Muscle relaxant injections or Botulinum toxin, are the most popular anti-ageing treatment to prevent the formation of wrinkles and to soften existing lines.
How do Botulinum Toxin injections work?
These treatments relax the injected muscles, therefore reducing movement. This reduced movement prevents creasing of the skin, hence reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. It only works on the specific muscles injected, leaving surrounding muscles to function as usual maintaining normal facial expression. The results are a smoother, younger-looking appearance, which lasts for 3 to 6 months.
Botulinum Toxin treatments to prevent lines forming
These treatments also work as a preventative measure. If the skin is unable to crease, wrinkles are not able to develop. Over time the benefits of this treatment become more impressive.
Frequently asked questions
Which lines on the face can be treated with Botulinum Toxin treatments?
The upper half of the face is most commonly treated with around 95% of all aesthetic treatments being administered here:
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Crow’s feet on sides of the eyes
- Brow lift
Lower face areas:
- ‘Bunny’ lines either side of the nose
- Down-turned nose tip or nasal flaring
- ‘Smokers’ lines around the lips
- Gummy smile
- Down-turned smile
- Wrinkly chin
- Masseter muscles on the jaw, to smooth and soften the jaw contour or stop jaw clenching (bruxism)
- Platysmal bands – neck bands
These areas are treated ‘off label’ but are commonly used.
When should I start having Botulinum Toxin treatments?
It works best as preventative treatment, to stop lines from forming. The ideal time to start anti-wrinkle treatment is when you start to develop dynamic lines (these are lines that are visible when you make an expression such as frowning) but before you have developed static lines (lines that are visible when your face is relaxed). Static lines will not disappear completely, but will soften with time.
How quickly will I see the results?
While some clients report an almost instant improvement, there should be a noticeable improvement to the lines on your face within 5 days to 2 weeks.
How long do the effects of the injections last?
Results from anti-wrinkle treatments will vary from person to person but it will usually last 3-4 months, and sometimes longer, up to 6 months.
Will I look unnatural after treatment?
One of reasons why anti-wrinkle treatments are so popular is the subtle improvement it makes to your appearance. Friends may comment that you look more relaxed or fresher, but treatment will not radically alter your appearance; it will simply reduce muscle activity. A good treatment will still allow you to frown or smile as you normally would.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects of Botulinum Toxin are rare, it is one of the safest cosmetic procedures available. There is the possibility, however, of the treatment being dispersed into an adjacent muscle. This can cause a temporary raise or droop of the eyebrow or eyelid, which can often be corrected with extra treatment.
Prices:
Traditional upper face areas (frown, forehead and crow’s feet):
1 area £200
2 areas £260
3 areas £320
Men £60 extra per area
Masseter/Jaw clenching £260-320 (every top up after 2-4 weeks is £60)
Neck/Platysmal bands £260-320 (every top up after 2-3 weeks is £60)
Additional areas lower face – £200 if treating alone, prices below are in addition to upper face Toxin:
Bunny lines £60
Smoker’s lip lines £60
Gummy smile £60
Lip flip £60
Downturned smile £60
Wrinkly chin £60
Nasal flare or downturned tip £60
Jawline £60
Masseter £120
Neck/Platysmal bands £120
Please note, top ups are included in the price if deemed appropriate by Dr Tallent, and if performed within 2-4 weeks after initial treatment. After this they are charged at £5 per unit. Except Masseter and neck bands which are £60 per top up.