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What Is Botox for Migraine Prevention?
Botox is an FDA‑approved treatment for chronic migraines, defined as 15 or more headache days per month. Unlike cosmetic Botox, migraine Botox targets pain pathways, reducing the frequency, severity, and duration of migraine attacks.
✅ FDA‑approved since 2010
✅ Reduces headache days by 8–9 days per month on average
✅ Works best when performed by a trained physician
Why Injection Technique Matters
Migraine Botox is not cosmetic Botox. The injection pattern, depth, and muscle targeting are completely different.
Incorrect technique can cause:
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😵 Droopy brows
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🫨 “Bobble‑head” neck weakness
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🤕 Worsening headaches
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❌ No improvement in migraine frequency
At Botox O‘ahu, injections are performed by a physician trained in migraine‑specific protocols, ensuring precision, safety, and maximum therapeutic benefit.
How Botox Works for Migraines
Botox reduces migraine attacks by blocking the release of pain‑related neurotransmitters, including:
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🔥 CGRP
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⚡ Glutamate
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🔄 Acetylcholine
This prevents activation of pain circuits and calms overactive nerves involved in chronic migraine

Botox Injection Sites for Migraine Prevention
Botox is injected into 31 sites across 7 muscle groups, following the PREEMPT protocol used in clinical trials:
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💆♀️ Frontalis
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😐 Corrugator
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😠 Procerus
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🕰️ Temporalis
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🌀 Occipitalis
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🧍 Cervical paraspinals
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💪 Trapezius
This pattern targets the nerves responsible for migraine pain and prevents attacks before they start.


What to Expect During Treatment
A typical session includes:
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✅ 27 - 31 injections
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✅ 7 muscle groups
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✅ 20-30 minutes total
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✅ Minimal discomfort
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✅ No downtime
Botox is administered every 12 weeks, and most patients experience increasing benefit after each cycle.
How Well Botox Works
Clinical studies show:
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📉 8–9 fewer headache days per month
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🎯 50% reduction in migraine frequency for many patients
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💊 Reduced need for rescue medications
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😊 Improved quality of life
Most patients notice improvement after the second treatment cycle (12 weeks).
How Long Botox Takes to Work
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⏳ 2–4 weeks: Early improvement
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✅ 12 weeks: First full cycle
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⭐ 24 weeks: Maximum benefit for most patients
Botox builds effectiveness over time — consistency is key.

Insurance Coverage & Prior Authorization
Most insurance plans cover Botox for chronic migraines if you meet criteria:
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✅ 15+ headache days per month
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✅ Tried two or more preventive medications
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✅ Documented migraine history
Medicare and most commercial plans cover Botox when medically necessary. Our office handles:
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📄 Prior authorization
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🧾 Documentation
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💳 Botox Savings Program enrollment
Who Is a Good Candidate for Botox Migraine Treatment?
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You may be a strong candidate if you:
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Have chronic migraines (15+ headache days per month)
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Experience migraines lasting 4+ hours
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Have tried multiple preventive medications
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Want a long‑acting, non‑daily treatment
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Prefer a physician‑led, evidence‑based approach
Botox for Migraines FAQ
How many injections will I receive?
27 to 31 injections across 7 muscle groups.
Does it hurt?
Most patients describe it as quick pinches. Discomfort is minimal.
How long does the appointment take?
About 15–20 minutes.
How soon will I feel relief?
Most patients notice improvement after 4–6 weeks, with full benefit at 12–24 weeks.
Will insurance cover it?
Yes, if you meet criteria. We handle all paperwork.
Why Choose Botox O‘ahu
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👩⚕️ Physician‑led care by Dr. Kathryn Schaefer, MD
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🎯 Expert injection technique for maximum relief
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🧠 Hundreds of migraine patients treated
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📄 Insurance and prior authorization handled for you
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📍 Convenient East O‘ahu location in Aina Haina
This is migraine care done right — safe, precise, and effective.



