Botulinum Toxin (often referred to as Botox) is injected into specific muscles of the face to relax the muscles and soften the appearance of wrinkles.
TREATMENT AREAS
Most commonly treated areas include:
– Laughter lines (aka Crows Feet): wrinkles to the side of the eyes caused by laughing or squinting.
– Frown lines: vertical lines between the eye brows (the glabellar region)
– Forehead lines: horizonal lines caused by raising eyebrows
Many other areas can also be treated and can be discussed in more detail during a consultation.
BEFORE TREATMENT
It is not unusual for people to feel nervous if they have not had Botox injections before. It is possible to achieve a very natural look, with the aim of freshening the face rather than creating an expressionless face. Treatment can be tailored to each individual’s preferences and is always discussed prior to treatment.
Medical questionnaire and consent forms are completed prior to treatment. Importantly, treatment in pregnant or breastfeeding women is not recommended.
Photographs are taken before and after for comparison at a follow up appointment.
DURING TREATMENT
Very thin needles are used to inject Botox into the desired areas. Most people find the procedure only causes temporary discomfort for a few seconds.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Most common side effects include:
- mild redness and swelling around the injection site – this normally subsides within 15 – 30minutes and most patients are able to continue their day with no evidence of treatment being performed
- bruising – if this occurs is is usually very mild and can be covered with makeup. It is usually recommended to avoid treatment 1-2 weeks before a special occasion in case this occurs
- headache – some patients may experience a mild headache 12-24 hours after injection
AFTER TREATMENT
It can take up to two weeks to see the full effects of the treatment. These results can be expected to last approximately 4 months.
Follow up is offered 2 weeks following initial treatment with a top-up as needed, free of charge.