What are anti-wrinke injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections are the most common world-wide cosmetic procedure with approximately 5 million treatments internationally per anum. It is a highly refined, naturally occurring protein that blocks muscle nerve fibres from firing when injected into specific facial muscles. This results in relaxation of the muscle.
After treatment, the overlying skin remains smooth and wrinkle free due to the relaxed state of the underlying muscle
What are dermal fillers?
Over time, we naturally lose volume and skin support in the face, causing shadowing, lines and folds in the skin. Dermal fillers are complex carbohydrate molecules that can be injected under the skin in order to return volume and softness, and return the skin to a youthful vibrant state.
This is an easily reversible, safe way of naturally enhancing ones facial features.
What are permanent double-chin injections?
A substance called deoxycholic acid is injected into the chin that chemically dissolves fat cells permanently from the area of injection. This is a permanent treatment to remove fat cells. The treatment requires two sessions, 4-6weeks apart for optimal results.
Is the procedure painful?
There is mild discomfort during the procedure, however most patients tolerate this well. In particularly sensitive areas such as lips, a topical local anaesthetic gel is applied before treatment to ease any discomfort.
Will there be bruising?
The amount of bruising varies depending on the type of procedure and the location. You are less likely to bruise from anti-wrinkle injections than dermal fillers. The face has a very rich blood supply and so it is more prone to bruising than elsewhere on the body. It is a good idea to avoid planning a treatment the day of or the day before a significant social engagement.
How quickly will I see results?
Anti-wrinkle injections take 1-2 days to activate. Dermal fillers will be noticeable immediately.
How long will results last?
Every body is different in the way in which it metabolises natural substances. However, on average anti-wrinkle effects last approximately 3-4months.
Depending on the viscosity of the product used, dermal fillers will last between 6-9months for thinner fillers, and up to 2yrs for thicker fillers.
Is there anything I should avoid after treatment?
It is important to remain in an upright position for at least 4hrs after a given treatment; avoid significant heat; avoid any facial treatments or vigorous body massages to avoid moving the products to undesired locations. Avoid touching your face, or putting any make-up over the skin as this is a contamination risk.
I am prone to cold sores. Is this a problem?
If you have an active cold-sore, you cannot receive any cosmetic injection to avoid exacerbating the coldsore. If you are prone to coldsores, it is advisable to take a course of Famvir 12-24hrs prior a treatment to minimise the chance of an outbreak.
Can I have anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?
No, it is best to wait until after conception and completion of breastfeeding before commencing anti-wrinkle or dermal filler treatment. Although neither product enters the blood-stream in any significant amount during treatment, no ethical human trials have been conducted in order to confirm definitively the safe use of these products during pregnancy and breastfeeding
How can I prepare for my first appointment?
It is best to arrive early to complete all consent forms. You will be asked to complete a consent form for both anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers, although we may not do both treatments in a given treatment session.
You will also be asked to consent to clinical photography for medical record keeping.
Please avoid wearing make-up, as this will be removed prior treatment.
Please notify staff at the time of booking for which treatment you would like to undergo.
What should I expect during my consultation and treatment?
You will undergo a full facial assessment by your treating doctor. She will discuss treatment options with you, after reviewing your medical history and previous cosmetic treatments, if any.
You should expect clinical photography--this is the best way to compare and fully appreciate the changes that have taken place. A treatment will take place on a comfortable medical recliner.
At the end of treatment, a follow up appointment will be made for 2 weeks time in order to review outcomes. Occasionally, additional product may be purchased to achieve the desired result.
What happens if the end result is not what I was expecting?
Anti-wrinkle injections will reach full effect only in a few days time. This is why a 2-week follow up appointment is so crucial. At this point, there is the opportunity to augment/increase any effect sought by you.
Dermal filler outcomes are evident almost immediately. There is natural swelling that occurs during the procedure however, so again a 2-week follow up appointment is essential to reassess treatment aims.