Botox is a natural, purified protein that relaxes wrinkle-causing muscles, creating a rejuvenated appearance.
Dermal fillers, fat transfer, skin rejuvenation
Dynamic wrinkles (smile lines) are caused by contractions of underlying facial muscles as you laugh or smile. Botox blocks impulses from the nerve to the muscles that cause these lines, so that the muscles do not contract. Consequently as the muscles are unable to contract, the areas appear relaxed, creating a softer, more youthful appearance. The nerve endings which have been blocked usually grow new connections to the muscles in about three to five months, and muscle movement and activity returns. Therefore, treatment must be repeated at least twice a year.
All skin types can have Botox, but patients who are pregnant or have neuro-muscular disorders such as myasthenia gravis should not undergo this procedure. The key to successful Botox treatment is precise injection into the muscles. This depends on the skill of the injector.
Reduction or complete elimination of wrinkles and excessive sweating. The full effects may not be seen until 5 - 10 days, and the results vary depending upon the amount of botox and the site.
Botox has a very safe track record and has become one of the most popular procedures performed in New Zealand. While infrequent, mild, temporary bruising is the commonest side-effect. Very rarely there can be drooping of an eyelid or asymmetry of facial expression. Such risks depend upon the muscles injected.
Nil. Patients can return to work the same day and resume most of their regular activities.
We use a 33 gauge insulin syringe and also bacteriostatic saline for dilution, which minimises discomfort at the time of injection.
Avoid blood thinners such as Aspirin and anti-inflammatory pills for two weeks prior to treatment.
Patients are encouraged to frown as much as possible for three hours after injection of Botox into the frown lines.
Dr McKerrow