Why do we get wrinkles?

Wrinkles and facial lines result from ageing, muscle activity and your genetic predisposition. In addition, sun exposure, alcohol consumption and smoking can also increase the evidence of wrinkles. Use of the facial muscles creases the skin when we frown, smile or raise our eyebrows. As we get older, these creases become deeper and more pronounced through constant use.

What is Botulinum Toxin Type-A?

Botulinum Toxin Type-A has been in use for over 20 years as a treatment for squints and nervous ticks. The substance is produced by bacteria, and is then highly refined, purified and diluted. This treatment is probably the most popular cosmetic medical treatment for facial lines and wrinkles in the UK and can be used successfully in combination with other rejuvenation treatments.

How does it work?

It works by temporarily relaxing the muscles under the skin so that when you frown or smile, the treated muscles stay relaxed and don’t crease the skin.

What can this muscle relaxing treatment be used for?

Softening lines in the facial area, i.e. the forehead (horizontal forehead lines); eyes (crows feet); frown lines between the eyebrows; neck area; under eyes; chin. It is also very successful at treating excessive perspiration (hyperhidrosis), which can be a problem for some people.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

Subject to initial medical screening, both men and women of any age can benefit from the treatment. You should NOT have treatment if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

What happens during the treatment?

A very small amount of the anti-wrinkle product is injected into the muscles in the face using a small needle. Depending on the area being treated, there may be a series of injections.

How long does treatment take?

In most cases, the treatment will take between 10 and 20 minutes for a single area and is not painful and so a local anaesthetic is not required. Most people only experience mild discomfort and this can be minimised by the application of a Topical Anaesthetic Cream.

There is sometimes a slight swelling and redness straight after treatment, which settles within a few hours.

When will I notice a difference?

The effect starts to work in about 4-5 days, with the greatest effect being seen after about 2-3 weeks and they normally last for 3-5 months depending on each person’s response. Repeat treatments have been shown to have a longer lasting effect.

How many times can I be treated with these temporary muscle relaxing injections?

A treatment of this type can typically be carried out indefinitely.

What happens Pre and Post-Treatment?

You will need to complete a medical questionnaire to ensure there is no reason why you cannot receive treatment. After your treatment you will be given an after-care leaflet which tells you what to do in the first few hours after treatments. You will normally be able to return to your usual daily activities after treatment.

Are there any adverse effects?

In a small number of cases there may be some localised bruising, slight swelling or redness at the site of the injections. This usually disappears within a few hours. A temporary drooping of the eyelid has also occurred in some patients, but again this soon disappears.

Do the effects of this treatment look artificial?

No. Unlike some surgical procedures, this treatment works on specific muscles. All other muscles and face tissue are unaffected.

Can Botulinum toxin be used to treat excessive sweating?

Yes. It can be injected into the skin to treat symptoms of severe underarm sweating, where medicines have not worked. It is not known whether botulinum toxin used for severe sweating is safe or effective used anywhere other than your armpits.

What is it’s mode of action in treatment of hyperhidrosis?

It works by blocking the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands. When the sweat glands don’t receive chemical signals, the severe sweating stops. It will therefore temporarily stop the production of sweat.

How much will it cost?

The costs for this treatment can vary based on the treatment that you are opting for, so it is important to discuss charges and treatment options with your dentist before starting treatment.