Muscle relaxant injections
Frown lines, facial furrows and wrinkles are caused by the constant movement and contraction of muscles beneath the skin. By the injection of minute quantities of highly purified Botulinum toxin ("Botox"), these muscles can be relaxed thereby softening and diminishing the appearance of the overlying frown lines and wrinkles. Botox also blocks the release of sweat from sweat glands and so is also used for the problem of excessive underarm sweating (hyperhydrosis).
 |
 |
|
Which Areas Can Be Treated? The upper third of the face primarily benefits from Botox treatment: the forehead, the furrows between the eyebrows (the glabellar region), and the lines around the eyes ("crow's feet"). The injections have the effect of relaxing the muscles, thereby reducing the degree of frowning. [Treatment is administered to the armpits to abolish sweating.]
|
 |
 |
|
Treatment is administered by a number of small fine-needle injections, that take only a few minutes to perform. The injections do sting a little and although no anaesthetic is required, an ice pack can be applied to the area prior to treatment to reduce discomfort.
|
 |
 |
|
What to Expect Botox usually starts to take effect after around 3 days, reaching maximum effect at 7-10 days. Further "touch-up" injections can be administered at this time if necessary. The effect of Botox initally lasts for 3-4 months (longer when used for excessive sweating) but this may increase after repeat injections. |
|
Costs The initial consultation costs £60, although this is waived if treatment is provided at that consultation. Cost of treatment: £210 for one area + £110 per additional area. Areas: glabella, forehead, eyes. Treatment for armpit sweating - separate tariff.
|