Wrinkle Reduction (Botox) - Used in the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles.
On this page...
- Wrinkle Reduction Injections (Botulinum Toxin Type A)
- How does it work?
- Where can it be used?
- What happens in the consultation?
- What happens during treatment?
- What happens after treatment?
- What should I do after treatment?
- Are there any risks and side effects?
Wrinkle Reduction Injections (Botulinum Toxin Type A)
Botulinum toxin injections are now the UK's number one treatment for facial lines and wrinkles. Facial lines are caused by repeated use of the facial muscles for expressions such as squinting and frowning. Botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles lying under the skin. Facial lines that are formed by the repeated contraction of these underlying muscles will then reduce or even eventually disappear. Not only is it effective for softening existing lines but the formation of new wrinkles can also be prevented.
How does it work?
The treatment involves very small injections being given in to the muscle, once administered you are able to continue with your normal daily routine. It works by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles that are responsible for facial wrinkles. The lines will begin to soften after three - five days, and it can take up to two weeks to see the full effects. Results last between three - four months, although repeat treatments have been shown to last longer. The aim of the treatment is to break the habit of the muscles and so reduce the development of wrinkles.
Where can it be used?
Eyes - to reduce crow's feet
Between eyes - to reduce frown lines
Forehead - to reduce furrows
Mouth - to reduce the down turned effect of the mouth
Chin - to reduce dimple chin
What happens in the consultation?
The consultation is conducted prior to any treatment. Botulinum Toxin is a prescription only drug and therefore it is a legal requirement that a Nurse Prescriber or Doctor prescribe it. Your consultation will be with a Nurse Prescriber which means that your consultation will be in-depth, comprehensive and your treatment tailored to your specific requirements. A thorough medical history will be taken and the treatment process explained, this discussion will enable you to ask questions and identify areas requiring treatment. Once you are happy to commence with treatment a consent form will be signed.
What happens during treatment?
The skin is thoroughly cleaned and small amounts of Botulinum toxin will be injected with a micro fine needle. 
The injections are slightly uncomfortable but the treatment is very brief. Afterwards arnica cream or cold compresses are applied to help prevent redness and bruising.
What happens after treatment?
Initially there may be some red marks which will fade within an hour or so. Occasionally you may require a top up injection - usually performed two-four weeks later. It is always better to inject a conservative amount the first time and add more if required.
What should I do after treatment?
The aftercare is important and you will be given a leaflet to take home with instructions to follow. These include:
- Do not massage the treated area at all. If the area is washed, pat dry very gently with a soft towel. Do not rub the treated area for 48 hours.
- Do not bend excessively or lie down for at least 4 hours
- Do exercise the treated muscles by tensing them and relaxing them for the first hour after treatment.
- Do not fly for 12 hours.
- Finally, treatment with Botulinum toxin is temporary and to maintain the effects treatment is recommended every 3 to 6 months.
Are there any risks and side effects?
Treatment with Botulinum toxin is a very safe treatment, but occasionally side effects can occur.
- Slight bruising at injection site, this is not common but more likely around the eyes.
- Slight redness post treatment.
- Occasionally headaches can occur, these are transient.
- Slight drooping of the eyelid- this normally resolves in a week or two.