a comprehensive “liquid facelift.” Find out if this dual procedure is right for you in our related blog post.

The thought of needles (and multiple injections) may be a bit intimidating at first, but don’t worry. We are one of the top providers in Iowa for injectables and have expertly honed our technique for the safest, smoothest treatment possible.

What Do Laser Treatments Feel Like?

We apply a numbing cream prior to treatment, but you can typically expect to feel a warmth or a mild stinging sensation (akin to a rubber band snapping against the skin).

We offer a range of laser and light treatments, from laser hair removal to laser skin resurfacing with non-ablative and hybrid fractional lasers. These treatments vary in intensity, but we have carefully selected lasers that don’t require lengthy downtimes. Depending on your goals and preferences, we can recommend the best treatment for your needs.

Before & After Laser Treatments Case 33 View #1 View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Laser Treatment Before and After Pictures - Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After Laser Treatments Case 29 View #1 View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Laser Treatment Before and After Pictures - Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After Laser Treatments Case 34 Right Side View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
Laser Treatment Before and After Pictures - Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa

Do Chemical Peels Hurt?

Your skin will be numbed prior to a chemical peel, so you shouldn’t experience discomfort during the procedure. When it comes to chemical peels, you’ll have a range of options to choose from. Deeper peels will create more dramatic results, but they will also come with more downtime and a more intense recovery period as the damaged skin flakes and peels away. We can discuss your options for pain management during a consultation to determine the appropriate strength for your chemical peel.

Is Microneedling Painful?

We cleanse and numb your skin beforehand, and the handheld microneedling devices use tiny, ultrafine needles, so you should only feel what most patients describe as a vibrating sensation. Whether you choose traditional microneedling or add RF energy to it, we will keep you comfortable throughout. Most patients find it much more manageable than they had expected.

Is CoolSculpting® Uncomfortable?

Your treatment area may feel like it’s being tugged as the device suctions it, and you will feel intense cold that lasts only a few minutes. Many patients can relax enough to read, scroll on their phones, or even nap during their CoolSculpting session!

Before & After CoolSculpting® Case 305 Front View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
CoolSculpting Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After CoolSculpting® Case 304 Front View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
CoolSculpting Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa
Before & After CoolSculpting® Case 251 Front View in West Des Moines & Ames, IA
CoolSculpting Before and After Pictures by Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery and Spa

Find Your Perfect Treatment Today

The Koch & Carlisle med spa staff are highly trained and experienced. Regardless of which procedure you choose, we take every precaution to soothe any worries and make your treatment experience as enjoyable as possible.

To discover your ideal treatment regimen, please request a consultation online or call us at (515) 277-5555 to book your appointment.

Leave a Reply

Fields marked with * are required.

New Patient Paperwork Contact