Anti Wrinkle Injections in London
Anti-wrinkle injections or wrinkle relaxing injections are a non-invasive anti-ageing treatment which can address fine lines and wrinkles in the face. Wrinkle-relaxing injections, neuromodulators and neurotoxins all refer to the same thing. There are three areas where neurotoxin is particularly effective: the frown lines (lines between the eyes), the horizontal lines of the forehead and the lateral canthal lines, also known as ‘crow’s feet’ at the outer aspect of the eyes. Anti-wrinkle injections function through the relaxation of dynamic wrinkles as opposed to static wrinkles, which are lines at rest. Anti-wrinkle injections are also great for relaxing the muscles responsible for facial expressions such as smiling, frowning and squinting. Through achieving relaxation of the underlying facial muscles, the wrinkles are smoothened out, giving rise to a more rejuvenated appearance to the face, particularly the upper third.
Anti-wrinkle injections are most effective when patients start to use them at a younger age – late 20s and early 30s are ideal. Over time, the skin in the areas of facial expression begins to form fine lines due to overactivity of the involved muscles, such as eyebrow-raising, smiling and squinting. Many people have found neurotoxins to be highly effective when used from the age of 20. For older patients, anti-wrinkle injections are also incredibly useful once they start to form wrinkles at rest, also known as static wrinkles. Muscle relaxant injections also complement dermal fillers treatment.
Expected Results after anti-wrinkle injections
- Smoothening out of wrinkles in the upper third of the face (this can occur as soon as 4-5 days after neurotoxin treatment)
- Improve the appearance of an overly prominent gummy smile
- Improvement in perioral lines
- Reduce jaw clenching through targeted relaxation of the masseter muscle and create slimming of the jawline.
- Neuromodulators can create a mild brow lift effect by increasing the height of the lateral eyebrow to increase the arch in the eyebrow.
- Anti-wrinkle injections relax the facial musculature responsible for many common facial expressions.
- Results from anti-wrinkle injections can last up to four months
Benefits of anti-wrinkle injections at Centre for Surgery
- Only trained aesthetic practitioners and dermatologists inject anti-wrinkle injections for maximum safety
- Very quick 10-15 minute treatment
- Non-invasive with no need for surgery or general anaesthetic
- No incisions or scars
- Fast recovery with no downtime with no disruption to your normal daily routine
- Natural looking results
- Based in London’s top medical district in Marylebone, central London
RealSelf Top Doctors
RealSelf’s top doctor status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community. This status is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction (from RealSelf reviews), getting excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activities. RealSelf’s top doctors are rated among the best dermatologists in the United Kingdom.
Trust a Specialist For Anti Wrinkle Injections
A cosmetic dermatologist is trained to undertake non-surgical, and laser procedures in the face and neck region. They are dedicated sub-specialists. Compared with general dermatologists, cosmetic dermatologists are inherently better trained to perform both minimally invasive surgical, laser and non-surgical procedures of the face. The extra years of surgical training by facial specialists focused on the facial region results in an exceptionally high degree of skill. At Centre for Surgery, only highly qualified medical practitioners perform injectable treatments. Facial injectables in the UK can currently be performed by any practitioner, even if they lack medical training. This has resulted in several unregulated providers, such as beauty salons and even gyms offering facial injectable treatments. At Centre for Surgery, we believe this practice carries great risk for potential patients and the risk of adverse outcomes is markedly increased in untrained hands. We only offer facial injectable treatments by fully trained cosmetic dermatologists and medically trained and fully registered aesthetic practitioners.
What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injectables?
Anti-wrinkle injections are a non-invasive method employing muscle relaxants that aid in easing the muscles responsible for the formation of wrinkles and creases in the skin. By manipulating muscle activity dynamics, anti-wrinkle injectables contribute to a more youthful and rejuvenated facial appearance.
The primary component of anti-wrinkle injections is a protein that has undergone purification and is subsequently diluted. The mechanism of action for these injections involves blocking the chemical signals that prompt muscles to contract. By inhibiting muscle contractions, the deepening of fine lines can be effectively hindered, which in turn, deters the formation of static lines, helping to counteract the natural ageing process.
