Non-surgical facial treatments Cosmetic Dental 4u Client information leaflet BOTOX® is just one of the brand names used for botulinum toxin type A, BOTOX® has over 25 years of clinical data and an excellent safety record. Clients usually see a marked improvement to their appearance that creams, lotions and potions cannot achieve. Treating people with BOTOX® cosmetically can result in higher levels of self-esteem and confidence for the patient. In 2006 a license was given for the use of Botox for some cosmetic treatments. Since then it has been rebranded as Vistabel. In the UK Vistabel is the only product that has been licensed to treat frown lines (glabella area). Other areas of the face can be treated “off license” and has been safely for over 10 years. How it works Facial lines are caused by repeated use of the facial muscles used for expressions such as squinting and frowning. Botulinum toxin type A blocks impulses that cause the facial muscles to contract. It is a line and wrinkle reduction treatment that relaxes the underlying facial muscles allowing fine lines and deeper facial wrinkles to smooth out. This results in a younger, fresher appearance, the action is never permanent, although repeated treatments can help to permanently soften some lines. Treatment is safe, reproducible, and can help reverse the natural effects of ageing and environmental factors associated with our busy day to day lives. However there can be a few short term side effects such as minimal bruising at the injection sites, minor headaches, and slight blurred vision, all of which are very short lived. It is very hard to predict exactly how Botulinum toxin will affect your muscles, you may therefore find results are not exactly as you intended. Benefits of treatment Treatment is quick and easy, you can continue with day to day life immediately. A very fine needle is used so treatment is pain free; most patients experience only a very mild discomfort. Only the desired area is affected, allowing for a normal smile and other facial expressions. Can reduce headaches such as migraines when the areas in the upper part of face are treated Can reduce excessive sweating in the treated areas Risks Occasionally patients can experience a drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow following treatment to the forehead, although this is temporary and will resolve itself. Rarely double or blurred vision can occur and you should seek medical attention. The risks of side effects following treatment are reduced by going to a qualified practitioner. Treatment Lines and wrinkles develop in 3 main areas of the face. All can be treated successfully: Frown reduction (Glabella) Forehead line reduction Crow’s feet smoothing (lateral eye lines) What to expect Your skin will be cleaned to remove any make up and then small amounts of botulinum toxin will be injected in the area to be treated. The treated area should appear smoother and less wrinkled. Results are often visible around 8 days, although it may take between 1-2 weeks to see the full effects. The effects usually last between 3-5 months, although the results can last longer with repeated treatments. Treatment is less effective on those over 65 as the muscles underlying the skin are not as firm After care You will be advised not to massage or rub the area and to treat it gently for 24hrs following treatment. If there is slight swelling, avoid ice pack pressure for 24hrs. It is also advisable to where possible avoid lying flat for several hours afterwards. Try to use the targeted muscle group as much as possible after treatment to gain full uptake of the drug. Avoid exercise for 24hrs and refrain from any facial beauty treatments for 1-2 weeks after. Men There has been an increase in the uptake of treatment with male clients. Men are just as concerned about the way they look as women and should not be ashamed of this. Men often have more pronounced lines due to stronger musculature; therefore treatment can really help soften unwanted aging lines. Treatment not recommended If you are: pregnant, trying to conceive or are breast feeding Suffer a neuromuscular or neurological disorder Have severe allergic reactions (even though Botox allergies are extremely rare) Have had a recent General Anaesthetic within last 4 weeks Caution: History of Bell’s Palsy Dysmorphophobia Bleeding disorders, or patients on anti-coagulants If you are taking Asprin, NSAIDS, Vitamin E, gingko biloba or st Johns Wort, these should be stopped 1 week before treatment as they can increase bruising. Discuss with practitioner before stopping the medication. Botulinum toxin is a prescription only medicine which must be prescribed by a doctor or dentist after a medical assessment. As part of the treatment a free review appointment if required can be arranged a fortnight later to allow for any minor alterations if necessary. The effects of Botulinum toxin injections are temporary. If you are looking for longer lasting solutions you may want to talk to your doctor or surgeon about alternative techniques. Prices Introductory rates (saving 15%) • 1 area £125 • 2 areas £180 • 3 areas £225 Contact information Please preferably email: cosmeticdental4u@yahoo.co.ukif you have any further questions or to arrange an appointment. Or visit: www.cosmeticdental4u.co.uk If you are already a patient at Goodwins dental practice you can contact the practice directly. I work from several locations: Cope opticians, Fairwater green Cope opticians, Cowbridge road Ely Goodwin’s Dental practice, Fairwater, Cwmbran Goodwin’s Dental practice, Porth I also take group bookings, email to discuss an additional discounted rate depending on group size. I am also mobile and can do sessions in the house.