Common questions concerning wrinkle relaxing injections

Provided below are some of the common questions and answers regarding this treatment. These questions are to provide information and in no way intended to replace a consultation.

How Can I Find Out If I Am A Candidate For Treatment?

If you would like to learn more about your cosmetic options, or find out if Botulinum A treatments might work well for you, please arrange a consultation with a qualified physician.

What is Botulinum A ?

Botulinum A is made from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. Although it is the chemical that causes botulism, in very dilute quantities it has been used medically for over a decade to provide relief from muscle spasms by causing a temporary paralysis of the muscles into which it is injected. There is no reported risk of botulism using this very dilute concentration of the chemical.

What are the Benefits?

The muscles of facial expression are connected to the skin overlying them. After years of use, the muscles create visible lines and creases. By paralysing the superficial muscles attached to the skin, wrinkles "relax" and soften. When the muscles are paralysed, the creation of more wrinkles is prevented. The overall effect is a smoother, more serene, more youthful appearance. It’s like having a "brow lift" without invasive surgery.

Is it Safe?

Botulinum A has been widely used for cosmetic purposes for a decade, and has been enthusiastically endorsed by those who have used it. It is impossible to get botulism poisoning from Botulinum A injections.

What Wrinkles Can Be Treated?

The most commonly treated areas are the forehead, around the eyes and between the eyebrows. Crow’s feet can be softened; the furrow between the brows can be diminished and forehead wrinkles can be lessened.

Can I Still Move My Face?

Yes, but not as much. Extreme movements of the forehead and eyebrows, which create the wrinkles, will be prevented, but other muscles in the face will not be affected.

How Long Will the Treatment Take?

A very small amount of the diluted drug is injected directly into the muscle in the desired treatment area. The procedure is very quick and is performed while you are sitting upright in the clinic treatment room. It is important to remain in an upright position for two to three hours after the treatment so the Botulinum A will remain in place in the treated area.

Does It Hurt?

Individuals vary in their response. Some people experience stinging while Botulinum A is being injected, but there is rarely any pain following treatment. The application of ice packs to the areas before treatment will decrease the discomfort associated with the injections.

How Long Will the Results Last?

Again, individuals vary. However, for most people the results last for upwards of six months. Facial muscles that are larger (such as in men) or which are used a lot by facially "expressive" patients may require treatments more frequently. Often the facial muscles become "trained" to not move as much so that, over time, less treatment is needed to keep the facial lines relaxed.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Temporary bruising is the most common side effect. In some cases, the toxin can migrate and cause a temporary weakness of nearby muscles. In rare cases, there can be a drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of facial expression. The risk of any side effect depends upon the muscles injected. The doctor will discuss this with you during the initial consultation, prior to treatment. Because the effects of Botox are completely reversible, any side effects are temporary, lasting usually only a couple of weeks.

Are There Any Medical Exclusions?

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should wait to be treated. Anyone with a neuromuscular or bleeding disorder or those with skin disease in the treatment area are not candidates for Botulinum A treatment, however you may be suited to an alternate product. Enquire during your initial consultation. The doctor will review your medical history with you during your initial consultation prior to administering treatment.

How Much Does It Cost?

This is dependant on the area being treated.

Pre-Treatment Instruction:

Avoid aspirin, aspirin-containing products and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents for ten days prior to treatment, as these may increase chance of bleeding and/or bruising. Avoid alcohol for one week prior to treatment, as it can also increase chance of bleeding and/or bruising.

Post-Treatment Instructions:

Remain in an upright position for two to three hours after treatment. Avoid alcohol aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents for at least two days. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours. Paracetamol (not aspirin) may be used for any lingering discomfort.