The areas that are frequently targeted for treatment include the lines encircling the eyes and those on the forehead. However, anti-wrinkle injections can also be employed to reduce lines around the mouth, nose, chin, jaw, and neck.
There is an array of applications for anti-wrinkle injections which includes:
- Forehead Lines: Smoothens horizontal lines on the forehead caused by raising the eyebrows.
- Frown Lines: Reduces the appearance of lines between the eyebrows that occur due to frowning.
- Crow’s Feet: Addresses lines that fan out from the corners of the eyes, often referred to as ‘crow’s feet’.
- Chin Dimples: Minimises the appearance of dimpling on the chin.
- Facial Slimming: Alters the facial shape by reducing muscle mass, resulting in a more contoured appearance.
- Teeth Grinding: Aids in managing bruxism, which is involuntary teeth grinding, by relaxing the masseter muscles.
- Jaw Clenching: Reduces jaw muscle tension which can alleviate jaw pain and discomfort.
- Gummy Smile Reduction: Modifies the lip position to reduce the visibility of gums when smiling.
- Upper Lip Lift: Enhances the contour of the upper lip by elevating its position.
- Brow Lift: Raises the eyebrow position to provide a more alert and youthful appearance.
- Excessive Sweating Management: Utilised for hyperhidrosis treatment, it inhibits sweat production in areas such as the armpits.
Benefits of Anti Wrinkle Injectables
There are numerous benefits associated with the use of anti-wrinkle injectables. Some of the key advantages encompass:
- Diminishing Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Anti-wrinkle injections are effective in softening various expression lines that become more prominent with age. This includes, but is not limited to, smile lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. The visible reduction of these lines contributes to a smoother skin texture.
- Rejuvenation of Facial Aesthetics: Through the reduction of wrinkles, anti-wrinkle treatments revitalise the face, leading to a more refreshed and vibrant appearance. This rejuvenation often manifests as a softer and brighter complexion, which can have a positive impact on one’s confidence and self-esteem.
- Prophylactic Benefits: In addition to addressing existing lines and wrinkles, anti-wrinkle injections can also act as a preventative measure. By relaxing the facial muscles, the treatment can hinder the formation or deepening of lines in the future. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are looking to maintain a youthful appearance as they age.
- Customised Treatment Plans: Anti-wrinkle injectables can be tailored to meet the specific needs and desired outcomes of the individual. This means that the treatment can be as subtle or as noticeable as the individual prefers, allowing for a customised approach to facial rejuvenation.
- Minimally Invasive and Convenient: As a non-surgical procedure, anti-wrinkle injectables usually involve minimal downtime and can often be completed within a short time frame. This makes it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or those who are seeking an alternative to more invasive cosmetic procedures.
- Boost in Confidence and Well-being: By improving facial aesthetics and helping individuals achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance, anti-wrinkle injectables can lead to an enhanced sense of confidence and well-being.
- Potential Therapeutic Applications: Beyond cosmetic benefits, anti-wrinkle injections have also been used for various therapeutic purposes, such as treating migraines, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and muscle spasms.
Ideal Patients For Anti Wrinkle Injections
Anti-wrinkle injections are the most popular treatment for non-invasive facial rejuvenation at Centre for Surgery in London. Our practitioners perform many hundreds of treatments across a wide range of patients, both younger and older.
The ideal candidate for anti-wrinkle injections:
- You are a young person looking to prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles
- You are an older person that has noticed the development of deeper lines and wrinkles
- You have a gummy smile
- Noticeable lines around the peri-oral or mouth region when you make certain facial expressions, such as pouting of the lips
- You are not keen on a more invasive surgical treatment for facial rejuvenation.
Anti Wrinkle Injection Techniques
Facial wrinkles gradually form at right angles to the underlying muscle fibres. When the underlying muscle is activated, then the overlying wrinkle becomes apparent. Neurotoxin injections are precisely placed into the facial musculature, which leads to weakening. Neurotoxin is never injected into the facial wrinkle itself.
