The toxin in administered by injecting it into certain muscles where it blocks the transition of chemical messages from the nerve to the muscle so that the muscle stays in the resting state.

This may only be partial reduction in movement, allowing some remaining movement or a full block in which case there is very little remaining muscular movement in the area – this very much depends on the amount administered and the location of the product placement.

Your expected outcomes and whether they can be achieved will be discussed at the time of consultation.

Botulinum toxin can benefit anyone. It is most effective in improving the lines and wrinkles that are due to facial expression, including frown, crows’ feet and forehead lines. These particular lines are usually caused by overactive muscles and this treatment stops the muscles from contracting and causing the wrinkles.

Discomfort during the treatment is minimal and short-lived, if at all. Very tiny needles are used and only small amounts of the toxin is administered. However, we always have numbing cream available for any patient who wishes to have the area numbed beforehand.

Results tend to last from 3 -4 months. You will notice a gradual fading off effect and the lines on the face will be as they were before. If you wish, at this stage you can return for another treatment, as with repeated treatments, the effects last longer. Frequent treatment intervals of less than 3 months is not recommended. Frequency of treatments may be reduced according to the quality of your skin and your response to the treatment.

The treatment itself can take as a little as 10 minutes, depending on the number of areas to be treated on the day.

The effects can begin to appear quickly, even within 48 to 72 hours, although the full extent of the treatment may not be visible for up to 2 weeks.

In a very small number of cases, there may be some localised bruising, slight swelling, or redness at the injection site. This usually disappears very quickly and can respond to the application of a cool pack and the use of Arnica cream.

It is important you tell your practitioner of any medications or dietary supplements you are taking, as some medicines can adversely affect the way the toxin works or increase your risk of bruising.

If you are taking supplements such as Vitamin A, C or E, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, fish oils, St. Johns Wort or some painkilling medicines such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen, then these can increase your risk of bruising and it may be advisable to stop taking them a few days before your treatment. It is also advisable that you do not drink alcohol the night before your treatment for the same reason.

Make-up will need to be removed prior to injections and you will be advised not to reapply it for 12 hours in order to reduce risk of infection or irritation at the injection sites.

You will be advised to avoid extremes of heat or cold, vigorous exercise, lying down or lean over for 4-6 hours.

After treatment it is expected that you will start to see an improvement within 2-3 days. For some people this can take longer. The full result may be judged at 2-3 weeks. You will be invited to a review appointment at 2-3 weeks where the success of the treatment may be assessed and adjustments made to your personal treatment plan, if necessary.