Wrinkle Reducing Injections

Injections are used to relax the facial muscles that are involved in the production of facial expressions. It does this by temporarily blocking the nerves that control these muscles, which results in a softening of the lines and wrinkles these expressions produce. Experience is needed to ensure only the muscles which produce the wrinkles are treated leaving untreated muscles to contract normally ensuring normal facial expressions can occur.

The effects of the injections last about 3 to 4 months. However over time muscles can become relaxed with repeated treatments. As a result their contractions are reduced, which results in a more enduring youthful effect.

In the 1950s researchers began experimenting with wrinkle reducing injections. The cosmetic effects were first documented in 1989 and by 2007, it was the most common cosmetic operation in the United States with 4.6 million procedures carried out, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These injections are also used in the treament of medical conditions including hyperhidrosis, spasms, migraines and dystonias. It has been used safely worldwide since these applications have been discovered.

Very small quantites are injected into several locations on the face. This procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes. A local anesthetic is not required as clients experience very little pain during the procedure. There is absolutely no down time and most people are able carry on returning to work straight afterwards.

Side effects, which are generally minor and temporary, are fully reversible and usually only last for a few days or few weeks. Redness and bruising can occur after treatment but is actually a side effect not of the injections used but rather the mode of administration. The clinician can prevent bruising by applying pressure to the injection site. If it still occurs it will only last around 7–10 days and can be is easily covered up with makeup.