At Centre for Surgery, we have some of the most qualified and experienced facial injectors. The key to successful neuromodulator injection is based on the following:
- Having the correct constitution of neurotoxin and sterile saline – it must not be too dilute
- The actual injection process must be short and quick
- The location where anti-wrinkle injections are injected
After the injection into the facial muscle, the toxin can spread up to 2.5cm from where the injection was made. Injectors using the same injection method can still result in slightly different outcomes, although these differences are minor and trivial in nature.
How do Anti Wrinkle Injections work?
Anti-wrinkle injections are a neuromodulator which exerts its effects at the nerve end, which prevents the release of a chemical neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine. The nerve is, therefore, unable to exert any effect on the attached muscle. Using a neuromodulator leads to muscle relaxation in the injected facial areas.
Difference between dynamic and static wrinkles
Anti-wrinkle injections are ideal for the reduction or removal of dynamic wrinkles in the areas of active facial animation. After injection, this means that those wrinkles will then become less visible with facial muscle contraction – an example is the crow’s feet area with smiling. Static wrinkles are those wrinkles which are present at rest without active facial muscle movement. Neurotoxins are ineffective for addressing static wrinkles. Dermal fillers or chemical peels, or laser resurfacing may be more appropriate for the treatment of static wrinkles. Even then, neurotoxin would be used first to relax the area, reducing the amount of subsequent filler required for satisfactory correction.
How long do Anti Wrinkle Injections last?
Many patients will notice that injections of Anti-wrinkle injections can last for up to six months or longer. In these cases, however, what has actually occurred is that the neurotoxin has actually worn off. But, the muscle dynamic has been altered, which means the patient no longer uses that particular facial muscle as much as when they did before injections of neuromodulator.
The ideal timing of neuromodulator injections varies but it is generally accepted that the best time to get repeat injections of Anti-wrinkle injections is before the effects of the last injection you have had begin to subside. With facial injection treatment, the objective is to keep the injected muscles in a weakened condition. All our patients are highly recommended to schedule maintenance treatments of anti-wrinkle injections before the upper facial muscles regain their size and/or strength. Fewer wrinkles are because of muscle attenuation or weakening and it is important to maintain this to get the best results. Selected patients who have top-up injections once or twice a year can have great results but the very best results come from wrinkle-relaxing injections three to four times per year.
There are two key factors regarding anti-wrinkle Injections: (1) how many units of neurotoxin will be injected? and (2) Where will the neurotoxin be injected?
Units of Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Anti Wrinkle Injections come packaged in 2 different vial formulations: 50 and 100 units. Your practitioner will dilute your neuromodulator injection to an appropriate concentration. The effectiveness of the neurotoxin injection and the ‘spreadability’ of the injection is determined by the concentration of the neuromodulator solution. A more dilute formulation will require the injection of greater volume, which increases the risk of unintended spread to other muscles, which could lead to unintended paralysis of the wrong muscle. Practitioners at Centre for Surgery make up Anti Wrinkle Injections according to a standardised protocol of 100 units of neurotoxin in 2.5 ml of unpreserved sterile saline. We believe in being fully transparent about the injection process to ensure you get the outcomes you desire. Using this formulation also helps to minimise the number of needle pricks through the skin, making for more precise results with minimum discomfort.
Injection sites for Anti Wrinkle Injections
As explained above, the formation of facial wrinkles is always at right angles or 90 degrees in the direction of the muscle fibre contraction. Our practitioners take great care to ensure that anti-wrinkle Injections are injected into the muscle in the deeper layers and not the wrinkle itself. The treatment objective is to selectively paralyse the facial muscles to achieve muscle relaxation, thus leading to facial rejuvenation.
Anti Wrinkle Injections for frown lines
Neurotoxin can be injected into the procerus and corrugator muscle to reduce frowning.
