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What Is Trap Tox?

Trap tox is a growing trend that involves the injection of a neurotoxin—usually Botox—into the trapezius muscle. This treatment can be performed for several different reasons. For patients looking to improve their appearance, trap tox can give the shoulders a slimmer, less masculine appearance and elongate the neck. Additionally, the popular treatment can be quite effective in reducing pain and tension in the neck and shoulders.


How Does Trap Tox Work?

Injectable treatments such as Botox and Dysport contain the active ingredient botulinum toxin type A, which is a type of neurotoxin known as a neuromodulator. When this neurotoxin is injected into the trapezius muscle, it temporarily blocks communication between the nerves and the muscle. This prevents the muscle from contracting, which can alleviate tension and discomfort in the area. The neurotoxin also causes gradual muscle atrophy, which creates a slimming effect in the shoulders and makes the neck appear longer.

Benefits of Trap Tox?

Trap tox is an effective treatment that can offer several significant benefits, including:

  • Gives the shoulders a slimmer, more feminine appearance
  • Elongates the neck
  • Alleviates pain and tension in the neck and shoulders
  • Alleviates headaches and muscle spasms
  • Improved comfort when completing physical tasks
  • Improved comfort during exercise and athletic activities
  • Quick, non-invasive treatment
  • Little to no recovery downtime
  • Improved self-confidence and self-image
Trap Tox Pittsburgh

How Long Is the Recovery Time?

Typically, there is no recovery downtime required after trap tox treatment, and you should be able to resume your normal routine right away. However, it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours, and you’ll also need to refrain from rubbing or scratching your injection sites.

Am I a Candidate for Trap Tox?

Adults interested in alleviating neck and shoulder pain or having slimmer shoulders could be good candidates for trap tox. Ideal candidates for the procedure should:

  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Have realistic expectations for the treatment
  • Be experiencing pain and/or tension in the neck and shoulders
  • Have the desire for less masculine shoulders and an elongated neck
  • Have no active skin infections near the treatment area
  • Be free of allergies to botulinum toxin

How Long Will It Take To See Results From Trap Tox Treatment?

Usually, the effects of trap tox treatment start to become apparent after only two to four days, but the complete results can take around 10 to 14 days to develop. You can typically expect the effects of your trap tox treatment to last for around four to six months; after that, an additional treatment session will be needed to maintain the results.

Are There Any Side Effects?

The neurotoxins used in trap tox treatment can cause certain side effects, including:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Redness
  • Soreness
  • Itching
  • Headaches
  • Muscle weakness

Although it’s very rare, botulinum toxin can sometimes spread to other areas of the body after being injected. This can cause a serious condition called botulism. If you experience any of the following symptoms after your treatment, you should seek medical care immediately:

  • Severe muscle weakness
  • Vision changes
  • Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing
  • Allergic reaction

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Important message to all of our patients

Dr. Leong and his team are happy to announce, we are open and seeing patients for all surgical and non-surgical consults. The summer surgery schedule is rapidly filling up. Please call or contact us today to schedule your consultation.

We are following all state and federal guidelines for your protection and safety, including but not limited to: wearing gloves and masks, providing hand sanitizer, frequent cleaning, wiping down and sanitizing of all contact surfaces. As well as will maintain all standard Social Distancing protocols. Patients should not come in if achy, feverish or coughing or COVID positive test for active infection.

We are still utilizing virtual consultations, including to obtain initial information about treatment plans for new and returning patients. Our goal is to find the best balance between being available to our patients and maximizing their safety.

Please call our office or select the “Video Consultations Tab” to schedule a video discussion.

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