Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Botox (Botulinum Toxin)

Botox injections improve your appearance by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles. They are also used to treat a range of medical conditions.

To maintain the results, treatment should be repeated every three to six months.

What is Botox?

Botox is one of the best-known brands of botulinum toxin injection. Botulinum toxins are neurotoxins that act on nerves and weaken muscles. You might have a botulinum toxin injection for cosmetic or medical reasons. Your oculoplastic specialist injects small amounts of Botox into specific muscles to smooth wrinkles and to treat a wide range of other health conditions.

How does Botox work?

Botox blocks the nerve signals to muscles, so the injected muscles cannot contract (tense up). The effect is always temporary, but it can last for several months. Which muscle is injected depends on the main area of concern, and several areas can be treated in a single session.

Which cosmetic concerns can Botox treat?

Cosmetic Botox injections are used to soften the signs of ageing. Treatment can smooth fine lines and wrinkles in several areas of the face, including the:

• Eyebrows
• Forehead
• Nose
• Eyes (crow’s feet)
• Lips
• Chin
• Jawline
• Neck

Which medical conditions can Botox treat?

Botox has been used in medicine for decades. These injections may be recommended for the treatment of:

• Crossed eyes (strabismus)
• Excessive muscle contractions (dystonia)
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Eyelid twitching
• Blepharospasm
• Migraines

What is Botox made of?

The neurotoxins used in Botox are produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. Doctors use a specific type of the bacterium (type A) for medical injections.

Botulinum toxins occur naturally in soil and in contaminated food. Consuming large amounts of botulinum toxin, or getting the bacteria into a wound, can cause botulism, a serious disorder of the nervous system that affects breathing. For safety and effectiveness, Botox is produced in a laboratory, where technicians dilute and sterilise the botulinum toxins so they cannot cause botulism.

Is Botox safe?

Botox is generally safe when administered by a specialist doctor. Ask your medical team whether Botox injections are right for you.

How should I prepare for Botox?

Make sure your healthcare provider has an up-to-date list of the medicines and supplements you take. Certain medicines increase the risk of bruising at the injection site, including anticoagulants or blood thinners (such as warfarin) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Alcohol also makes you more prone to redness and bruising, so avoid drinking for 24 hours before the procedure.

What should I expect during Botox treatment?

Your healthcare provider uses a fine needle to inject small amounts of Botox into the treatment area. Depending on the issue being treated, you may receive several injections in different spots. Here is what else you should know about Botox therapy:

• Botox is an outpatient procedure. You will be able to go home the same day.
• Discomfort is usually mild. The injections may sting, but the procedure is over quickly.

What should I know about aftercare?

Unless your doctor advises otherwise, you can return to work and most activities straight after treatment. To reduce redness, swelling or bruising:

• Do not rub or press on the treated area for 12 hours.
• Stay upright (do not lie down) for three to four hours.
• Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.

How often should you have Botox?

On average, the effects of Botox last about three to four months, and retreatment is recommended at that point. Over time, however, your muscles may learn to contract less, allowing treatments to be spaced further apart. Your oculoplastic specialist can advise how often you should have Botox based on your individual needs.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects from botulinum toxin injections vary depending on the area treated. Most are mild and settle within a day or two. Possible side effects include:

• Pain, swelling, redness or bruising at the treatment site.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• Headache.
• Neck pain.
• Temporary drooping of the eyelids (ptosis).
• Eye irritation or redness.

Who should not have Botox injections?

Botox injections are relatively safe. Even so, you should not have this treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have:

• Neuromuscular disease.
• Drooping eyelids (ptosis).
• Weak facial muscles.

How long does Botox take to work?

Most people notice the desired effect around the third or fourth day after treatment, with the full result visible within 10 to 14 days.

How long does Botox last?

Within three to six months of treatment, the toxin wears off and the muscles regain movement. As a result, wrinkles return, and issues such as migraines or excessive sweating may resume. To maintain your results, you may choose to have further Botox injections; your doctor can advise how often to repeat treatment.

When should I call my oculoplastic specialist?

Botox is a common procedure and serious side effects are rare. However, you should call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Vision problems, including blurred vision or drooping eyelids.
• Shortness of breath (dyspnoea).
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Slurred speech.
• Numbness or paralysis in an untreated area.

Does Botox hurt?

The needles used for Botox injections are extremely fine, so most people feel little or no discomfort during treatment. Some describe a slight pinching or stinging sensation. If you are worried about pain, your healthcare provider can apply a topical numbing gel.

Can you have Botox while pregnant?

Botox injections are unlikely to harm your baby. Nevertheless, most healthcare providers recommend waiting until after you have given birth before having treatment.

Can you have Botox while breastfeeding?

Experts are not certain whether Botox passes into breast milk. To be safe for your baby, most healthcare providers advise against Botox injections while breastfeeding.

Are there other types of botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin injections are available under several brand names, and not all products treat the same problems. Your doctor can discuss the best option for your particular situation. In addition to Botox, options include:

• Dysport
• Xeomin
• Jeuveau

What should I know about Dysport vs. Botox?

Dysport and Botox are both injections made from botulinum toxins. The main difference lies in the potency of the trace proteins in each medication: Dysport may work slightly faster, while Botox may last longer. If you are trying to decide which option is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider.

A note from Athens EyeCare Clinic

If you choose Botox injections, you will need treatment every three to six months to maintain the best results. There is no known risk from having multiple Botox treatments, and many people find that Botox significantly improves their overall quality of life. Talk to your oculoplastic specialist to find out whether this therapy is right for you.