Botox® / wrinkle reduction

 

Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) has changed the way we approach facial aging, since its accidental discovery by a Canadian opthalmologist, Dr. Jean Carruthers, in the 1987. It has gone on to become the most widely performed medical cosmetic treatment in the world.

 

There are currently three brands of Botulinum Toxin Type A licensed for cosmetic use in the UK. Depending on the clinical indication, at Lumière Medical, we use Botox® (Vistabel® Cosmetic) and Azzalure®.

 

How it works

Botox® acts by reversibly relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles. This is especially useful for horizonal lines across the forehead, frown lines between the eyes and crow's feet. For deep wrinkles, it may be used in conjunction with dermal fillers.

 

Advanced uses of Botox®

Brow lift.  Selectively relaxes the muscles of the forehead that pull the eyebrow down, giving a desirable, arched eyebrow look.
 

Migraines. Can be used to relieve pain from chronic migraines. (This is not a first line treatment. Please discuss other causes for migraines with your GP prior to seeking this treatment.)

 

Bruxism. Selectively relaxes the muscles of the face involved with teeth grinding, relieving symptoms of pain and the wearing down of teeth and dental restorations. (This is not a first line treatment. Other treatment options are available, and may be more suitable.)
 

Gummy smile correction. Selectively reduces the activity of the muscles that elevate the upper lip.
 

Masseteric hypertrophy. Reduces the width of the jawline, changing an excessively squarish lower jaw to a more attractive oval or heart-shaped face.
 

Hyperhydrosis. An effective treatment for excessive sweating, Botox® can be used to disable the eccrine and apocrine glands to stop them from producing and secreting sweat from the body.

 

What to expect

The procedure typically takes around 10 to 30 minutes, is minimally invasive and is carried out by a series of tiny injections into the muscles.

 

Results

You'll start to notice the effects of treatment within three to five days, and the full effect within a couple of weeks. The treatment effects usually last for three to six months.

 

Recovery time

Most patients are able to return to work the same day, although you may have slight redness and, very rarely, bruising at the injection site.