BOTOX ANTI WRINKLE TREATMENT

Botox Anti-Wrinkle Treatment in Birkdale

Botox is a natural protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It inhibits the transmission of nerve signals of the muscles into which it is injected. This reduces the ability of that muscle to contract and thereby softens lines and wrinkles. The muscle regains the ability to contract fully after 8-12 weeks.

Botox is administered via injection using a very fine needle. It is almost totally painless and anaesthetic is not required for Botox procedures.

After treatment, muscles should start to relax and wrinkles soften after 2-4 days with the maximum benefit seen at 2-3 weeks. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled at this time to assess the outcome of the treatment and assess if further Botox is required to achieve the desired result of your personal treatment plan.

Please be aware that Botox is not usually employed to totally ‘freeze’ the muscle tissue. Some movement is almost always desired to provide a natural appearance but it is understood that all patients have different expectations and these will be discussed during your consultation with Dr Bowles.

Following completion of treatment, the treated muscles should remain in a relaxed state for approximately 3-4 months, with greater and greater muscle movement and contraction becoming noticeable in the last 6-8 weeks.

For best results skin should be in good condition, free from infection or inflammation and the target lines not too furrowed. Dr Bowles will assess your suitability and advise accordingly.


Contraindications for Botox

  • Except in exceptional circumstances this is not a treatment recommended for those under 25.
  • Botulinum toxin cannot be given to pregnant or breast feeding women.
  • Cannot be administered to patients with certain neurological disorders.
  • Not suitable if you are currently taking certain medicines especially those which prolong bleeding such as warfarin.
  • If you are currently or have recently completed a course of Roacutane (acne treatment) in the last 18 months.


Things to consider prior to undergoing Botox treatment

  • Bruising is a risk with any injectable treatment. If you are attending a special event or social engagement where a facial bruise would not be acceptable, then either delay your treatment until after the event or alternatively, undergo Botox 2-3 weeks prior to the event. This would allow time for both a bruise to resolve and for you to feel and see the maximum benefit of the treatment.
  • Likewise with the adverse events listed below. If you are planning to attend an important event and any adverse event described would be unacceptable to you, discuss with Dr Bowles in advance of having treatment.
  • Some over the counter medicines and supplements can also affect bleeding (make you more prone to bruising) as can alcohol- which should be avoided the day before and after treatment.
  • Vigorous exercise, sun exposure, sun beds, sauna should be avoided for 48 hours, or as advised by your clinician, after treatment.

If you are concerned about symptoms you were not expecting or not happy with, please contact the clinic for advice. If necessary an appointment will be made for you to be seen.


Dr Ian Bowles

Is Botox safe?

All treatments carry a degree of risk. All risks and complications will be discussed with you at consultation and prior to any treatment being agreed. Botulinum Toxin should be administered by a healthcare professional with specialist training. Side effects include, but are not limited to;

  • Bruising
  • Swelling at injection sites
  • Redness at injection sites
  • Asymmetry of expression
  • Drooping of the brow, or eyelid
  • Headache or a sensation of ‘tightness’ or ‘heaviness’

Adverse events are uncommon, usually occur within a few days of treatment and are expected to be temporary, usually resolving spontaneously within weeks. Dr Bowles will provide aftercare advice designed to minimise risk and promote speedy recovery from any expected side effects.