Wrinkle relaxing injections for forehead wrinkles
Neurotoxin is commonly used for transverse forehead lines, which are dynamic in nature. Older patients may require fillers for static forehead lines. Anti-wrinkle injections can also be used selectively on the outer eyebrow to create a subtle brow lift.
Neurotoxin for crow’s feet
Anti Wrinkle Injections can be injected into the muscle encircling the eye, known as the orbicularis muscle, in its outer aspect to smoothen out the crow’s feet line.
Anti Wrinkle Injections for bunny lines
For those who have had neurotoxin for several years can lead to compensatory activity of the muscles, which scrunch up the nose or bunny lines. Targeted injections of neurotoxin can be used to reduce or eliminate bunny lines.
Neurotoxin for gummy smile
Patients with an excessive gingival show or gummy smile can inject the toxin into the premaxillary area or area in the upper outer lip to reduce the amount of gum showing when smiling.
Anti Wrinkle Injections for bruxism and teeth clenching
A square-looking jaw can look more rounded with the injection of neurotoxin directly into the masseter muscle.
Neurotoxin for droopy mouth corners
Anti Wrinkle Injections are excellent for treating the marionette lines at the corners of the mouth. Injection of this region leads to the elevation of this area, reducing the appearance of the unhappy downturned mouth look.
Neurotoxin for chin dimpling
Overactivity of the mentalis muscle in the chin can lead to dimpling or an unsightly “peau d’orange” appearance. Neuromodulators can be used to smoothen this region.
Anti Wrinkle Injections for neck banding
The formation of prominent platysmal banding increases with advancing age. Neuromodulators can effectively treat neck banding, leading to an impressive rejuvenating effect on the neck area.
Anti Wrinkle Injections Cost
There are a number of a factors which will impact on the final cost of your neurotoxin injection procedure:
- Number of units of required
- Men require more units of Anti Wrinkle Injections
- Advanced injections in the lower third of face and neck
- Complications of Anti Wrinkle Injections from another clinic
Why not call 0207 993 4849 and speak to one of our expert patient coordinators who may be able to give you a rough costing.
Always remember that price should never be the determining factor when it comes to choosing your provider. We feel that safety and quality of service should be your number one priority and instilling in you the confidence that our team will look after you before, during and after your procedure to the best of their ability.
Preparing For Anti Wrinkle Treatment
Two weeks before anti-wrinkle injections:
It is important to minimise bruising by following certain restrictions on dietary intake. 2 weeks before neurotoxin. You should avoid fish oil supplements, seeds, nuts and medicines containing ibuprofen for aspirin and any other substances which are known to increase the risk of prolonged bleeding and subsequent bruising.
On the day of your anti-wrinkle treatment:
- Avoid wearing makeup
- Have a light meal to reduce the risk of feeling light-headed during treatment.
- Drink plenty of water to keep well hydrated
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- You should arrive at least thirty minutes before your treatment time to allow for the application of numbing cream.
- Schedule your next appointment for anti-wrinkle injections before you leave the clinic to avoid being unable to secure an appointment. Our practitioner’s appointment slots often get booked up three months in advance.
Post-procedure care after anti wrinkle injections:
- It is advisable to use a cold pack applied to the area to reduce any bruising for up to 48 hours post procedure.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours after anti-wrinkle injections
- Use only water-based makeup to camouflage any bruising. Normal makeup can be applied the next day onwards.
- Do not attempt to massage the area in any way – this could lead to diffusion of the toxin leading to unintended paralysis of uninvolved facial muscles.
- Face washing is permissible, albeit gently.
- Arnica tablets can be used to minimise bruising.
- Pineapples and pineapple juice has been shown to reduce bruising and swelling.
Recovery After Anti Wrinkle Injections
At Centre for Surgery in London, our practitioners take special care to use techniques that minimise bruising and swelling. The downtime following our treatments are renowned for being very minimal. So much so that you can have anti wrinkle injections treatment during your lunch break with us before returning to work in the afternoon. Slow injections of neurotoxin lead to more potential trauma to underlying tissues which leads to additional bruising and swelling.
