What is the Anti-Wrinkle Injection?

It contains botulinum toxin which is derived from a bacterium, Clostridium botulinum. 

How does it work?

The toxin blocks the nerve endings in muscles so that the muscles are unable to contract.

What is it used for?

As well as cosmetic use, it is also utilised for cases of muscle spasm. Cosmetically it is used to paralyze small facial muscles and by doing so reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It will not remove facial lines that are present when your muscles are relaxed.

How long has it been in use?

For cosmetic treatments, it was first described in a cosmetic dermatology journal in 1990.

What are the side effects?

Side effects vary depending on the site. Minor pain at the time of injection may be experienced. Redness and mild bruising may also occur. If the toxin leaks into adjacent muscles then these may be weakened or paralyzed.

All side effects are fully reversible.

How is it administered?

A small amount of the toxin is injected with a very small needle into the muscles that you want treating. If you are very sensitive to pain then an ice pack will be held over the area before and after treatment.

Can I go back to work afterwards?

Yes. Very few people experience redness/bruising but there may be a pinprick mark visible on close inspection.

What do I have to avoid after the treatment?

It is recommended that you remain in an upright position for 4 hours after treatment i.e. do not lie down. Do not rub the area as this may cause the drug to spread to other areas.

Does it work right away?

NO. Typically it takes 3-7 days for the effect to start. If after 2 weeks the full effect has not taken place then you may need a small top up. This is especially true in men as they have a greater muscle mass.

Is the effect permanent?

NO. On average the effect will last around 6 months. In some people though, the effect lasts as little as 3 months and in others it lasts for a year.

The drug comes from the same bacterium that causes botulism. Am I at risk of getting this?

The typical dose that you will be given for each treatment area is 20-30 units. The maximum recommended dose to be used in one session is 300-400 units. The maximum safe dose is 7,500-10,000 units.

When can the drug not be used?

If you have one of the following you may not use this treatment:

1. Muscle disorders (e.g. myasthenia gravis)
2. Allergy to one of the ingredients (contains human albumin)
3. Pre-existing infection at the injection site
4. Pregnancy or breast feeding
5. Use of certain antibiotics within 3 days prior to the treatment
6. Use of muscle relaxants
7. Bleeding disorders

How much will the treatment cost?

This depends on the number of units that are used for your treatment. Typically each separate area needs 20-30 units at a cost of £250.