Northern Plastic Surgery (NT)
Anti-wrinkle injections
A naturally occurring toxin that specifically weakens muscles is used. It blocks nerve impulses that initiates wrinkle-causing muscle contraction, when injected into them. It was developed to treat the visual signs of aging by reducing or removing wrinkles. Anti-wrinkle injections are administered in a series of tiny injections into the muscle directly beneath the frown line. The injection causes about 30 seconds of stinging, and occasionally a slight swelling or bruising may occur. The treatment takes up to 15 minutes and should be painless. Within a few days, the muscle action diminishes but the full effect is seen about 7 days after the injection and the results can last between 3 to 6 months. Dynamic wrinkles can be suppressed or even eliminated by the periodic injection of muscle relaxants. After the injection, you can resume normal activities immediately.
Anti-wrinkle injections are a medical product and the way in which it is developed and the amounts used both therapeutically and cosmetically could not lead to poisoning/botulism.
Common areas for injections include horizontal forehead furrows or large wrinkles, excessive facial wrinkles, vertical lines “frown lines” between the eyebrows, small wrinkles or "crow's feet" around the eyes. Wrinkles are caused by a number of factors such as ageing process, movement of muscles, sun damage and smoking. The beneficial effect should last from 4-6 months. Results depend on several factors, such as the potency of the material when injected, the skill of the operator and the metabolism of the patient.
Temporary side effects that some may experience with Anti-wrinkle Injections can include tenderness and bruising at the site of injection. Less frequent side effects can include headache, temporary eyelid droop and nausea. Most clients return to their daily activities immediately after the treatment. At worst, there may occur some bruising which can be covered with foundation or other types of facial camouflage.
Patients are advised of our injection dates and choose to attend for subsequent treatments when they notice the effectiveness of their last injection is beginning to wane. Regular top-up injections at 3-4 month intervals have bee shown to deliver the most effective ongoing results.
The patient should move the muscles in the injected area for 5-10 minutes after the injection, and must remain upright for four hours following treatment, and resist touching or massaging the treated area. This could spread the anti-wrinkle treatments into unwanted areas. The effects will be noticeable 4-7 days later and lasts for between 3-6 months. The results often last longer with further successive treatments.
Complications are uncommon but can occur. The most common complication is partial eyelid droop (occurring in about 2% of injections), and eyebrow droop or asymmetry. This may last up to three weeks, after which it resolves itself. Anti-wrinkle treatments are not to be used in pregnant or lactating women.