Fine lines and wrinkles are a normal part of the ageing process, and they are often difficult to avoid. This is because the production of elastin and collagen begin to slow down as you age, causing the appearance of wrinkles. Wrinkles most commonly appear around the eyes, mouth and forehead, making you look older than you actually are. Fortunately, facial aesthetics are a popular service we offer here at PS Dental Care; facial aesthetics are non-surgical cosmetic procedures, sometimes known as anti-wrinkle treatments that are carried out by our Dentist Soho to help bring back a youthful glow to your face.
What is Botox?
Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a common facial aesthetic treatment used to relax the facial muscles responsible for causing frown lines and wrinkles. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum that blocks nerve signals from reaching certain facial muscles.
What cosmetic conditions can Botox treat?
The primary use of Botox is to address signs of ageing by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles in localised areas of your face including your forehead, around your mouth, lips, jawline and neck. Additionally, Botox is used to treat a number of medical conditions such as excessive sweating, chronic migraines, spasticity and excessive muscle contractions.
The Botox procedure
Botox is a non-surgical treatment requiring minimal to no preparation beforehand. Your dentist Soho will discuss your medical history, any allergies or medical conditions you may have before proceeding. It is important to stop taking any blood thinning medication a couple of days before the treatment in order to avoid any bruising from occurring. You will be required to remove any makeup from the treatment area so that a local anaesthetic can be applied in order to numb the area. Once the treatment area is numb, your dentist Soho will use a thick needle filled with the toxin to inject tiny amounts into your skin or muscles. The number of shots required is dependent on the size of the treatment area and sometimes the dentist may need to use an ultrasound in order to guide the needle to the correct site. After the procedure is complete, you will be advised to avoid rubbing the treatment area for the first twenty-four hours, and to avoid lying down for the first two to four hours in order to prevent the toxin from spreading to areas where it is not wanted. As only a local anaesthetic is used, you will be able to return to your normal activities as soon as the treatment is over.
When can I expect the results to show?
Botox injections usually take between one to three days to work with the results being visible within a week of getting the treatment. The effects of Botox usually last three to four months depending on the treatment area therefore you will require regular follow-up injections every few months in order to maintain the effects of the Botox.
What are the risks of getting Botox?
As with all cosmetic procedures, Botox comes with its own risks which your dentist will discuss with you thoroughly before the procedure. Possible side effects or risks that can occur include pain, swelling and bruising at the injection site, a crooked smile or drooling, watery or dry eyes and infection at the site of injection.
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