face procedures
Botox
What is Botox?
Botox® and Dysport® are the trade names for Botulinum Toxin, which is produced by a bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum. Various types of toxins have been identified, but the commercially used type A is the most potent. Botox acts by blocking acetylcholine, a chemical responsible for transmitting electrical impulses that lead to muscle contraction. This ultimately results in muscle paralysis. However, this paralysis is temporary as the muscles will be re-innervated by newly grown nerves.
In 1978, Botox was first used to weaken overactive muscles in the eye, and later on, it was found to be effective in treating other neurological conditions such as dystonia and hemifacial spasm minimal side effects. It wasn’t until 1990 that Botox was first used for cosmetic purposes, specifically to diminish facial wrinkles caused by muscle contraction.
Why Have Botox?
Botox injections temporarily relax the facial muscles that contribute to wrinkle formation leading to a more rejuvenated skin appearance.
Ageing is a natural process that includes the development of wrinkles. These wrinkles can be caused by various factors like sun damage, gravity, and muscle contractions from facial expressions like frowning and laughing. Gravity-induced wrinkles are a result of tissue sagging with age and are typically only treatable through surgical procedures. On the other hand, wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, such as frown lines and crow’s feet, can be improved with Botox injections.
Additionally, Botox can also effectively treat excessive sweating in areas like the armpits and palms of the hands.
How is Botox Performed?
Botox is administered by injecting it directly into the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles, using a very small needle. The number of injections required and their specific locations depend on the targeted area being treated.
In the case of treating excessive sweating in the armpits, Botox is injected directly into the skin of the axillary region. While localised discomfort and bruising may arise, sedation or local anaesthesia is typically unnecessary.
Following the procedure, normal activities can be resumed immediately.
What are the Results?
The effects of Botox typically become noticeable within 24-72 hours following the injection, reaching their peak effectiveness after 1 to 2 weeks. Generally, these effects last for around 3-4 months, resulting in a more relaxed and smoother facial appearance when administered to the muscles responsible for expression wrinkles.
In certain cases, the effects of Botox may last even longer (9-12 months) when used to treat excessive sweating. When you notice a gradual diminishing of the treatment’s effectiveness, you can schedule another session to maintain the desired results.
Our Doctors
Michael McBride FRCS (Plast)
