Fine Lines
There are a number of different treatments that can be used individually, or in combination, to combat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Botulinum Toxin
Hyperactivity of the facial expression muscles often results in the development of deep frown lines, forehead lines, or 'crow's-feet' around the eyes. Injection treatment with diluted botulinum toxin temporarily paralyses underlying muscles and, as a result, lines appear less noticeable or disappear altogether. It is a particularly effective treatment for reducing fine lines and wrinkles on the upper face - on the forehead, between the brows and around the eyes.
Procedure
The procedure is performed whilst you are sitting upright. This helps the doctor achieve the best possible result as some of the facial creases and contours are altered if you are lying down. The skin is lightly cleaned, and small amounts of diluted botulinum toxin is injected into the areas likely to give best results.
Advantages
The treatment is quick and causes minimal discomfort. It is safe and effective and has been used in the USA since 1990. Lines are less noticeable or disappear altogether giving a more relaxed appearance to the face.
Side Effects
No severe reactions have been observed following treatment but some minor allergic reactions have been reported. Local symptoms such as pain at the injection sites and some redness and bruising may occur. There may be a temporary loss of sensation but this and other effects tend to be localised and short lived. Very rarely there may be slight drooping of the eyelid following treatment of the forehead. This is easily treatable with eye drops.
Treatment Programme
It will take 4-5 days on average (and sometimes a little longer) for the muscle weakening to begin after treatment. Once established, the effects usually last for 3 months - occasionally longer. If it is your first treatment, you will be seen 2 weeks later to assess the cosmetic effect. Every face is different and, very occasionally, some refinement to the dose used or additional treatment may be necessary to achieve the desired effect. Thereafter, many patients prefer to return for re-treatment at the first sign of return of muscle activity; others prefer to leave it until the muscles are fully active again.
Skin Revitalisation
Skin Revitalisation uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL™) to treat fine lines, as well as brown spots and thread veins. It produces smoother, even-toned, more youthful skin. It can be used in conjunction with the other treatments for fine lines and wrinkles. Treatment with diluted botulinum toxin can be administered immediately afterwards, for convenience and enhanced effect.
