#botulinumtoxin #Botox #Dysport - benefits and outcome (photos of recent patients).

 

What is Botulinum Toxin ? How does it treat wrinkles ?

It is a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinium. When injected in big quantities, the toxin induces muscular paralysis. In smaller quantities in a targeted muscle, the paralysis remains localized. Therefore, if it is injected in the muscles which produce frowning and expression wrinkles to reduce them.The injected toxin is purified (Botox/Dysport).

What are the indications for botulinum toxin use ?

-frown wrinkles (glabela)

-crow’s feet wrinkles

-wrinkles of the forehead

-wrinkles of the neck

How is the treatment done ?

It is done in a series of injections with a very fine needle in a group of muscles which produce the unwanted expression wrinkles. For the wrinkles of the forehead and glabela, injections of toxin are done in a group of muscles located just over the eyebrows. The toxin is also injected on the muscle bridging the nose. When treating crow’s feet, a series of injections of the toxin is done in certain parts of  the muscles located on the corners of the eyes. It is a relatively painless treatment.

What to do after the injections ?

• Do not lie down for 3-4 hours after the treatment.
• Try to move the injected muscles as much as possible to facilitate the diffusion of the toxin in the muscle.
• Do not touch the injected area.

How long do the effects of the treatment last ?

The wrinkle-canceling effect takes place fully 3 to 4 days after the injection. After the second week, complete paralysis of the muscle is obtained. The paralysis lasts 4 to 6 months and this varies from one individual to another. The effects then fade and the treatment must be done again to maintain the effect.

Are there any side-effects ?

They are not frequent. No serious or permanent side-effect has been reported to this day. They are usually limited to the injection itself:

1. pain while injecting
2. small chance of bruising
3. lower eyebrows: infrequent and temporary
4. headache

How to improve the appearance if the effects of botulinum toxin are not sufficient ?

Filler injections are available and it is recommended to use hyaluronic acid because of its reversible effects. Allergic reactions are rare. This treatment can be done together or two weeks following the injection of botulinum toxin.