Peonia Medical provide anti-wrinkle injections in our London, Nottingham & Leicester clinics. In this article we answer your Frequently Asked Questions…
Q: What are anti-wrinkle injections?
A: Anti-wrinkle injections, also known as botulinum toxin injections, involve injecting a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum into the target muscle. This temporarily blocks the nerve signal and weakens the muscle action, improving the appearance of lines caused by facial expressions (dynamic lines).
Q: Can anti-wrinkle injections treat all types of lines?
A: No, anti-wrinkle injections can only treat dynamic lines, which are lines of expression present when the muscle contracts. Static lines, which are present when the muscle is relaxed, generally do not improve with botulinum toxin. Your practitioner may suggest other treatments to deal with static lines.
Q: Who can prescribe botulinum toxin?
A: Botulinum toxin is a Prescription Only Medication (POM) and must be prescribed by a qualified doctor, dentist, nurse, midwife, or pharmacist.
Q: Can a non-prescribing practitioner perform the treatment?
A: Yes, a non-prescribing practitioner may perform the treatment if approved by the prescriber and agreed upon by you.
Q: What are some areas that can be treated with botulinum toxin?
A: Botulinum toxin can improve several areas, including lateral canthal lines (crow’s feet), glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows), forehead lines, gummy smiles, bunny lines, smoker’s/lip lines, platysmal bands (turkey neck), jawline (Nefertiti Lift), slimming of jaw muscles, chin dimpling, brow lifting, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Q: How does botulinum toxin work?
A: Botulinum toxin blocks the transmission of the chemical signal from the nerve to the target muscle, resulting in a relaxed state of the muscle, which makes facial expressions relaxed.
Q: Are the effects of botulinum toxin instant?
A: No, the effects of botulinum toxin may take up to 10 days to be seen fully.
Q: How long do the effects of botulinum toxin last?
A: The effects of botulinum toxin typically last for 3-4 months, after which the treatment can be repeated to maintain the desired results.
Q: Are there any side effects of botulinum toxin?
A: Side effects are uncommon, often mild, and usually resolve within a few days of treatment. However, certain factors such as poor skin condition, loss of elasticity, heaviness of the eyelids, and asymmetry may increase the risk of side effects. It’s important to discuss potential risks and side effects with your practitioner during the initial consultation.
Q: How can I best avoid side effects?
A: One important factor to consider is the skill and experience of the practitioner performing your treatment. A well-established practitioner will have a thorough understanding of injection techniques and will be able to help you avoid certain side effects. For example, Dr. Tracy Xu is an advanced aesthetic trainer who regularly teaches qualified doctors, nurses, and dentists the best techniques to avoid common side effects.
Additionally, it’s important to follow any pre- and post-treatment instructions provided by your practitioner, as these can also help minimize your risk of side effects.
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