What is Botulinum Toxin used for?
Many lines and wrinkles are caused by the repeated creasing of the skin when we make facial expressions. If we can reduce the muscle activity of certain areas of the face then the creased skin recovers and the lines soften if not disappear. In younger skins it can be used to prevent lines developing. Areas for treatment include:
- glabellar (frown) wrinkles
- crows feet
- forehead wrinkles
- smoker’s lines (lines around lips)
- dimple chin correction
- hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
What does the Botox® treatment involve?
After your initial consultation tiny injections are administered into the superficial muscles that cause the unwanted lines. For a short time the injection sites may be a little red and bumpy resembling small bee stings. This usually settles within a couple of hours. Bruising can occur. Some people may experience a dull headache for a few days; this is not a cause for concern and will wear off. Occasionally drooping of the eyelid can occur but is extremely unlikely if post procedure guidelines are followed.
The full effect of the treatment develops gradually over the next 3-14 days. It is important you attend a follow up appointment in 2 weeks time to assess the results. The length of time between appointments will vary from person to person depending on facial activity and lifestyle factors. The muscle will begin to recover some movement by about 6-8 weeks but the lines will take longer to return. We recommend follow up treatment after approximately 3 months. After each subsequent treatment the muscles usually take longer to recover as the lack of exercise makes them weaker. After the initial course of treatments in the first year, the dose will be tailored to best suit your individual needs with most people requiring maintenance of two treatments a year. As Botulinum Toxin Type A has no permanent effect, if the treatment is stopped the muscles will resume their activity as before.
