Wrinkle Relaxer
As we age we begin to notice the formation of lines and wrinkles that occur with facial expression and movement, these are called dynamic lines. With the continued and repeated use of facial muscles combined with volume loss, loss of subcutaneous fat, changes to facial bones, and loss and damage to collagen and elastin within the skin these dynamic lines eventually form static lines which are present at rest.
Dynamic lines which occur with movement can be successfully treated with injections of botulinim boxin type A which effectively and safely results in ‘wrinkle relaxation’ in the area of concern. Wrinkle relaxing injections target the specific muscle group and work to temporarily reduce movement in the area resulting in less visible wrinkles.
Wrinkle relaxer injections are a highly purified toxin called Botulinim Toxin type A, which is derived from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinim. They work by blocking the transmitting messages between nerve and muscle cells meaning muscle cells are unable to contract. With the resultant reduction in muscle contraction the appearance of existing wrinkles the lessened and the formation of new ones is prevented.
Injections of wrinkle relaxers are useful wherever there are dynamic lines or areas of overactive muscle. Areas that are treated include:
- Frown lines
- Forehead lines
- Crows feet
- Bunny lines on the nose
- Dimpling of the chin
- Upper lip lines and corners of the mouth
- Widened or square jaw
Prior to treatment Dr Chan will assess the condition of your skin, areas of concern and your expectations and will tailor a treatment plan for your individual needs. The procedure generally lasts 10-15 minutes and involves the injection of small volumes of fluid into the target muscles using a very fine needle. The procedure is usually painless with some client’s reporting a stinging sensation and discomfort which is easily reduced by applying an ice pack or numbing cream to the area before injecting.
Results become evident after a few days with the maximal effect at 2 weeks. At this time Dr Chan offers free follow-up appointments to ensure you are satisfied with your results and assess the need for ‘top-ups’ or any complementary treatments if required.
Generally most people find the benefits of anti-wrinkle injections will last up to 3-4 months. After this time the muscles gradually return to their pre-injection state with the wrinkles returning, although many people state they still appear softer. Repeated injections are recommended to maintain muscle relaxation and to prevent the formation of new wrinkles, which is why anti-wrinkle injections is the ideal ‘preventative’ treatment. With repeated treatments the effect is often longer lasting as the muscles weaken with time, this means longer intervals between treatments.
Following treatment with anti-wrinkle injections normal activities can be resumed. Dr Chan will provide you with full after care instructions. There are some general precautions that should be taken to reduce the risks of side effects and to obtain the best possible results
- Ice can be applied to reduce discomfort, swelling and bruising
- Do not rub or massage the affected area for 24 hours
- Do no lie down, or do strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours
Yes. These medication have been extensively s researched for over 20 years with well established safety data. With any medical procedure there are always risks involved and Dr Kate will discuss all risks and contraindications prior to performing any procedure. Side effects are uncommon. Some possible after effects include:
- Bruising
- Redness
- Itching
- Mild headache or pain
- Temporary dropping of the eye lids (ptosis) may occur. This occurs in less than 1% of patients and is temporary, generally lasts only 4 weeks.
- Double vision in rare cases with treatment to the eyes
- Difficulty swallowing, whistling, speaking and asymmetrical smile – with certain mouth treatments
Wrinkle relaxing injections cannot be given in people with underlying neurological conditions such as Myasthena gravis and in pregnant or breastfeeding women.