What is Botox®?

Botox® is derived from the protein Botulinum toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The protein blocks the release of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter that conveys messages from the nerves to the muscles to make them contract and move. Once communication has been stopped, the muscles relax.

When Botox® is injected into a certain muscle, it temporarily paralyses the muscle that causes the wrinkle, resulting in a smoother more relaxed look. Botox® is used to improve the appearance of worry lines, frown lines, crow's feet, laugh lines and any other lines that occur due to facial muscles contracting.

The Botox® Procedure

Once you have found the right doctor, phone and arrange a consult with the doctor.

During the initial consultation the doctor will answer all your questions about the treatment, discuss your expectations, do a health screening for potential factors that will cause adverse effects and establish the amount of Botox® that will be needed for the required areas. Once both you and the doctor is satisfied with the examination, the Botox® can be administered straightaway.

The whole procedure lasts about 15-30 minutes. The doctor starts by taking photos of the areas so that you can compare it with the results.

No anesthesia is required, usually anaesthetic gel and an ice-pack are used to numb the area. The doctor will ask you to move certain facial muscles around to determine exactly where the injections should be administered. The protein is injected into the muscle using a fine needle to minimize discomfort and ensure accuracy.

After the treatment is done, you may carry on with your daily activities as usual.

You will be given a post treatment form that will advice you on the things you should do and what you should avoid to maximize the effects of your treatment.