Recovery fast facts after anti wrinkle injections
- Minimal bruising and swelling.
- Neurotoxins take up to 2 weeks to exert their full effect. Treatment effects may be noticed as early as three days, but you will have two weeks before seeing the full effect. Any treatment top-ups should only be performed two weeks post-procedure.
- The effects of anti-wrinkle Injections generally subside after four months. For optimal results, neurotoxin should be repeated approximately 3-4 times a year.
- It is normal to experience some mild discomfort from the needle injection points.
Risks and Potential Complications of Anti Wrinkle Treatments
Anti wrinkle injections are recognised to be a low-risk procedure with minimal risk of complications. Your practitioner will fully assess you to ensure suitability for the procedure. During your consultation, the practitioner will outline the risks and potential complications associated with facial injection treatment.
Potential Complications of Anti wrinkle injections Treatment
- Allergy to neurotoxin
- Skin infection
- A frozen facial appearance – Neurotoxins exerts it effects by selective weakening of targeted facial muscles. Injecting neurotoxin in the wrong areas often affects inexperienced injectors creating an undesirable facial appearance
- Minor flu-like symptoms
- Mild headache especially with neuromodulator injected into forehead region
- Droopy eyebrow or double vision from inexpertly placed injection
- Prolonged muscle weakness in patients with neuromuscular conditions
Facial Injection Specialists at Centre for Surgery
At Centre for Surgery in London, our neuromodulator injectors are all highly experienced doctors and have been using neuromodulators such as anti wrinkle injections to treat facial lines and wrinkles for many years. Every patient has unique features that must be taken into account when planning treatment. Every treatment must be customised to the individual patient. This is why at Centre for Surgery, we charge neurotoxin by the exact number of units used. A female patient with a small face and relatively inactive muscles of facial expressions is very different to a male patient with a large face and well-developed muscles of facial expression.
What to Expect
Centre for Surgery are committed to following the latest national guidance and strict medical protocols in the provision of non-surgical injectable treatments. Wrinkle injection treatments are only carried out by trained plastic surgeons for safer outcomes.
You will be looked after by a dedicated patient coordinator to act as your point of contact throughout your journey with us. Once we have a clear idea of your presenting concern, we will book you in to see a plastic surgeon who is best placed to assess and treat you.
What happens at the consultation?
The specialist will take a comprehensive approach to assess you by taking a full history and examination:
- Treatment options based on your facial structure and the possible outcomes that can be achieved
- In-depth discussion of the different non-surgical options and what can be expected with each option, and whether any downtime is to be expected
- Assessing your physical and mental health to make sure that anti-wrinkle injections are right for you
- Answer your questions that you may have about the different options
If it is determined that treatment is appropriate, a written treatment plan will be prepared and presented to you so you can decide on whether to proceed. Some treatments, such as facial injectables, can take place in the same visit, while other treatments, such as laser resurfacing, may need a period of skin preparation which may require up to six weeks before the actual treatment can take place.
Your consultant will ask you to return for a follow-up visit two weeks later for a review which may include a free top-up or ‘tweakment’ if deemed necessary.
Patient journey quick overview:
- Visit us at 106 Crawford Street, Marylebone, for a consultation with a fully trained and qualified plastic surgeon
- At the consultation, decide on the best treatment option for you based on expert advice from your consultant. You can choose to have treatment at the same visit if you prefer.
- Come back in 2 weeks for your follow-up visit for a check-up and repeat treatment or free top-up if appropriate.
How to Find Us
Centre for Surgery is located at 106 Crawford Street in Marylebone. Crawford Street is just off Baker Street.
We are easily accessible by all major bus routes that pass through Baker Street as well as Baker Street underground station.
From the tube station, we are just a 5 minute walk southwards down Baker Street followed by a right turn onto Crawford Street. The clinic is about 200 yards on the left.
There is ample local pay & display parking in the surrounding area and an NCP car park is located further west along Crawford Street. Our local residential parking zone is the City of Westminster.
