Anti-Wrinkle Injections
As we age we begin to notice the formation of lines and wrinkles that occur with facial expression and movement, these are called dynamic lines. With the continued and repeated use of facial muscles combined with volume loss, loss of subcutaneous fat, changes to facial bones, and loss and damage to collagen and elastin within the skin these dynamic lines eventually form static lines which are present at rest.
Dynamic lines which occur with movement can be successfully treated with anti wrinkle injections which effectively results in ‘wrinkle relaxation’ in the area of concern. Anti wrinkle injections (wrinkle relaxers) target the specific muscle group and work to temporarily reduce movement in the area resulting in less visible wrinkles.
Anti wrinkle injections (wrinkle relaxers) work by blocking the transmitting messages between nerve and muscle cells meaning muscle cells are unable to contract. With the reduction in muscle contraction, the appearance of existing wrinkles are decreased and the formation of new ones is prevented.
Anti wrinkle injections (wrinkle relaxers) are useful wherever there are dynamic lines or areas of overactive muscle. Areas that are treated include:
Frown lines
Forehead lines
Crow’s feet / periorbital lines
Bunny lines on the nose
Dimpling of the chin
Corners of the mouth
Widened or square jaw
Platysmal or neck bands (neck lift)
Gummy smile
FAQ’s
+ What does the treatment involve?
A fully trained, registered medical professional will conduct the treatment after an initial consultation has taken place to discuss what is possible in terms of treatment, advise given and answer any questions you may have.
The anti wrinkle injections generally lasts 15 minutes and involves the injection of small volumes of fluid into the target muscles using a very fine needle. The procedure is usually painless due applying an ice pack or numbing cream to the area before injecting. Results become evident 3-5 days post treatment with the maximal effect at 2 weeks.
A follow-up appointment is recommended to ensure you are satisfied with your results and to assess the need for any dose adjustments. This will ensure ongoing treatments are perfected with the right dose for your individual needs. No treatment will be performed prior to the 2 week follow-up.
+ How long does the treatment last?
Generally most people find the benefits of anti wrinkle injections last up to 3-4 months. At this time the muscles gradually return to their pre-injection state with the wrinkles returning, although many people state they still appear softer.
It is important to note that the treatment does not return to normal activity overnight. The muscles start to contract again as new nerve 'sprouting' occurs generally 4-6 weeks post treatment.
Repeated injections are recommended to maintain muscle relaxation and to prevent the formation of new wrinkles, which is why anti-wrinkle injections is the ideal ‘preventative’ treatment. With repeated treatments the effect is often longer lasting as the muscles weaken with time, this means longer intervals between treatments.
Tailored dosing is essential and it may take a few treatments to determine your perfect dose, balancing the desired results with treatment longevity. Other factors may impact longevity such as metabolism, those who exercise at high intensity and concurrent illness.
+ What happens after my treatment?
Following treatment with anti wrinkle injections normal activities can be resumed. You will be provided with full aftercare instructions. There are some general precautions that should be taken to reduce the risks of side effects and to obtain the best possible results
Ice can be applied to reduce discomfort, swelling and bruising
Refrain from washing your face or applying makeup for 4 hours after treatment
Do not rub or massage the affected area for 24 hours
Do not do strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours
+ Do anti-wrinkle injections have risks?
These medications have been extensively researched for over 20 years with well established risk data.
With any medical procedure there are always risks involved and your practitioner will discuss all risks and contraindications prior to performing any procedure.
Side effects are uncommon. Some possible after effects include:
Bruising
Redness
Itching
Mild headache or pain
Some more uncommon side effects include:
Temporary dropping of the eyelids (ptosis) may occur. This occurs in less than 1% of patients and is temporary, generally lasts only 4 weeks.
Dropping of the eyebrows or a heavy forehead
Double vision in rare cases with treatment to the eyes
Difficulty swallowing, whistling, speaking and asymmetrical smile – with certain mouth treatments
Anti wrinkle injections cannot be given in people with underlying neurological conditions such as Myasthenia gravis and in pregnant or breastfeeding women.