WRINKLE RELAXING INJECTIONS
Ageing is associated with the development of wrinkles and furrows on the face. These lines may develop as a result of weakened dermal collagen from sun exposure and gravity, or due to facial muscle action on the skin. Botox is a fabulous treatment that relaxes the muscles and diminishes the appearance of facial lines.
- BOTULINUM TOXIN
Botulinum Toxin reversibly relaxes the muscle therefore it is used to treat facial lines caused by muscle movement. The ideal areas to treat include the deep crease between the eyebrows, crow's feet wrinkles and forehead lines.
Injection into frown lines has been shown to be very successful. Good results may be obtained after a single injection session and may last three to six months. The effect of the injection may take up to 21 days to work. Other areas that benefit from this treatment are forehead lines and crows feet.
- ARE INJECTIONS PAINFUL?
Most patients find the injections cause mild, temporary discomfort.
- HOW WILL I LOOK AFTER THE TREATMENT?
Immediately after the injections there may be mild swelling which usually subsides within 24-48hrs. Application of ice after treatment will help reduce any swelling. We also give patients Arnica gel to apply to the treatment area, this is a natural topical cream that works by reducing the possibility of bruising.
- POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS?
Side effects of Botox are documented to be rare. Occasionally a temporary drooping of the eyebrow or eyelid may occur but only lasts a few weeks. Rarely, a transient numbness may develop in the treated area. Patients very unusually develop antibodies to the botulinum toxin. In one study less than 3% of patients experienced any of these complications. Mild bruising may occur. If you are prone to cold sores at the injection site then treatment may bring out another eruption. Finally, any injection carries a small risk of infection. If you are pregnant or breast feeding the treatment is not recommended.
- HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Repeat treatments are usually needed every 3-4 months. Clinical trials report that some patients who have had treatment over 12 months are requiring further treatment only twice a year. Please note that it takes up to 21 days for the Botulinum Toxin to work. Increased use of the treated muscles for 2 hrs after injection will help speed up the onset of the effect.
Botox is not suitable for younger skin and best effects are seen on static lines.