Address: 106 Crawford Street, Marylebone, London, W1H 2HY
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FAQs
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What Are Lines and Wrinkles?Lines and wrinkles are one of the most visible manifestations of the ageing process and appear as creases or folds on the surface of the skin particularly on the face that receives more sun exposure than other parts of the body. Facial movements involve the contraction of the underlying muscles and these repeated movements in time lead to the development of lines and wrinkles. With the added effect of chronic sun exposure and other environmental factors such as pollution, facial lines and wrinkles become more permanent.
With ageing, the proportion of collagen and elastin in the skin begins to gradually decrease which contributes to the formation of facial lines and wrinkles. Once wrinkles have formed, the best approach is to reduce their extent by using proper sun protection measures such as sunscreen to protect against ultraviolet rays from the sun, avoid smoking, drink plenty of water regularly and maintain a sensible skincare daily schedule. Practitioners at Centre for Surgery are experts in restoring a healthy, youthful and refreshed appearance using highly effective anti ageing treatments.
Lines and wrinkles differ in their appearance:
Facial lines commonly occur against a background of dehydration, chronic sun exposure and repeated muscle movements.
Deeper wrinkles occur in more severe cases of sun exposure and significant collagen and elastin depletion. -
How do I Prevent Lines and Wrinkles?The aging process is an unfortunate fact of life which affects us all. However there are a number of practical measures we can take to slow down the process:
- When in the sun, wear sunscreen of SPF 30 and higher
- Wear appropriate hat which has a wide brim and wear sunglasses
- Wear protective clothing which covers the arms and legs
- Apply high quality skincare products which contain vitamin A and other antiaging ingredients
- Refrain from smoking
- Have maintenance in-clinic skin treatments which promote the production of collagen and elastin
Anti wrinkle injections are ideal as a complementary treatment alongside the above measures to reduce the development of early-onset lines and wrinkles and to treat those lines and wrinkles which have already begun to form. -
What are Anti Wrinkle Injections?Anti Wrinkle injections or wrinkle relaxing injections are neurotoxins which are used to selectively weaken the muscles of facial expression leading to smoothening of dynamic lines and wrinkles.
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Which regions can be addressed with anti-wrinkle injections?Anti-wrinkle injections are versatile and can be employed to treat various areas of the face and body. The most prevalent areas for wrinkle reduction encompass the frown lines located between the eyes (known as the glabella), the forehead, and the lines that materialise around the outer corners of the eyes (commonly referred to as crow’s feet). Additionally, anti-wrinkle injections can be effectively utilised for non-cosmetic purposes, such as alleviating jaw grinding (which can also contribute to slimming the appearance of the jawline) and managing excessive sweating, a condition known as hyperhidrosis.
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What Are Crows Feet and Eye Wrinkles?At Centre for Surgery, we provide the most effective treatments for the reduction of crow's feet and eye wrinkles, including both anti-wrinkle injections and erbium laser skin resurfacing.
Eye wrinkles are also known as crow's feet or laughter lines and are most prominent when we laugh, as this is a dynamic facial movement. With the ageing process, these eye wrinkles appear more obvious even at rest as the dynamic lines more pronounced on muscle movement eventually become static lines and wrinkles.
Lateral canthal lines or eye wrinkles develop in response to a gradual reduction in the proportion of collagen and elastin in the skin as a result of the ageing process. Crow's feet can also be caused by excessive sunlight exposure, pollution and tobacco smoking. The most effective approach to preventing crow's feet and eye wrinkles is to maintain good skin hydration, avoid tobacco smoking, minimise sunlight exposure, and avoid situations that could cause prolonged stress levels.
Anti-wrinkle injections are a highly effective treatment for crow's feet and work by causing relaxation of the underlying muscles that are normally responsible for contraction and causing crow's feet to appear. Wrinkle-relaxing injections consist of a neurotoxin, a protein that results in muscle relaxation. Many areas on the face can be treated with anti-wrinkle infections, including crow's feet. The treatment takes no more than 15-20 minutes, and how the treatment can benefit you will be discussed at your consultation. Results take about a week to appear, and the effects of treatment typically last for three months on average but this depends on many factors.
