Botulinum toxin wrinkle injections and Facial Fillers
Non surgical treatments are ideal for patients looking to improve facial wrinkles without the need for surgery. Although not able to achieve the changes of surgery they have a specific role in treatment of movement (mimetic) wrinkles and for patients not quite wanting or needing formal surgery. They are ideal for treatment of frown, forehead and laughter lines and mild to moderate wrinkles around the mouth and cheek areas. Botox injections work by blocking the muscle from contracting so stopping the movement wrinkles such as frown lines. By contrast the fillers are used to plumb up depressions and wrinkles. Botox and Fillers can be used together or separately.
Fillers
Made of a natural substance called Hyaluronic acid these fillers are available in differing ‘thickness’ so affecting how long they last but also how easily they may be felt. The thinner the filler the better it is close to the skin but the less time it lasts. They are all dissolvable and last 6-12 months. They are ideal for softening ageing signs around the mouth and cheek. Usually inserted with a local anaesthetic cream or injection.
Botox wrinkle treatment
Composed of the Botox toxin, small controlled doses are placed in the muscles to be treated to prevent movement and hence prevent the wrinkles. This is a highly effective treatment and lasts 3-6 months. It can also be used to change the eyebrow shape and in the neck to treat muscle bands. It also has a role in the treatment armpit sweating and migraine headaches!
Potential complications
These routine non-surgical treatments are very safe and a success for the vast majority of patients. However, it is important you understand that occasionally treatments can have problems such as bruising or swelling. Fillers can occasionally leave lumps under the skin and Botox can make the brow or eyelid drop if placed in the wrong place.
