Wrinkle Relaxing Injections
What are wrinkle relaxing injections?
Wrinkle relaxing injections involve the injection of minute doses of BTX into muscles that cause expression lines (for example the frown lines between the eyebrows. This temporarily blocks nerve signals from reaching the muscle and as a consequence the muscle relaxes and the overlying skin becomes smoother.
What is BTXa?
BTXa is a naturally occuring protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. It has been used in medicine for many years including the treatment of spasticity in Cerebral Palsy and squints (strabismus). It was during the treatment of patients with the neurological condition ‘blepharospasm’ (uncontrolled contraction of the eyelid muscles) in the late 1980’s that a Canadian opthalmologist, Dr Jean Carruthers observed a side effect of this treatment was a reduction in the appearance of crows feet. Further trials have led to the widespread cosmetic use of Botulinum Toxin, making it one of the most popular non-surgical procedures in the world.
What areas can be treated?
The commonest areas treated are in the upper 1/3 of the face and include;
- Frown Lines (between the eyebrows)
- Forehead Lines
- Crows Feet (either side of the eyes)
Additional advanced areas that can be injected include:
- Chemical Brow Lift (to raise the eyebrows)
- Bunny Lines (side of the nose)
- Pebble Chin (chin dimpling)
- Lower eyelids (in suitable individuals)
- Vertical Lip Lines
- Necklace Lines
- Platysmal Bands (Nefertiti Neck Lift)
What happens during treatment?
Prior to treatment Dr Kent will take a medical history and assess your suitability for treatment. If suitable for treatment both your expectations and those of Dr Kent will be discussed. If you are happy to proceed with treatment you will be required to sign a consent form indicating you understand the treatment and its potential side effects. The treatment itself is relatively quick and after cleaning the skin with antiseptic a series of injections are made into the relevant muscles using a very fine needle.
Are the results of treatment instant?
No, results typically show between 7 and 14 days after treatment.
How long do the results of treatment last?
The results of treatment usually last 3 to 4 months at which point repeat treatment can be performed.
