Wrinkle smoothing treatments

Am I suitable for wrinkle smoothing?

This is usually established during a consultation. Ideal candidates for the treatment are those who have lines around the face caused by muscle contraction, i.e. the frown area between your eyebrows – Botox (Botulinum toxin type A) will help to smoothen this area.

If the lines are quite deep, then further treatment with an injectable dermal filler will be needed in order to smoothen the area to the desired effect.

The treatment is not suitable for patients who are pregnant or have a neurologic or muscle disease.

How does wrinkle smoothing work?

Once Botox is injected into the skin, it blocks impulses from the nerves and facial muscles that cause expression lines. Following the injection, facial muscles are unable to move as well and therefore tend to relax, leaving the overlying skin looking smooth and unwrinkled in appearance.

Untreated facial muscles continue to contact as normal and leave facial expressions unaffected.

What does the procedure involve?

Botox treatments are very quick, usually lasting ten minutes and conducted using a fine needle to reduce pain and discomfort.

Your facial movements and expressions will firstly be assessed prior to the treatment. Small amounts of product are then injected in well-defined points, leading to a mild temporary paralysis of some facial muscles. The results can last up to four months.

Is wrinkle smoothing painful?

There might be a slight sting when Botox is injected, but very little discomfort. The needle used is only very fine and only a small amount of liquid is used to minimise any pain, which is usually only very minor. Once the treatment is complete, there may be some slight sensitivity in the area for the following 12-24 hours. Some patients may experience temporary redness and bruising after the injection, but this can be covered with makeup if necessary.