Oliver Smith Clinic Line & wrinkle

Line & Wrinkle

BOTOX

Botulinum toxin A - known as Botox but most recently approved for cosmetic use under a new name - Vistabel, is a drug administered in several tiny injections, directly into the muscles that cause wrinkles. Most commonly used for crows feet, the forehead, and the lines between your eyebrows, this drug allows selective paralysis of the muscles. Botox has also been approved for the treatment of excessive underarm sweating.

HISTORY

Manufactured by Allergan Inc (USA), Botulinum toxin A has been approved for therapeutic and cosmetic use. Researchers discovered its use of muscle paralysis during the 1950's and began by injecting tiny amounts to treat 'crossed eyes' and excessive blinking. It wasn't until April, 2002 that the FDA approved Botox for cosmetic use. Since then, Botox is the most common cosmetic procedure, in the US alone there have been over 4.6 million procedures carried out. Figures for the UK are unknown at present.

SIDE EFFECTS

Following treatment, there may be some redness, swelling and slight bruising, but this usually subsides within 1-2 days. Reported adverse side effects are headaches, focal facial paralysis, muscle weakness, dysphasia, flu-like symptoms, and allergic reactions. Your practitioner will talk these through with you on your consultation. There is no recovery period, and the results are usually noticeable within a week, peaking on week 2 and lasting up to 3-4 months