Fractional erbium laser skin resurfacing is another excellent treatment for crow's feet and eye wrinkles in those with lighter skin types. The laser gently removes the skin's outermost epidermal layer by creating tiny micro columns. The unaffected adjacent skin then facilitates quick healing, leading to collagen and elastin production stimulation. The result is smoother, fresher and healthier, and wrinkle-free skin. The skin continues to improve for up to 6 months after treatment, adding further long-lasting benefits. -
When Is The Best Time to Have Wrinkle Relaxing Injections?Younger patients may derive most benefit from anti wrinkle injections as a way to prevent the onset of facial lines and wrinkles.
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Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections Considered Safe?Anti-wrinkle injections have been utilised by millions of individuals globally for numerous years and have garnered a reputation for being relatively safe, particularly when administered by qualified professionals in a reputable cosmetic clinic such as Centre for Surgery. Complications are extremely rare when the procedure is conducted correctly. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some known side effects, which can include headaches, bruising, or swelling at the injection site. These side effects are typically mild and transient in nature. It is paramount to consult with a healthcare professional prior to undergoing treatment, to discuss any concerns, and to ascertain whether anti-wrinkle injections are an appropriate option for your specific circumstances.
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How Long Do Anti Wrinkle Injections Take to Perform?The multiple tiny injections of neurotoxin usually takes no more than 20 to 30 minutes dependent on the areas being treated. At follow-up visits, the injections are usually much quicker to do and take about 10-15 minutes on average.
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Do Anti-Ageing Injectables Hurt?The cosmetic injectables are injected using very fine needles with very small volumes and so any pain or discomfort experienced should be minimal if any.
As with any injection, the site of needle entry into the skin may be felt but given the size of the needle, this is well tolerated. Your doctor will advise against the use of anti inflammatory medicines as these can interfere with the blood clotting process and lead to more bruising after the procedure. -
What activities should be avoided immediately after the procedure?Post-treatment, it is advisable to refrain from engaging the facial muscles for at least 30 minutes, including actions such as frowning, squinting, and raising the eyebrows. It's also important not to undergo any facial treatments, or to rub or massage the area that has been treated. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid applying makeup to the treated area for a minimum of four hours. Your healthcare professional will provide a comprehensive guide to aftercare instructions during your appointment, to ensure optimal results and minimise any potential side effects.
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Who Will Carry Out My Wrinkle Relaxing Injections?In the UK, facial injectables can be carried out by any aesthetic practitioner as there is a lack of national regulation in this area. This has led to a large increase in the number of unqualified practitioners carrying out the treatment in unregulated locations and without the necessary emergency back up facilities and equipment. It is even possible to have filler injections in places such as gyms, beauty salons and even someone's home.
Facial injectables do carry an element of risk especially dermal filler injections and having your injections in potentially unsafe locations can lead to a risk of harm. At Centre for Surgery, all our facial injectable treatments which include both anti wrinkle injections and dermal fillers are carried out only by fully qualified dermatologists and plastic surgeons in CQC regulated premises. -
How Soon Will I See the Results After Cosmetic Facial Injections?The final results from anti ageing injections do not appear immediately and it is normal for results to become fully apparent at the one week mark. The reaction to the neurotoxin injection differs between patients such as age and gender and previous treatment and some patients may find their results take longer to appear.
Your doctor will want to review you at the centre after 2 weeks to review the outcome and any fine tuning injections can be undertaken at this stage if necessary. -
How can I determine the quantity of units required for the treatment?The number of units required can vary based on several individual factors, such as the treatment area, desired outcome, and personal characteristics. Typically, the initial treatment may necessitate a higher number of units as compared to subsequent sessions. As you continue with regular anti-wrinkle treatments, it may be feasible to diminish the dosage. It’s imperative to consult with a qualified practitioner who can create a personalised treatment plan and determine the appropriate number of units for your specific needs.
