Non-Surgical Procedures

What are Botulinum Toxin (Botox ®) Injections?

Botulinum Toxin, more commonly known as Botox ®, injections are used to reduce lines and wrinkles.  This treatment is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure worldwide.

What is Botox ®?

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that is used to relax muscles.  Botox ® is the tradename used by Allergan for their botulinum toxin.  There are number of other manufacturers of botulinum toxins.

What is Botox ® used for?

Botulinum toxin is used in cosmetic procedures to reduce lines and wrinkles.  There are many other uses for it.  It is a useful treatment for hyperhidrosis, which is a condition resulting in excessive sweating.  It is often used in children and adults with muscle spasticity.  It is also used for migraines, bladder instability and more novel uses are constantly being reported.

Is Botox ® safe?

The doses of Botox ® used for cosmetic facial procedures are much lower than those doses used in children with muscle spasticity.  As with any procedure there are potential risks and complications.

What are the complications of Botox ®?

The potential complications of treatment are rare but include:

Bruising, Bleeding, Swelling

Immediately after injection you may experience some bruising or bleeding.  It is normal to have some swelling at the injection sites immediately after the procedure.  This swelling usually resolves within a few hours.  If you get bruising this may take a few days to resolve.

Eyelid or Brow Droop or Ptosis

You may experience a minor drop in first few days after  treatment but this is usually temporary and resolves within 2 weeks.  Occasionally, however, it may spread or migrate and weaken nearby muscles.  The result of this may include drooping of the area treated such as drooping of the brow, eyelid or mouth.  This is uncommon and if injected by an experienced surgeon the risks should be minimal.  There are other factors that can result in spreading of the Botox ® such as massaging or rubbing the area after treatment.  Mr Nassab will advise you about things to avoid following treatment.

Asymmetry

Everyone has some degree of asymmetry or unevenness.  After treatment, some areas may take the Botox ® better than others.  This means there may be some areas that are uneven.  This can easily be corrected using an additional treatment.

Do I see the results immediately?

No.  It takes time for the treatment to work on the muscle.  You will usually see some signs of treatment after 4-5 days but it can take up to 2 weeks to see the full effects of the treatment.

How long does Botox ® last for?

It usually lasts for 3-4 months.  Some patients may experience loss of the  effect earlier and in some it may last longer.  You usually notice some movement in the treated areas indicating that the effect is wearing off.

Where can I get Botox ® Treatment?

Mr Nassab offers treatments in Cheshire, Manchester, and London.  He offers consultations at 52 Alderley Road, The Wilmslow Hospital, Cheshire and Spire Murrayfield Wirral.  He has a well-established practice at Sk:n Harley Street, London and Sk:n Holborn, London.