BOTOX

Botox is now the most common aesthetic procedure performed in the USA. It provides unparalleled treatment for frown lines, forehead lines and periorbital lines (crow's feet), as well as having a large number of specific clinical indications including migraine treatment and excessive underarm sweating. Botox blocks signal transmission at the nerve junction with the facial muscles, thereby relaxing them. Treatment is ideally aimed at partial muscle block, thus allowing facial expression to appear more natural.

Overall attainment of wrinkle reduction is achieved by:

• Relaxing the overlying skin and allowing a degree of natural 'replenishment' of the underlying supportive tissues with time ( >1 yr)
• Encouraging, by its muscle blocking action, the learning of modified (less deleterious) facial expression for the future
• Delaying the otherwise natural deterioration of lines/wrinkles with increasing age, while Botox is used

Prior treatment with Botox can, by reducing muscle activity, prolong the effective duration of dermal filler treatment in that area.

Treatment areas offered:

• Frown lines - (Glabellar region)
• Horizontal forehead lines
• Periorbital laughter lines (crow's feet).

Due to the need to balance the relaxation of opposing facial muscle action, in some people/skin types treatment of horizontal forehead lines alone is not recommended without the glabellar region also being treated at the same time.

General points:

• Good results may be obtained from 4-14 days after the first treatment
• Most people find the injections cause only mild discomfort
• Immediately after injection there may be mild swelling which usually subsides in 48 hrs
• Side effects are rare. Occasionally temporary drooping of the eyelid can occur. This may last a few weeks but can be treated in the interim with special eye drops (that, as a doctor, I am able to prescribe), while awaiting natural resolution
• Individuals may rarely develop antibodies or allergies to the Botox toxin, experience watery eyes or double vision
• Treatment is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Make-up in the specific area will need to be removed prior to treatment and, when possible, a pre-treatment photo taken for later comparison
• A consent form will need to be signed prior to treatment