Botox

Botox injections are used to improve the appearance of facial lines, particularly frown lines on the forehead and between the eyebrows, crow’s feet and other wrinkles. The injections can reduce lines directly beneath the eye and can be used to give a more rounded appearance of the eyes. Botox can also lift up the corners of the mouth.

Recent research has found that Botox® can also help to prevent persistent migraines and headaches and the product has been in use for over a decade to treat Hyperhidrosis, a condition which causes excessive sweating.

Botulinum Toxin works by weakening the muscles so that, at rest, the wrinkles are lessened or disappear; yet it still allows the muscles to work, eliminating the possibility of a mask-like appearance.

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure is very simple. No local anaesthetic or special preparation is required. Several injections are made in specific sites in the face using a very fine needle. The pain associated with the injections is only moderate – a slight burning for a couple of seconds.

Afterwards, there may be tiny pinprick marks, which disappear after a few hours, and rarely some minor bruising. Normal activities can be resumed immediately although we would advise not to lie down for at least three hours following treatment.

Is this treatment right for you?

Lines, wrinkles and folds suitable for treatment are:

• Forehead lines
• Lines between the eyebrows
• Crows feet and fine lines on lower eyelids
• Upper lip to soften fine lines
• Corners of mouth
• Décolletage to soften crêpe-like appearance

Recently it has been found that injection of Botox® in the forehead has led to a significant reduction in headaches and migraines in sufferers. This may work by reducing the frequency and strength of frowning.

The Wilson Clinic has also been using Botox for more than 15 years to treat sufferers of Hyperhydrosis with up to 75% of patients achieving outstanding results.

What are the limitations?

Botox® doesn’t work immediately. Effects can be seen a few days after treatment Botox does not reduce wrinkles permanently. The first injection usually lasts three to four months and then must be repeated. However, further injections may last longer.

Post Operative Recovery

Side effects are uncommon. There may be minor bruising. Rarely migration of the toxin may cause weakness of nearby muscles, for example, drooping of part of the eyebrow. This wears off over a number of weeks, but can sometimes be corrected by further injections of Botox at an adjacent site.