Botulinum Toxin

The active substance of botulinum toxin type A preparations (Dysport, Botox, Vistabel) is a protein that blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. The injected muscles can no longer contract and this can cause wrinkles to relax and soften.

The procedure takes only a few minutes and no anaesthetic is needed. The toxin is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles. It generally takes two to seven days to take full effect and it is best to avoid alcohol at least one week prior to treatment.

The effects of botulinum toxin will last four to six months. As muscle action gradually returns and wrinkles reappear you will need to re-treat the area.

Botulinum toxin products can not only be used for the correction of existing wrinkles but also to prevent their occurrence.

Possible side effects. Temporary bruising can occur. Headaches can occur but are rare, as is eyelid drooping, which typically resolves in 3 weeks and will only affect a small percentage of patients. This is often caused by the migration of the toxin. To avoid this sort of side effect you should not rub the treated area for 12 hours, make sure you are upright for 4 hours following the treatment.

Procedures should not be performed on those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those suffering from hemophilia (a blood disorder) or muscle innervation disorders or those with a history of neurological diseases. You should check with the clinician if you have any medical conditions, or are taking any medications, that may make it unsuitable or unsafe to have botulinum toxin injections.

Prices for anti-wrinkle injections:
One zone £150
Two zones £180
Three zones £210

Dermal Fillers

Facial fillers are used by cosmetic, dermatological, and plastic surgeons to soften deep folds and reduce wrinkles in the faces of patients. The substance is largely hyaluronic acid, a substance normally found in healthy skin that gives it volume and helps provide moisture. With aging skin, the hyaluronic acid synthesis in the body slows down and with the gradual decrease in hyaluronic acid, the skin loses moisture and the ability to preserve it. When the skin is deprived of moisture metabolism slows down and the accumulation of toxins intensifies leading to the formation of wrinkles.

Dermal Fillers are injected in a number of ways. For instance, with the linear technique, the full length of the needle is inserted midway into the wrinkle and the material injected while pulling the needle backwards, slowly. The serial puncture technique involves several injections alongside the wrinkle to lift it. Discuss with your medical professional for specific information relating to your case.

The procedure is performed with very thin needles and can be a little painful. Before the procedure the skin can be desensitised with anaesthetic ointments or topical anaesthesia. The effect is seen immediately after the procedure and remains up to a year. After the injection, the area may be slightly itchy. This naturally subsides within a day or two.

Prices for Dermal fillers:
1 syringe £280
2 syringes £420
3 syringes £560