ANTI-WRINKLE TREATMENT

Anti-wrinkle treatment involves the injection of botulinum toxin, also commonly referred to as 'Botox' ('Botox' is a brand of botulinum toxin), into particular muscle areas. It is used to treat muscles, which regularly contract and create wrinkles over time. There are two types of wrinkle lines: dynamic lines- which appear during facial expression, and static lines, which appears when the face is relaxed. The former can be treated with botulinum toxin; however, the latter does not benefit it. There are other treatments which can help with static lines.

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 take about 4 - 14 days to show results due to the toxin requiring time to act on the nerve signalling and causing an effect on the muscle. You will be given an appointment after 2 weeks of the treatment; to review the effect of the toxins and determine whether you require more botulinum toxin. The treatments usually last about 3 - 4 months, after which the nerve terminals of the affected muscles start to recover.  It is advised to not repeat the treatment in less than 3 months and to have a repeat treatment in 3 - 4 months to maintain the desired results.  

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. 

It is important, to be honest about your past medical history, current and recent medications, allergies and recent concerns regarding your health for which you went to your GP and/or the Hospital.

It is recommended that only those between the age of 25 - 65 should be injected with botulinum toxin. On the same note, the best results are often seen when there are little to no static lines and few dynamic lines. Otherwise repeat treatment sessions are required, which can take time to achieve the desired outcome.

There may be instances where treatment is not appropriate such as Pregnancy, IVF and breastfeeding. You may not be suitable if you suffer from certain neurological conditions such as myasthenia gravis. 

Treatment would be contraindicated if you are allergic to botulinum toxins and/or had recent facial surgery or dermal filler treatment in the area of treatment.

There could be situations where treatment may not be suitable immediately. However, it could be possible if certain steps were taken and time has passed. For example, infection (depending on the site and severity- may take 7-10 days to resolve) and Cold sores- may require treatment for 5 days and may need waiting. Medication- some may need stopping 5 days before treatment (Aspirin, warfarin, NSAID) unless prescribed for a condition. If the patient has an important event to attend within two weeks, it is inadvisable to undergo the treatment.

It is important to ensure that you have no social engagement or important event for a period of 2 weeks after the treatment. There may be side effects which take longer to resolve and may affect your important events.

IF DR ALYA DECIDES IT IS UNSAFE TO PERFORM A PROCEDURE, SHE WILL INFORM YOU OF HER DECISION; AND THE CONSULTATION WILL BE CONCLUDED WITHOUT TREATMENT.