Botox Cosmetic® / Dysport® / Xeomin® Treatment

What It Is

There are many muscles in the face that contribute to facial expression – both positive and negative. Wrinkle relaxers play a role in allowing our best attributes to shine forth while keeping a completely natural appearance. They work by fine-tuning the activity of certain muscles. Thus, they can be used to soften wrinkles and fine lines, turn up the corners of the mouth, contour a strong jawline and even help the texture of your chin.

Treatment Areas

Wrinkle relaxers are most commonly used to treat areas of the face where there is significant repeated muscle movement. “Crow’s feet”, which are facial wrinkles that form on the outside corners of the eyes from squinting and smiling, are a very popular area for treatment. Additionally, furrows on the forehead and frown lines are other commonly treated areas.

There are some kinds of facial wrinkles that are the result of gravity or sun damage and cannot be treated by wrinkle relaxers. They’ll require other cosmetic treatments, such as fillers. During your consultation, your Medical Aesthetician will be able to inform you of the difference and which treatment option is best for you.

How to Prepare

If you are considering having a wrinkle relaxer treatment, there are a few general guidelines we recommend for our patients to follow.

• Stop taking Aspirin and any other kinds of anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks before your treatment appointment.
• Avoid alcohol consumption at least 1 week beforehand.
• If you are pregnant or are breastfeeding, have a neurological disorder, or an allergy to the injectables’ ingredients, you are not eligible for the treatment.

How It Works

As previously mentioned, wrinkles that have been formed by repetitive movements such as frowning or squinting, or muscle contractions, can be treated using Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport® and Xeomin® treatments. Using an ultra-thin needle, the Aesthetic Nurse Injector will inject the wrinkle relaxer formulation into the affected area. As its name suggests, the injectable carefully relaxes the targeted muscles in your face to prevent the involuntary muscle contractions that have caused these facial wrinkles to form.

The procedure itself is quick and relatively painless, aside from a minor “pinch” from the needle. However, if you happen to be more sensitive, you have the option of topical numbing prior to undergoing the procedure.

Results You Can Expect

With muscle relaxers, you can expect a more refreshed, youthful appearance. By reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles, you will appear more relaxed than before.

Typically, your results will start showing two to three days after the procedure (although this will vary from person to person), with full results noticeable within two weeks. Of course, your results will depend on what areas were treated and with what dosage. In order to retain your refreshed appearance, it is recommended that you repeat the treatment every four months.

Aftercare and Recovery

Since wrinkle treatments are non-invasive, the procedure typically takes just 15 minutes or less. There is no downtime or recovery required after the treatment, however, there are a few things you avoid for 24 hours following the procedure.

• Do not touch or rub the treated area
• Avoid having a facial or any kind of massage
• Avoid strenuous activity
• Do not consume large amounts of alcohol
• Avoid hot tubs and saunas

You can typically resume your normal, everyday skin routine immediately following the procedure.

Potential Complications

While wrinkle relaxers are considered a comparatively safe and effective treatment it does come with a few potential side effects, just as any other procedure. Immediately following the treatment, it is common to experience slight redness or swelling around the injection sites. Bruising may also occur but is more rare. These side effects are normal and will disappear within a couple of days.

More rare, yet serious, complications may include adjacent muscles being affected. This mayl result in unwanted outcomes such as a drooping eyelid. There may also be difficulty in swallowing following a procedure, yet this is complication is rarely reported.

Your Medical Aesthetician will ensure that you are aware of all the risks of the treatment, as well as their likelihoods so that you can make an informed decision.

Myths and Facts

Media has perpetuated a common misconception that muscle relaxers will give you a “frozen” or completely expressionless appearance. However, this is actually very rare and is usually the result of an overdosage. Experienced medical professionals will know the right amount of units to use in each unique case, ensuring that you receive the most natural-looking outcome and best results possible.

Why Choose APT Medical?

If you’re considering a Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport® or Xeomin® treatment, APT Medical can help you! Don’t let the look of wrinkles or fine lines keep you from feeling your most confident self. Soften the look of wrinkles for a naturally refreshed appearance. Contact us today to book a consultation.