What is Botulinum Toxin (Botox)?
Most people have heard of Botox®, the most commonly used brand of botulinum toxin. Botox is a purified protein produced by bacteria in laboratory conditions used for many aesthetic treatments including relaxing wrinkles and lifting the corners of the mouth.
Botox works at the point where the nerve connects to the muscle, stopping the muscle from working. Other brand names of botulinum toxin are available such as Xeomin® and Azzalure are available. Here at the Hush Aesthetic Clinic we trust both Botox and Azzalure brands for our patient’s anti-wrinkle treatments as we believe it gives the best results.
What can be treated with Botox?
Botox can be used on many areas of the face and body and has over 800 medical uses. Here at Hush Aesthetic Clinic we use Botox to smooth out fine lines and wrinkle, to prevent teeth grinding and for excessive sweating often medically called hyperhidrosis- ask one of our expert practitioners about the right treatments for you.
Will Botox be able to get rid of all of my wrinkles?
Botox is an excellent treatment for fine lines and wrinkles that are associated with movement in that face and neck (dynamic lines). However when a wrinkle is more deeply ingrained it cannot be erased with a single treatment of Botox. For deeper lines there are other treatment options such as dermal fillers which may be a better option.
Other treatments to improve the quality of the skin such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion and Derma roller may provide further benefit.
Does Botox have a preventative effect?
It makes sense that Botox does prevent wrinkle formation if it is started before fixed wrinkles establish. However there is a careful balance when deciding to treat younger patients – premature treatment can make someone look older rather than the more youthful look desired. Whether or not treatment is appropriate is always decided on an individual patient basis.
What does Botox treatment involve?
Prior to treatment you will have a thorough consultation to discover your main concerns and priorities. We will also take a medical history to make sure Botox is a safe and appropriate treatment for you. Photographs will also be taken as a record.
Treatment itself only takes a few minutes and involves injections with tiny needles, directly into the muscles we are targeting.
Does Botox hurt?
Rather than being painful most people describe Botox as a little uncomfortable. Some factors may make it feel more painful such as stress or hormonal fluctuations. We may apply some ice prior to injection, numbing the area and making treatment more comfortable.
Are the results of Botox instant?
Patients normally see the results from their Botox between 4 days and 2 weeks and some patients may require a little top up for optimum results in days 10-14.
How long does Botox last?
In most people Botox lasts for 3 to 4 months. We advise people to expect 3 months on their first treatment. Some patients do find the effects last much longer. Different factors such as sun exposure, dietary factors and activity levels can all affect the duration of results.
Book a consultation with one of our clinical experts who will discuss your needs and then create a personal treatment plan designed to achieve the best results.