Treatment with Botox® or Vistabel® for reduction of facial wrinkles.

Lines and wrinkles are part of the natural ageing process and are due to the repeated pull of the muscles used to laugh, cry, talk and frown. Over time wrinkles form which reflect this muscle movement.

The aim of treatment is to break the habit of frowning and reduce the tendency of the muscles to frown. You may feel that, due to the pressures of modern life, you have earned a few facial lines but thanks to Botox®/Vistabel® you need not be concerned about them again.

What is Botox®/Vistabel®?

Botox® and Vistabel® are the trade names for Botulinum Toxin, which temporarily blocks the nerve impulses which cause the muscles to contract. Botox® was first used in the 1970s to treat squints in children and is also used to reduce excessive sweating from the armpits and various other medical treatments. It has been well researched and tested and has a proven safety record. Botox® and Vistabel® are identical products but only Vistabel® is licensed in the UK for cosmetic wrinkle reduction treatments, whilst Botox® is licensed for medical applications. Only Botox® or Vistabel® will be used in your treatment.

Does it hurt?

Very fine, micro needles and a small amount of solution are used the discomfort from the injections is minimal. You can resume normal activities immediately.

Is it dangerous?

Botox® injections have been used for many years safely and effectively to treat eye and nerve conditions. Each year thousands of patients receive Botox® for varied conditions. It is a very popular treatment for reversing the signs of ageing.

How long does it last?

The improvement you will achieve lasts for about four months although six months is not uncommon in younger patients. You will notice a gradual fading of the effect after this time, at which point many people return for a repeat treatment. If you are new to Botox®/ Vistabel® treatments then best results are obtained by having three treatments in your first year, following which only two may be needed. As we are all individuals and have an individual response to all treatment products, your response to be monitored to determine the optimum re-treatment time for you. Older patients may require more frequent treatments as the skin has had a longer time to form wrinkles. Smokers also may have a reduced effect due to the skin ageing effects of tobacco.

What about side effects?

The most common side effects are from the injection rather than the product itself. Most commonly there will be temporary and localised redness and bruising at the injection site, also there may be a slight swelling. Any redness or bruising is usually of a minor nature and can be covered by makeup. Rarely an eyelid or brow ptosis (droop) is noticed, this is caused by some of the product spreading to the eye area. Eyelid ptosis may be resolved by using eye drops whilst brow droop wears off as the effects of the treatment lessen. Occasionally the outer edge of the eyebrow may appear raised and whilst many ladies find this attractive, gentlemen do not. It can be eliminated by a further injection above the eyelid. Headache is also common following treatment and is caused by the effect of the injection rather than the product itself.

How will I look afterwards?

 
The results are amazing. It may take up to two weeks to see the full improvement. The skin will appear smoother with a youthful glowing appearance. You can smile and laugh again with confidence.  As an additional benefit, Botox® and Vistabel® slow down the secretions from your sweat glands so you will see less perspiration on your upper face.

About your clinician

Dr. Steve Cox is a dental surgeon with thirty years experience, offering general dental care and specialising in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry at his dental practice in Southam, Warwickshire. He has over fifteen years experience undertaking treatments in the face and jaw departments of two local hospitals. He was trained in the use of Botulinum Toxin and skin fillers for aesthetic use, by Doctors David Dean and Steven Kaldoor at the Ascot Skin Clinic in Berkshire.