Muscle relaxing injections
Used mostly to correct the frown lines between the eyebrows, ‘laughter lines’ and ‘crowsfeet’, the injection of Botulinum toxin has been used successfully as a cosmetic treatment for nearly twenty years. It works by relaxing the facial muscles that cause lines, allowing the overlying skin to remain smooth and wrinkle free.
Botox injectlons are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world and have been safely used with no long-term side effects for over twenty years.
What is it and does it work?
Botox first began to be used in 1980 to treat a number of muscle disorders such as lazy eye, eye ticks and uncontrolled blinking. Cosmetic treatments were pioneered by dermatological surgeons in 1987. Now Botox is most commonly used to treat three different areas: the frown lines between the eyebrows, the horizontal forehead llnes, and 'crow's feet' or 'laughter llnes'. Botox is a purified preparation of botulinum toxin Type A, obtained from The bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When Injected Into muscle tissue In small quantities, Botox causes a temporary relaxation of the treated facial muscles allowing the lines to soften over a few weeks to months. The overlying skin remains smooth and unwrinkled while the untreated facial muscles continue to work In a normal fashion, allowing normal facial expression to be unaffected by the treatment.
Does it hurt?
We use very fine needles and a cooling device on the skin just prior to treatment to keep discomfort to a minimum.
Are there any side-effects?
There are very few side effects of this procedure. Occasionally temporary numbness or a mild headache may be experienced although Botox is being used to treat migraine successfully in some patients. Minimal bruising may occur at the site of infection. In 1% of patients or less a temporary droop of the brow or eyelid may occur. While allergy to any medicine Is possible allergic reactlons to Botox are extremely rare,
How long does the treatment take?
Depending on the number of areas to be treated the sesslon may take 15-30 minutes. You will be advised what to expect at your initial consultation,
How long will the effects of the treatment last?
Injections take effect about 3 - 7 days after treatment and the effect Iasts three to four months. Repeat injections will be required after this period of time to maintain the skin smoothing effects. After several treatments, the effects of Botox begin to Iast longer, sometimes up to 6 - 8 months.
What aftercare will I need?
Simple aftercare instructions will be given following your treatment.