Most people considering cosmetic injections worry about the same handful of things, from whether it will hurt to how natural the results will actually look. Catherine Curtin NP has spent 18 years answering these exact questions at Beauty & Fly, helping patients move past their concerns and into treatments that feel right for them. Here’s what she wants you to know before your first appointment.
Table of Contents
Why People Hesitate Before Their First Treatment
More than 60% of people who say they want cosmetic injections wait over a year before actually booking their first appointment. That’s a lot of time spent thinking about something you already know you want. The gap between wanting better skin and actually doing something about it comes down to fear, confusion, and a whole lot of bad information floating around online.
The Fear Factor
Most people aren’t scared of the needle itself. They’re worried about what happens after. The biggest concern is looking fake or frozen, like those celebrity photos that make the rounds on social media. Nobody wants to walk out of a med spa looking like a different person or unable to move their face normally.
Here are the top worries people share before their first visit:
- Ending up with an unnatural or overdone appearance
- Experiencing pain during the injection process
- Having a bad reaction or side effects
- Not knowing if the provider is truly qualified
- Wasting money on treatments that don’t work
Social Media Makes Everything Worse
Instagram and TikTok are full of before-and-after photos, but they’re also packed with horror stories and myths. One viral video of a bad result can scare away thousands of potential patients. The problem is that dramatic content gets more views, so the worst cases get the most attention while the thousands of successful, natural-looking treatments never make it to your feed.
| Common Myth | What Actually Happens |
|---|---|
| Injections are extremely painful | Most people describe it as a quick pinch with minimal discomfort |
| Results look fake and obvious | Skilled providers like Catherine Curtin NP create subtle, natural enhancements |
| Your face will be frozen | Proper technique preserves natural movement and expression |
| Once you start, you can’t stop | Treatments are temporary and completely optional to continue |
The Provider Makes All the Difference
Here’s what most people don’t realize until they start researching. Not all providers have the same training or experience with cosmetic injections. Some have taken a weekend course while others, like Catherine Curtin NP at Beauty & Fly, have spent nearly two decades perfecting their technique and teaching other practitioners.
The right provider will:
- Listen to your concerns and aesthetic goals carefully
- Explain exactly what to expect during and after treatment
- Show you their own work and patient results
- Never pressure you into treatments you don’t want
Most hesitation comes from not having accurate information. When you sit down with an experienced provider who takes time to answer your questions, those fears start to make a lot less sense.
Safety and Side Effects Explained
Most people considering cosmetic injections have one big question on their minds: is this actually safe? It’s a fair concern when you’re letting someone put a needle in your face. The good news is that FDA-approved injectables like BOTOX and dermal fillers have been used safely for decades, with millions of treatments performed each year. These products go through rigorous testing before they ever reach a medical spa. But here’s what really matters: the person holding the syringe makes all the difference.
Safety and Side Effects Explained
Common side effects are usually pretty mild and temporary. We’re talking about things like slight bruising, redness at the injection site, or minor swelling that goes away within a few days. Serious complications are rare when treatments are performed by experienced providers who understand facial anatomy and proper injection techniques.
- Temporary bruising or swelling at injection sites
- Mild tenderness that resolves within 24-48 hours
- Occasional headache following neuromodulator treatments
- Rare allergic reactions (screened for during consultation)
Catherine Curtin’s approach at Beauty & Fly starts with thorough health screening before any treatment. She reviews your medical history, current medications, and any allergies to make sure you’re a good candidate. With over 18 years of experience in aesthetic medicine, she knows exactly what to look for and how to minimize risks. Product quality matters too, which is why only FDA-approved, authentic products are used at both the Bronxville and Bridgehampton locations.
The difference between a good outcome and a problem often comes down to provider expertise. Someone who truly understands facial anatomy knows where to inject, how much to use, and what to avoid.
Pain, Discomfort, and What Treatment Actually Feels Like
Let’s be honest about what injections actually feel like, because the fear is often worse than reality. Neuromodulators like BOTOX use very fine needles and most people describe it as a quick pinch or mosquito bite. The whole process takes just a few minutes, and you’re done before you know it. Dermal fillers can feel a bit different since they use slightly larger needles and more product volume, but they’re still very tolerable for most patients.
Pain, Discomfort, and What Treatment Actually Feels Like
Pain management options make a real difference in comfort levels. Numbing cream can be applied before treatment, and ice helps reduce sensation during the procedure. Many fillers also contain lidocaine, which numbs the area as the product is injected.
| Treatment Type | Sensation Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| BOTOX (Neuromodulators) | Mild pinching | 5-10 minutes |
| Dermal Fillers | Moderate pressure | 15-30 minutes |
| Biostimulators | Similar to fillers | 20-30 minutes |
If you have needle anxiety, you’re not alone. Catherine takes time to talk through the process and goes at your pace. Her gentle injection technique and years of experience mean she knows how to work efficiently while keeping you comfortable. Right after injections, you might feel slight tenderness or see some redness, but you can typically return to normal activities the same day.
