Wrinkle relaxing injections are commonly referred to as Botox®. However, there are a number of different brands available and her at the Plasma Doctor we use Bocouture from the leading aesthetics pharmaceutical manufacturer Merz.
Wrinkles are due to a combination of the effects of sun damage, gravity and muscle contraction when frowning and laughing. Wrinkles due to gravity represent natural sagging of tissue with age and termed “static” wrinkles, these are generally only improved by tightening the skin. Wrinkles caused by muscle contraction such as frown lines, forehead lines and crows' feet, are called “dynamic” wrinkles and these can be improved by Botox treatment.
Botox®, Bocouture®, Azzalure® and Dysport® are some of the trade names for Botulinum toxin, produced by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Several types of toxins have been identified, but type A, which is used commercially, is the most potent. Botox acts by blocking acetylcholine, a chemical that is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses that cause muscle contraction. This results in muscle paralysis. The resultant paralysis, however, is temporary, as the new growth of nerves will re-innervate the muscles. Botox was first used cosmetically in 1990, to reduce facial wrinkles arising from muscle contraction.
Botox is injected directly into the muscles that cause the wrinkles, using a very small needle. Several injections are usually needed at specific sites, depending on the area treated. Localised swelling and bruising can occur and most normal activities can be resumed immediately.
Botox usually takes effect 24-72 hours after injection, with maximum effect at about 1 to 2 weeks. Its effects generally last for approximately 3-4 months. When injected into the muscles that are responsible for expression wrinkles, it gives the face a more relaxed and smoother appearance. When a gradual fading of treatment effect is noticed, you may return to have another treatment.
Too frequent or excessive dosing of Botox may lead to patient's resistance to treatment due to antibody formation and Botox treatment may exaggerate any facial asymmetry.
The use of Botox is contraindicated in people with neuromuscular disorders such as myasthenia gravis, those who are taking certain muscle relaxants and antibodies such as aminoglycosides, pregnant or breast feeding women, those with infection or inflammation at the proposed site of injections and bleeding disorders.
No severe complications after cosmetic use of Botox have been reported in the literature. Very rarely excessive weakening of the target muscles and paresis of adjacent muscles can occur, resulting in facial weakness. This is self-limiting. When injecting above the eyebrows, upper eyelid ptosis or slight drooping may occur but only 1:100. This can be corrected with eye drops but will also improve as the effects of the Botox wears off.
Remain upright for 4 hours after injection (you may lie in a reclined position).Exaggerate facial expressions in injected areas for 1 hour after injection.Do not wear a headband or hat where the band goes across your forehead.Refrain from strenuous exercise for 24 hours following injections.Do not massage or manipulate injected areas for 24 hours after injections. Avoid lying face down for 24 hours following the injection.Refrain from using ibuprofen, aspirin and vitamin E for 24 hours following injectionIf bruising appears, apply ice to area for 15 minutes every hour to decrease bruisingThe most common side effect is headache with Botox injections.
You may use paracetamol to relieve this. If this is you any concerns please contact us on 01925 648533
