Wrinkle Relaxation

I provide a consultation service for the treatment of lines and wrinkles such as consideration of muscle relaxation with pharmaceutical therapies. I will provide advice about various treatment options but a product won’t be sold or administered if a customer isn’t suited to a specific treatment option.

What areas can be treated?

The most common areas that are requested for treatment include frown lines, forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eyes), bunny lines (side of the nose), and smoker’s lines (lips)

What is Botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin has been used medically in the UK for over 40 years, and within the cosmetic industry for around 20 years. It is a purified protein which is injected to temporarily relax the facial muscles responsible for causing lines and wrinkles. As the muscles relax, the overlying skin which has been creased tight into fine folds, also relaxes and lines and wrinkles smooth away.

What will the process involve?

Treatment for lines and wrinkles, or recontouring of the face, will always begin with a consultation to determine if this treatment is suitable for you. If Botulinum toxin is appropriate, you will be invited back to the clinic for your first treatment and an appointment will be made for a review (usually 2 weeks after initial treatment).

The procedure itself involves only minor discomfort as we use only ultra-fine (disposable) needles and offer analgesic cream if desired. The process takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Although mild redness and slight swelling is common immediately after treatment, this usually resolves within 30 minutes. Mild bruising is possible, but for the vast majority of patients, there is no real downtime and most will return to work or their usual daily activities immediately.

Effects begin to show between 3 and 14 days following treatment. We invite our patients back after two weeks to review the results and make any fine adjustments where necessary. This is considered an integral part of the treatment and does not incur any extra charge.

What aftercare is recommended at home?

We ask that patients avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, excessive heat (such as saunas) and massage of the treated area for 24 hours post treatment. Beyond that, no special precautions need be taken and you can simply look forward to the results of your treatment taking effect.

How long will the results last?

Treatment results last an average of 3-6 months, although longer lasting results can be achieved in some cases. It is important to note that Botulinum toxin injections to reduce lines and wrinkles or reshape the face is not a permanent solution. Lines, wrinkles and previous facial form will eventually return and further treatments will be required.

When should I consider Botox injections?

People begin to show signs of ageing at different ages. This is largely dictated by genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors. In addition, what might be a concern for one person, might be attractive or even unnoticed by another. As such there is no right answer to this question. What is important is that each individual is assessed on account of their own personal concerns, objectives and medical history.

Is it safe?

Whilst Botulinum Toxin has been rigorously tested and has a robust safety record globally, offered to tens of millions of patients over decades; no injectable treatment is entirely without risk. I recommend that you always seek an appropriately trained medical professional to administer any injectable treatment.

Who will perform the treatment?

Treatment with Botulinum toxin and other injectable treatments, is still largely unregulated in the UK, allowing for wide variation in the qualifications and experience of practitioners, and the standard of treatment provided to patients. Treatment will be performed by myself after a face to face consultation and prescription for the product will be provided by me.