Results, Timing, and Realistic Expectations
One of the most common questions Catherine hears is “when will I see results?” The answer depends entirely on what type of injectable you’re getting. BOTOX and other neuromodulators take about 3-5 days to start working, with full results visible around two weeks. This is because they need time to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, give you immediate volume and smoothing, though final results settle in over a few days as any swelling goes down.
The longevity of your results varies by product type and how your body metabolizes it. Neuromodulators typically last 3-4 months, while different fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on the formula and treatment area.
- Neuromodulators: Results appear in 3-14 days, last 3-4 months
- Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Immediate results, last 6-18 months
- Biostimulators: Gradual improvement over weeks, results last 2+ years
The “frozen face” fear is real, but it’s completely avoidable with the right approach. Catherine’s philosophy at Beauty & Fly centers on natural, graceful results that enhance your features rather than change them. She customizes every treatment plan based on your unique facial structure and goals. The goal is for people to notice you look refreshed and rested, not obviously “done.”
Maintenance matters if you want to keep your results. Most patients develop a treatment schedule that works with their lifestyle and budget, coming in every few months for touch-ups.
Cost Concerns and Treatment Value
Talking about money can feel awkward, but understanding injection costs helps you plan and budget appropriately. Several factors influence pricing, including the type of product used, the amount needed, and the treatment area. BOTOX is typically priced per unit, while fillers are priced per syringe. The number of units or syringes you need depends on your specific concerns and treatment goals.
Here’s something important to understand: cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to your face. The provider’s experience, the quality of products used, and the level of personalized care all contribute to your outcome. Beauty & Fly offers membership options and financing to make treatments more accessible without compromising on quality or safety.
- Product type and brand affect pricing
- Treatment area size determines amount needed
- Provider expertise adds value through better outcomes
- Membership programs can reduce per-treatment costs
Catherine’s 18 years of experience means she knows exactly how to achieve your desired results efficiently. She won’t over-treat or waste product, which actually saves you money in the long run. When you’re budgeting for aesthetic treatments, think about maintenance too. Most people find that regular, smaller treatments work better than waiting until concerns become more pronounced.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Getting cosmetic injections doesn’t have to feel scary or confusing. Most concerns people have about needles, pain, results, and downtime can be addressed with the right information and an experienced provider. When you understand what to expect, the whole process becomes much less stressful.
Catherine Curtin NP has spent over 18 years helping patients feel comfortable with aesthetic treatments. Her approach focuses on listening to your specific worries and creating a plan that makes sense for your goals. Every treatment at Beauty & Fly is done by Catherine herself, which means you get consistent care from someone who knows your face and your concerns.
The truth is, most injection concerns come from not knowing what happens during and after treatment. Things like bruising, swelling, and how long results last vary from person to person. That’s why a consultation matters more than reading generic information online.
If you’re still on the fence about whether injections are right for you, talking through your questions with someone experienced can help. Beauty & Fly has locations in both Bronxville and Bridgehampton, making it easier to schedule a conversation about your specific situation.
The best way to get answers tailored to your skin, your age, and your goals is to book a consultation. You’ll learn what’s realistic, what to avoid, and whether the timing is right for you.
Quick Answers to More Injection Questions
Most people have a few lingering questions before they book their first injection appointment. These are the ones Catherine Curtin NP hears most often at Beauty & Fly, and the answers might surprise you. Getting clear information upfront helps you feel confident about your decision and know exactly what to expect.
Can I go back to work after injections?
Yes, most patients return to work the same day or the next day. You might have some minor redness or swelling at the injection sites, but it’s usually easy to cover with makeup. The treatments are designed to fit into your regular schedule without requiring time off.
How do I choose between BOTOX and fillers?
BOTOX works on lines caused by muscle movement, like forehead lines and crow’s feet. Fillers add volume to areas that have lost fullness, like cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows. During your consultation, Catherine Curtin NP will assess your specific concerns and recommend the best option or combination for your goals.
What should I avoid before and after treatment?
Skip blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, and alcohol for a few days before your appointment to reduce bruising risk. After treatment, avoid intense exercise, lying flat, and touching the treated areas for 24 hours. Catherine provides detailed pre and post-care instructions tailored to your specific treatment.
Will people know I had work done?
Not if you don’t want them to. The goal at Beauty & Fly is natural enhancement, not an overdone look. People usually notice you look refreshed or well-rested rather than “done.” Catherine’s approach focuses on subtle improvements that enhance your features without changing who you are.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
Most healthy adults are good candidates for cosmetic injections. The best way to find out is through a consultation where Catherine evaluates your skin, discusses your concerns, and reviews your medical history. She’ll let you know honestly if injections will help you achieve your goals or if another treatment might work better.
What makes Catherine Curtin different from other providers?
Catherine brings over 18 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and trains other practitioners in advanced injection techniques. Every appointment is with her directly, not a rotating staff member. Her approach combines medical expertise with an artistic eye, and she takes time to listen and create a personalized plan rather than rushing through appointments.