Botox Treatment
Every time we laugh, smile or frown, the muscles in our faces contract and cause dynamic wrinkles to form. These form the basis of facial expressions. Inevitably, over time, permanent fine lines or wrinkles will start to appear across the forehead (frown lines) between the eyebrows (glabellar region) and around the eyes (crow’s feet)
Using injections of Botulinum Toxin, commonly called Botox®, it is possible to relax the facial muscle and reduce these dynamic wrinkles and the formation of permanent wrinkles. It is a naturally occurring protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is usually the Type A toxin that is used, under the brand names Botox® Dysport® and Vistabel®.
How does Botulinum toxin work?
Botulinum toxin works by blocking the transmission of nerve signals to the muscles and stopping them from contracting. This gives a smoother, less-wrinkled appearance to the skin in the area injected. The rest of the face in unaffected and therefore you will still be able to laugh, smile and frown, but with less wrinkling of the skin.
How long will the effects last?
The effects of the Botulinum toxin injections will last about 3-6 months, so it is necessary to have repeat injections to maintain the effects about every 3-6 months.
Is it safe?
Botulinum toxin was originally used in the 19th century to treat excessive sweating. In the 20th century it began to be used for the treatment of squints and spasm of the eyelids. Botulinum toxin has been used extensively for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles on the face since the late 1980s.
Possible side effects of treatment include headache, minor redness, and swelling, bruising or bleeding at the injection sites. These are all temporary and are not serious.
Who can be treated?
There are only a few situations where Botulinum toxin treatment would not be used. These include if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, taking certain medications or suffer from rare muscle diseases.
Does it hurt?
Most people experience very little discomfort as the needles used for the injections are tiny. Some people compare the sensation to an insect bite.