ΕλληνικαThe treatment with botulinum toxin began to be used in aesthetic medicine in the early 1990 and since then it is one of the most effective and popular non-invasive techniques worldwide. Every year at least 10 million treatments with botulinum toxin are carried out internationally.
It is marketed either as botulinum toxin by Allergal or as Dysport by Ipsen, it is completely safe, certified and approved for use both in the European Union and in America.
What is botulinum toxin?
Essentially it is a protein botulinum toxin type A, which is mainly used in neurological conditions such as spasticity and is now one of the best weapons we have to deal with wrinkles. This is due to its action which is muscle relaxant. When injected in small amounts it prevents repetitive muscle contraction, which is responsible for the creation of wrinkles. Botulinum toxin does not fill wrinkles as most people tend to think simply because of the reduced mobility of muscles wrinkles fade and skin regains its youthful and radiance.
Who are eligible to proceed with botulinum toxin treatment?
In treatment with botulinum toxin can advance men and women who are beginning to observe the first signs of ageing, but generally those who want to delay this process. Botulinum toxin therapy is not indicated for those suffering from severe neuromuscular diseases or for pregnant women.
What is the ideal age for someone to start treatment with botulinum toxin?
There is no ideal age for anyone to start treatment with botulinum toxin. As each of us is different so the age of initiation of therapy differs because the needs of the skin are not the same. One may need botulinum toxin treatment at 30 years, someone else at 35 or 40. It always depends on the rhythm of ageing, the quality of the skin, how often it makes morphations etc.
In which areas is it possible to apply botulinum toxin therapy?
Botulinum toxin therapy can be applied in the following areas:
- In the forehead area (surprise wrinkles)
- In Mesofryo (Anger wrinkles)
- On the upper lip (smoked wrinkles)
- In the area around the eyes (crow’s feet)
- In nasoparial sulcus (sadness wrinkles)
- Throat
- Facial Contour
How is botulinum toxin treated?
The whole process takes place in the infirmary. Before the treatment is done, the doctor marks the points where the injections will be made with a white pencil and applies anesthetic cream. Then it performs multiple joints locally in the muscles. The procedure has minimal pain and its duration is about 20 minutes.
When do the results become visible?
The effects of botulinum toxin therapy are perceived a few hours later. They are finalised after 10 to 15 days. Then another visit is made to the plastic surgeon’s office in order to assess the results and intervene if necessary.
What is the duration of the results?
The usual duration of treatment results with botulinum toxin varies between 4 and 6 months. It always depends on the age and quality of the skin of each person.
Is there any chance of complications?
The right choice of plastic surgeon eliminates the possibility of complications. All that is observed are bruises on the spots, which can easily be covered with makeup and subside in the next few days. Any subtle asymmeances that may be corrected during a repeat visit after 15 days where the results have been finalised.
How painful is the application?
The application of Botox is carried out through a very thin needle and after spreading with anesthetic cream, so the pain is minimal. The patients themselves describe him as an imperceptible insect bite, which is easily tolerated.
When can a botulinum toxin be repeated?
Treatment with botulinum toxin would be good not to repeat more than 3 to 4 times per year. If the treatment is done most often there is a serious case the body does not respond as effectively to the drug and you do not have the desired results.
With the botulinum toxin treatment will I always have the same expression?
This is a myth circulating about botulinum toxin therapy. Unfortunately this risk exists but only if you do not choose the appropriate plastic surgeon. An experienced doctor knows exactly where to inject and how much material you really need so there is no way to have a frozen expression.
If I start treatment with botulinum toxin, do I have to do it all the time?
Another myth is that if you start treatment with botulinum toxin you will have to carry it out for life because in case you stop applying your skin image will deteriorate and will be worse than it was before you started. Not only will your image deteriorate but even stopping treatment will be clearly better than never having applied it. You can make as many treatments as you wish or stop from the first application without any consequence. The muscles that because of the active substance of botulinum toxin had fallen into hibernation fully reset their mobility and there is absolutely no problem.
What other techniques can I combine to treat with botulinum toxin?
You can combine the treatment with botulinum toxin with other aesthetic therapies such as infusions with hyaluronic acid, fractional laser, etc. To achieve even more impressive results.
Useful tips for the first few days after application with botulinum toxin treatment
- Do not come into contact with hot water in the first 24 hours.
- Do not massage the treated area.
- Do not lie down for at least 3 to 4 hours after application.
- Don’t sleep on your stomach.
- Do not consume alcohol in the first 24 hours.