Anti-wrinkle treatment

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic protein produced by a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. It is called neurotoxic because it affects the nerve it touches and prevents it from sending chemical signals to the muscle area. Muscles can contract when the brain sends signals via nerve conduction- that is how we show facial expressions or our gym gains. Therefore, by stopping it, we can relax the muscle groups- facial muscles are relaxed, which smoothes the wrinkle.  

 Anti-wrinkle treatments typically take 4 to 14 days to show results, as the toxin needs time to affect nerve signalling and relax the targeted muscles. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled two weeks after your treatment to assess the results and determine if additional botulinum toxin is needed.

The effects generally last 3 to 4 months, after which the nerve terminals in the treated muscles gradually recover. To maintain optimal results, it is recommended to repeat treatments every 3 to 4 months, but not sooner than 3 months.

 The amount of botulinum toxin depends on the areas being treated, the intensity of the wrinkles and previous treatment. It is advisable that you get your treatment from someone who is qualified, experienced and a prescriber. This is because anti-wrinkle treatment is a personalised treatment, which involves injecting a neurotoxin.

Discussing your expectations with Dr Alya is vital, as she will advise you on the best method and areas needing treatment. This, in turn, will provide you with the best results. 

Important Information Before Your Treatment

To ensure a safe and effective treatment, it’s essential to be honest about your medical history, including past and current medications, allergies, and any health concerns you’ve recently discussed with your GP or visited the hospital for.

Age and Treatment Considerations
Botulinum toxin is recommended for individuals between the ages of 25 and 65. Optimal results are usually seen when there are minimal static lines. If static lines are present, additional treatments (alternatives) may be required to achieve the desired outcome.

Suitability for Treatment
Certain conditions may make treatment unsuitable, including:

• Pregnancy, IVF, and Breastfeeding
• Neurological conditions such as myasthenia gravis

Contraindications
Treatment is not suitable if you:

• Are allergic to botulinum toxin
• Have had recent facial surgery or dermal filler treatments in the treatment area

Temporary Restrictions
In some cases, treatment may need to be postponed:

• Infections: Depending on the location and severity, infections may take 7-10 days to heal before treatment can proceed.
• Cold Sores: May require antiviral treatment for 5 days and a waiting period before treatment.
• Medications: Some medications, like aspirin, warfarin, or NSAIDs, may need to be paused 5 days prior to treatment unless prescribed for a medical condition.
• Important Events: If you have an important event within two weeks of treatment, it’s best to avoid the procedure to allow any side effects (like swelling or bruising) to subside.

Post-Treatment Considerations
To allow for potential side effects to resolve, avoid major social events or engagements for at least two weeks following your treatment.

Dr Alya’s Safety Commitment
If Dr Alya determines that the procedure is unsafe for you, she will inform you of her decision, and the consultation will conclude without treatment.

It is vital to ensure that all information provided is read and understood before your anti-wrinkle treatment. Please find the Pre and Post-procedure treatment here.

1.  Pain. There should be minimal pain at the injection site. 
2. Bruising. They usually resolve within 2 weeks.
3. Redness/ Irritation. It is normal for the skin to be erythematous/ red after a needle pricked it, and it usually self-resolves. However, if it persists and feels warm/hot, please, contact Dr Alya to discuss your symptoms.
4. Swelling. There will be swelling post-treatment, including under-eye puffiness.  However, they are self-limiting.
5. Headache. It may last for several days. Contact Dr Alya if the headache persists or worsens despite analgesia.
6. Lumps. Common at injection sites. They are self-limiting. 
7. Drooping/heaviness of eyelid/ brow
8. Abnormal appearance of the brow
9. Anaphylaxis.  This is a severe allergic reaction to either lidocaine or botulinum toxin. The signs and symptoms are shortness of breath, voice hoarseness, wheezing, cough, nausea/vomiting, and swelling of the tongue, eyelids and lips. This is a medical emergency*

*Dr Alya always prioritises safety and has an emergency kit to handle unexpected side effects.