Botox is a natural purified protein produced by the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. It is one of the most potent toxins known to mankind and is one of the main causes of food poisoning. However since the past 10 years the toxin has been used (in amounts that are too small to cause toxicity) extensively in medicine. Initially the range of applications was in Ophthalmology, Neurology and Pediatrics but in recent years Botulinum toxin has found extensive use in Cosmetic Medicine.
About the procedure: Botox is a simple, non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure performed by myself. The compound is injected just under your skin in such a way that it diminishes or removes the wrinkles. The procedure is simple, painless and takes only a few minutes. The result of the procedure, much like with other aesthetic procedures, is not permanent – unfortunately the magic bullet that defies ageing is yet to be discovered. The toxin temporarily paralyzes the facial muscles causing the wrinkles. Botulinum toxin was licensed by the US FDA in 2002 and since then several million procedures have been performed worldwide. I use only the best brand available (Botox from Allergan).
Am I a candidate?
If you have infections like Herpes in the treatment areas, if you are hypersensitive to any of the components of the preparation or if you have some neurological conditions like ALS, Myasthenia, etc then it is not advisable to have the injections. In addition the toxin is only for dynamic wrinkles – those wrinkles that are brought on by facial movements. The toxin cannot reduce or remove static wrinkles.
How do you prepare?
After reviewing the facial muscles I will decide in which areas the preparation should be precisely injected. The injection technique requires an in-depth knowledge of the anatomy of the facial musculature. Before the procedure inform me if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. I will take an informed consent from you before the procedure and photographs both before and after (this in about 2 weeks time) will be taken. Refrain from applying heavy make-up on the day of the procedure.
During the procedure:
Botulinum toxin is precisely injected in extremely small quantities in the identified facial musculature. The injection itself is almost painless (if you are extremely sensitive to pain please inform me so that a numbing cream can be applied before the procedure) as the injection size is very small. There may be a transient burning sensation and ice packs may be applied both before and after the injections. After the injections I might ask you to work the muscles injected to help spread the toxin evenly.
Botulinum toxin is generally injected into the forehead lines, lines around the eyes and frown lines between the eyes on the bridge of the nose. There are several other indications for the toxin ranging from treating Marionette lines (lines at the angles of the mouth), chin wrinkles, neck bands, wrinkles on the upper lip, to correct gummy smiles etc. The full effect is visible within the next 4-5 days and I will ask you to return after 2 weeks to assess the final changes. The results generally last 4-6 months. Botulinum toxin can be repeated as often as needed and there are no studies to indicate any harm. With repeated treatments the aesthetic effects of facial rejuvenation tends to get more permanent.
Recovery time:
After the procedure with adequate icing bruising tends to be very minimal. Sometimes a low grade headache is possible which can be managed with Paracetamol. You can get back to work almost immediately. Sunscreens and make-up can be worn with no adverse effects. The full effects begin to take effect within 4-5 days.
Precautions:
The most common side effects are headache, a flu-like syndrome, temporary drooping of the eyelids, and dizziness. Facial pain, redness and swelling are all quite uncommon. Most side effects are temporary and disappear within days to weeks. Botulinum toxin is one of the safest aesthetic procedures.
Package:
The total cost of the injection varies from patient to patient but mostly depends on the number of units of the toxin used. The package includes my consultation fees, the cost of the toxin (based on the number of units used), injection charges, and after care in 2 weeks time.
