Anti-Wrinkle Injections
How does the treatment work?
Many facial wrinkles occur when we use our muscles to make repeated facial expressions. An anti-wrinkle injection, or muscle relaxer, can be used to relax specific facial muscles that cause expression lines. With the muscle relaxed, undesirable expressive lines are reduced, the skin will smooth and new lines are prevented from forming.
Where can the treatment be used?
Anti-wrinkle injections are used in both men and women for the reduction or elimination of:
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Horizontal lines of the forehead
- Crows feet or smile lines around the eyes
- Lines around the mouth
- Downturned mouth corners
- Neck bands or 'turkey neck'
What does the treatment involve?
It is a non-surgical treatment which involves a small injection into selected facial muscles using a very fine needle. The treatment generally takes around 10 minutes. Discomfort is generally minimal and brief, and no anaesthetic is usually required. Should you be particularly worried about discomfort, and anaesthetic cream can be applied prior to the injection.
How long will it last?
For most people, the effect will last 4 months before lines slowly begin to return. If you have repeat treatments, the effect tends to last longer.
Are there any side effects?
In addition to cosmetic use, muscle relaxers have been used for many years for the treatment of various medical conditions, and have an excellent safety profile. Side effects are uncommon and if experienced, temporary. Possible side effects include headaches, pain, bruising, redness or swelling at the injection site. Very rarely, local muscle weakness has been reported, causing temporary drooping of the eyelid.
Will facial expression be affected and will anyone be able to tell I've had treatment?
The anti-wrinkle injection works specifically on the muscle being treated, therefore untreated facial muscles are not affected. This allows unwanted or undesirable facial movements to be softened while untreated muscles continue to allow normal facial movement and expression. The effect of treatment is subtle and natural. People often report following a treatment friends and family have commented on how well they look but have been unable to specify the exact change.