Botox Therapy Information
Botulinum toxin is a chemical produced by the botulinum bacteria. Botox is a protein derivative
of the toxin, which, when injected into a muscle, causes it to become weakened or inactivated. It inhibits the neuromuscular
transmission so allows the muscle to relax.
By using facial muscles repeatedly throughout a lifetime, the skin is creased in areas of greatest
use. The ageing process causes the slow down of collagen and elastin production in the skin so that as we get older,
these areas of over use become damaged and the lines become permanent. By reducing the movement of muscles in these areas,
the skin stops being creased and is allowed to recover, causing the lines to soften or even fade away. The muscles are
temporarily inactivated (always reversible), during which time the patient can break the subconscious habit of over-using
these muscle.
For the first couple of years, frequent treatments are required to re-educate the facial muscles.
Thereafter, treatments would be less frequent until yearly maintenance treatment is normally all that is required.
Botox used in minute doses, as it is in cosmetic therapy, has a very high margin of safety. Side
effects of this treatment are rare, but will always resolve. In extremely rare cases patients have developed an allergy
to the treatment. Others have shown resistance, ie it causes little or no effect on the treated muscles, which is why
all our patients are checked, prior to procedures, by a qualified Doctor.
Restylane Products
Restylane products are dermal fillers. They are used for the treatment of deeper lines and wrinkles
and any area which needs plumping out. They are a Hyaluronic acid based filler which is a chemical naturally produced
by the body so side effects are very rare.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) has remarkable water-binding properties, giving skin a smooth, more
youthful-looking appearance and overall natural vitality. HA also supports the blood vessels that supply essential nutrients
to the skin and 'mops up' damaging free radicals. Again they are given via injections into the skin for which a local
anaesthetic may be used.
The results will last up to 6-9 months, so your treatments can be tailored and changed according
to your natural facial changes.
