Botulinum therapy for wrinkle relaxation.

Botulinum is a neurotoxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. It has been used since 1822, initially to treat blepharospasm, strabismus and cervical dystonia.

When it was used for blepharospasm it was noted that a clear reduction of crow’s feet and wrinkles was seen. These patients were clearly delighted! The wrinkle relaxation revolution had begun!

Botulinum was approved and used for aesthetic purposes in America from April 2002 and is the number one aesthetic procedure used there. It is now licensed in 90 countries for cosmetic use, however it should be noted that the UK is not one of them. Practitioners are able to use the product but, as it is used outside of its product license, we are obliged to make you aware of this.

Botulinum treatment is used on the forehead for horizontal frown lines, the lines between the eye brows known as the glabellar region and for the crow’s feet around the eyes. It can also be used to soften the corners of the mouth and the peri-oral lines above the lip.

The results of botulinum start to be seen from day five but it can take up to two weeks to see the final result. A two week follow up appointment is offered and a top up is given if needed. This is included in the initial treatment cost.

Hyaluronic acid fillers

Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in our bodies, but decreases in amount as we age. The natural action of hyaluronic acid is to draw water molecules towards it. By using a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid we can restore youthful resilience to the skin by simply adding to the natural supply.

We can give shape to facial features by creating volume under the skin resulting in a healthy and vital appearance and a reduction in lines. It can also be used for facial contouring and for volume augmentation of the lips and cheek bones and for skin revitalisation of the face, back of the hands and décolletage. The results of the fillers are almost instantaneous.

We currently use Q-Med’s ‘Restylane’ range and Allergan-Inamed’s ‘Hydrafill’ and ‘Juvidern’ range of fillers.

Sculptra

Sanofi-Avensis’ ‘Sculptra’ is a long lasting clinically proven treatment that can smooth deep lines and wrinkles and restore facial volume that is lost through the natural ageing process. It is made of a substance called Poly L Lactic acid and is injected deep into the face and stimulates your fibroblasts to produce more natural collagen, thus giving a natural lift. It can also be used for the back of the hands and the décolletage area. Sculptra is given as a course of treatment. The treatments are separated by 4 to 6 weeks and it is only after at least two treatments that a change can be seen.

The collagen continues to be made for up to 9 months after the treatment. The number of treatments required depends on the individual and is determined by the amount of facial volume that needs to be replaced, or the extent of any deep lines.