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Why is it important not to overdilute the injections?The concentration of the neuromodulator injection is key to achieving optimal outcomes. The market leading brand comes in both 50 unit and 100 unit variants which come in sterile powder form. The doctor needs to add saline to the vial to make up the solution for injection. Some clinics over-dilute the solution which also reduces treatment efficacy. Always ask how many units are used in your treatment.
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Will There Be a Substantial Change in My Appearance?Our doctors and specialists are expert in performing very accurate treatments and your consultant will able to create results which are based on your own preferences for treatment. Whether you would prefer a more subtle enhancement or changes which are more pronounced, our specialists have the right level of experience to help you reach your treatment goals.
Whatever your treatment goals, the results achieved will aim to be as natural as possible in keeping with your overall facial contours. We do not inject in such as a way as to cause the 'frozen' look. Your practitioner will look to preserve your range of facial expressions as much as possible and this is ensured by using the right concentration of injection.
Your practitioner will discuss in depth the proposed treatment at your face to face consultation. -
What Are Forehead Lines and Brow Lines?Dynamic forehead movements include frowning, squinting, raising the eyebrows and contracting the forehead muscles, however with repeated movements over many years, the formation of lines and wrinkles begin to develop.
The formation of horizontal forehead lines is related to a gradual reduction in the levels of collagen and elastin in the skin. With ageing, the rate at which these key constituents of skin are made begins to decrease which leads to a reduction in skin elasticity. Other factors which contribute to the development of horizontal forehead lines include pollution, smoking and chronic sun exposure.
The best prevention strategy for forehead lines is to maintain good skincare habits including wearing sunscreen SPF30 when out in the sun, stopping smoking, keep well hydrated and control stress levels.
Anti wrinkles are a highly effective treatment for horizontal forehead lines and work by causing relaxation of the underlying muscles that are normally responsible for contraction and causing forehead lines to appear. Wrinkle relaxing injections consist of neurotoxin which is a protein and results in muscle relaxation. Many areas in the face can be treated with anti wrinkle infections including forehead lines which most often appear with raising of the eyebrows. The treatment takes no more than 15-20 minutes and how the treatment can benefit you will be discussed at your consultation. Results take about a week to appear and effects of treatment typically last for 3 months on average but this depends on many factors.
Forehead lines and wrinkles that are more prominent of extensive often in combination with drooping of the brow may respond best to a surgical brow lift. A brow lift is a surgical procedure designed to lift sagging brow tissue and tighten the forehead skin. Brow lift surgery is carried out as a day case under TIVA anaesthetic and typically takes about 2 hours to perform. Results can last many years and can be maintained further with good skincare habits. -
How Often Should I Have Anti Wrinkle Injections?It is recommended to have neurotoxin approximately 3-4 times in a year to ensure the facial muscles are adequately weakened to prevent the onset of facial lines and wrinkles.
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Can Anti Wrinkle Injections be Used on Men?Anti Wrinkle Injections are very commonly used on men. Although compared with women, men have more developed facial muscles which may require the injection of toxin for a given facial area.
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Is it safe to undergo anti-wrinkle injectable treatment during pregnancy?The safety of anti-wrinkle injections during pregnancy remains uncertain, and as such, it is not advisable to undergo this treatment if you are pregnant. As the potential risks to an unborn child are not definitively known, it is recommended to err on the side of caution. Our team prioritises your health and safety, and as such, will not administer anti-wrinkle injectables during pregnancy. However, we welcome the opportunity to discuss treatment options and plan for future appointments once it is safe to proceed.
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Do Anti Wrinkle Injections Work for Older Patients?Neurotoxin does work for older patients although it is less effective for static wrinkles which is commonly found in older patients. In these cases, it may be better to make use of dermal fillers, chemical peels or laser resurfacing treatment.
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What Are The Alternative Treatments for Lines and Wrinkles?At Centre for Surgery, we offer the full range of non surgical facial rejuvenation treatments including laser treatments, Morpheus8, chemical peels and microneedling for the effective treatment of lines and wrinkles affecting the face.