FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is anti-wrinkle treatment?
Botox® , Azzalure®, Dysport® are the trade names for Botulinum toxin, produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Several types of toxins have been identified, but type A, which is used commercially, is the most potent. Botox is a muscle relaxant used to treat number of conditions in the body like excessive sweating, chronic migraine, urine incontinence etc. The results however, is temporary, as the new growth of nerves will re-innervate the muscles. Botox was first used cosmetically in 1990, to reduce facial wrinkles arising from muscle contraction.
When injected into the muscles that are responsible for expression wrinkles, it gives the face a more relaxed and smoother appearance.
What can you expect at the time of your procedure?
Botox is injected directly into the muscles that cause the wrinkles, using a very small needle. Several injections are usually needed at specific sites, depending on the area treated. No sedation or local anaesthesia is generally required but topical numbing cream can be used to reduce the discomfort.
What are the results?
Botox usually takes effect 3-5 days after injection, with maximum effect in about 2 weeks. Its effects generally last for approximately 3-6 months. When injected into the muscles that are responsible for expression wrinkles, it gives the face a more relaxed and smoother appearance.
Is Botox Safe?
Yes, It is medically approved and safe procedure.
What are the limitations?
Whilst Botox can be very effective in reducing wrinkles due to muscle contractions, it has no effect in reducing the fine lines on the face caused by sun damage, and lines due to sagging of facial skin. In those patients with very heavy lines, repeated treatments may be needed for maximum effect.
Who should not get Botox treatment?
People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, those with infection/inflammation at the proposed site of injections, bleeding disorders and neuromuscular disease should not have Botox.
What are the side effects?
Side effects are mild bruising, swelling and occasional headache. No severe complications after cosmetic use of Botox have been reported. Very rarely excessive weakening of the target muscles and paresis of adjacent muscles can occur, resulting in facial weakness. This is self-limiting. When injecting above the eyebrows, upper eyelid ptosis or slight drooping may occur but only 1:100. This can be partially corrected with eyedrops but will also improve as the effects of the Botox wear off.
What is advised after treatment?
For 24 hours, avoid touching the treated area, use of makeup, alcohol, hot bath, sun beds and strenuous exercise. You can use arnica tablets prior to treatment to reduce bruising and also use arnica cream after treatment to reduce bruising. Sun screen SPF50 is advisable after treatment.
