Anti-Wrinkle Treatments FAQs

What is Botulinum Toxin (BTX)?

Botulinum toxin is a naturally occurring protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. In a purified form, BTX is a very safe, effective treatment used not only for cosmetic purposes to reduce wrinkles, but also to treat a number of medical conditions, for example migraines and excessive sweating.

What can be treated?

Botulinum toxin is most commonly used to treat frown lines, the lines across the forehead and crow’s feet. It can be used to help treat asymmetry and provide a ‘brow lift’.

How does it work?

The toxin blocks the transition of chemical messages from the nerve to the muscle so that the muscle stays in a resting state for a period of 12-18 weeks on average. The amount of reduction of the movement will depend on how much toxin is administered and the location of the product placement. It can vary from allowing some movement or a full block, which will inhibit most of the muscular movement in the area. The consultation will determine whether your expectations can be met and thus the treatment will be tailored to suit your needs.

Does it hurt?

The treatment is usually tolerated very well and not often described as painful. A very fine needle is used. However a topical anaesthetic cream can be used to take the edge off if you are nervous about needles.

How quickly will I notice results?

The toxin works gradually and the full effects will be seen typically between 10 days and 2 weeks.

How many treatments will I need?

The effects of Botulinum Toxin often last up to four months but do depend on the patient. Regular treatment is needed in order to maintain the results and if you do decide to stop treatment, permanent lines and wrinkles will return.

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Dermal Filler Treatments FAQs

Dermal fillers can enhance the shape and fullness of areas of your face without any surgical intervention.

What is Dermal Filler?

The majority of dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid. This is a naturally occurring sugar chain molecule found in all skin and soft tissues throughout the body. It attracts and binds water in the skin, resulting in volume and hydration.

What can be treated?

• LIPS – to define the borders and enhance fullness of lips
• CHEEKS, JAWLINE, NOSE, CHIN – to enhance these features
• WRINKLES & FOLDS – to soften these nose to mouth lines and the lines running down from the corners of the mouth (marionette lines)

How does it work?

A clear sterile gel is injected into the skin providing instant correction.

Does it hurt?

A topical anaesthetic cream will be placed on the area to be treated and the dermal filler itself contains a local anaesthetic to make it more comfortable. A complete nerve block can also be given to make it completely pain free.

What should I do before the treatment?

All make up will need to be removed beforehand. Alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen and dietary supplements including St. Johns Wort, fish oils and Gingo Biloba may worsen potential bruising and should be avoided 24 hours before and after treatment. We will not be able to carry out treatment if there is an active skin infection such as cold sores or acne, or if you are unwell.

How quickly will I notice results?

You will see the results immediately but there will be some swelling which may get worse in the first 24 hours but will settle in the first few days.  There may also be some bruising after treatment, which may take a few days to appear.

How many treatments will I need?

Most last between 6-12 months but can vary between individuals.