Overview
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Throughout life we laugh, frown and concentrate through the many situations we find ourselves in. And over time, those expressions leave their mark upon your face. Today it is a relatively simple treatment to combat these effects with Anti-wrinkle Injections.
One of the best anti-wrinkle treatments available is a natural, purified protein that relaxes wrinkle-causing muscles creating a smoother, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance. Although the substance is derived from a bacterium, as many of our other commonly used medicines are, it has the ability of being able to be purified making it safe to be used in extremely small amounts that when injected does not spread outside the immediate muscles treated.
Over the past ten years, this purified protein has been used to help the terrible effects of spasms and facial tics in cerebral palsy children and adults. It is this same product in much smaller quantities that has successfully used for eliminating or softening wrinkles and facial lines induced by ageing or recurrent facial expressions.
Anti wrinkle injections differ to treatments such as cosmetic fillers or fat injections as the filling substances are only able to plump or fill in the wrinkle, not reduce the cause of the wrinkle. See Cosmetic Dermal Filling for more information.
The Procedure
The anti-wrinkle injection is administered using a sterile disposable syringe and a very fine needle that is placed directly into the muscles responsible for the wrinkle. The number of injections required varies depending upon what area is being treated. Ice is applied before and after the treatment to numb the area, however the procedure is quick and generally relatively painless. The area treated is usually red for only a few minutes and then settles completely.
Recovery Process
The anti-wrinkle injection usually takes effect two to seven days following the procedure and lasts for approximately three to six months. As the product wears off, the wrinkles return slightly, but subsequent injections can result in more prolonged results. It is important that following the procedure, the patient remains in the upright position for four hours. It is also necessary to exercise the muscles concerned to ensure adequate circulation of the substance throughout the muscle. However, manual manipulation of the treated area is not recommended as this may transfer the injected substance to neighbouring muscles.
Considerations
Some of the most effective areas that can be treated are the crows’ feet around the eyes, the frown area and the forehead. Other areas can be treated to varying degrees. It is important for the patient to understand that this procedure will make it difficult to frown, if the frown area is treated. It is also important to inform the doctor if you are pregnant, or if you have any neurological diseases or disorders.
Possible Side Effects
The anti-wrinkle treatment substance has been used for more than ten years for medical conditions involving muscle spasm. Its use for cosmetic purposes is more recent and growing. Allergy and complications are rare but can occur. The most common complication results from neighbouring muscle weakness causing partial eyelid droop, temporary double vision or transient headaches. For a small group of clients with a history of muscle disorders the treatment will not be suitable. It is also not recommended in pregnancy. Any background medical condition or current medication should be discussed with your doctor.
Risks & Complications
Side effects from this procedure are minimal. Bruising or numbness may occur at the injection sites. In 2% of cases, the eyelid may droop when forehead lines are treated. This can be corrected if it does occur. This complication is temporary and usually lasts for several days; very rarely this may last for two weeks. In a very small number of patients, the injections do not work as satisfactorily, or for as long a period as expected.
FAQs
How does it work?
A tiny amount of the wrinkle treatment substance is injected into the muscle that creates the dynamic (or movement) wrinkle. When the substance is injected into a muscle, it blocks the nerve impulse from reaching that area, and as a result, the muscle relaxes. As the muscle relaxes, the dynamic wrinkle overlying the muscle is smoothed away softening the effect on the skin.
What does it feel like?
Ice is used to minimize the discomfort. Most people find the treatment quick and easy and not too uncomfortable. There may be an initial minor sting for the first few seconds at the injection site as each muscle is injected. Some patients can have a mild sensation of ‘fullness’ or ‘pressure’ for a while afterwards, while some may get a headache or feeling of heaviness.
How long does it last?
The initial effect usually occurs within three to seven days, with the maximum muscle relaxation reached within one to two weeks, and lasting approximately three months. After this, the option is to return for a repeat dose to maintain the effect.
