Injections of botulin toxin

Injections of botulin toxin are used to smooth facial and neck wrinkles and to rejuvenate the face. Botulin toxin injections are also used to treat excessive sweating, migraine headaches and muscle spasms.

Procedure

The procedure is performed during the consultation. The drug is injected into the correct location using a thin needle. Botulin toxin relaxes the mimic muscles and smooths wrinkles. The patient is asked to perform a number of facial expressions in order to accurately determine the injection points. Before the procedure the skin may be anesthetized with a special cream. Botulin toxin takes anywhere between a few days and a week to take effect, so you will not see immediate results.

The most common locations for botulin toxin injections are the forehead, wrinkles between and around the eyes and the nasolabial folds, but other locations may be selected as well.

Operation risks

Botulin toxin injections, like any other intervention, may have side effects, such as small bruises, temporary drooping of the eyelids, headaches and nausea. Other possible complications or adverse reactions should be discussed with the plastic surgeon during the consultation.

Postoperative period

A few hours after the procedure the patient may return to normal physical activity and return to work. Sometimes, the procedure needs to be repeated after a week or two, to top up the levels of the drug and obtain the desired effect.

The effect of botulin toxin injections is temporary and lasts 3-12 months. Repeating the procedure will cause the effect to last longer and longer, but if decided to discontinue the procedure, muscle activity will recover completely.