Botox is a substance that is derived from Botulinum toxin, which works by preventing nerve impulses from reaching the muscle; therefore the muscles "relax".
Botox injections are the most common facial cosmetic treatment currently used worldwide.
As part of facial rejuvenation procedures Botox has now been used for many years and by many women and men. It is not only for celebrities, but also by those who wish to restore a youthful look.
Wrinkle relaxing procedures are safe, and last about 6 to 9 months.
The injections are almost painless and an anaesthetic cream can be applied to the skin for 20 minutes before injections if preferred.
We use a product called Dysport®, which is the same as Botox, only manufactured by a different company.
What is Dysport®?
Botulinum Toxin was best known in the late 1970’s for food poisoning or Botulism. Since the early 1990’s Botulinum Toxin commonly known as Botox® was developed to treat conditions including cerebral palsy, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the palms, feet or underarms) and more recently for its cosmetic use in the treatment of frown and laughter lines or crows feet. There are several different trade names of Botulinum Toxin and these include Dysport, Vistabel, and Neurobloc.
How does Dysport® work?
Botulinum Toxin is injected with a very fine needle into the muscle. It works on the nerve endings preventing the release of chemical messages or neuron transmitters, causing the muscle to become temporarily paralysed. The effects can usually be seen within 10-14 days. Limiting the muscle activity softens and smoothes out the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles.
Which areas can be treated?
The most common areas for treatment are the forehead (frown lines) eye area (crow’s feet or laughter lines) above nose (worry lines).
Are there any side effects?
The most common minor side effects are tenderness or mild bruising around the injection site. In a very small percentage of cases there may be a complication called ptosis or drooping of the eyelid which may last a few weeks.
Is the treatment painful?
A mild stinging sensation may be felt for a few seconds during treatment. A very small gauge needle is used for the procedure and once the injections are complete there is usually no discomfort. There may be slight redness around the injection sites which will normally resolve within a few hours.
What can I do after treatment?
Do not lie down for at least 6 hours.
Do not rub the treated area.
Air travel is not advisable for 7 days post treatment
How long will the effects last?
Usually between 4-8 months but this depends on the number of previous treatments, the treatment area and the individual’s response.
A comprehensive and informative consultation will be carried out prior to treatment. |
