Botox and Restylane

Botox
Botox is the brand name of the purified form of a toxin derived from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. It was originally used in .....

Botox and Restylane are both popular cosmetic treatments which tackle the effects of ageing. Some clinics are now offering the two treatments as a combined procedure. This offers patients a non-surgical alternative to having a facelift. Both Botox and Restylane have been used for many years and have received FDA approval for being both safe and effective.

Botox (Botulism toxin Type A) has a mild paralyzing effect on a localised area around the injection site. It prevents the transmission of brain impulses from the nerves to the muscles, which stops the muscles from contracting. As the muscles remain relaxed, the skin appears smoother and most wrinkles will no longer be visible. However, Botox is less effective on very deep wrinkles and additional treatments are sometimes needed.

Finding A Good Botox Doctor
Botox (Botulism toxin type A) is a relatively straightforward and safe procedure, but is still imperative .....

For this reason, Restylane is an excellent addition to Botox treatment. Restylane contains hydraulic acid and is a biodegradable implant which plumps up the appearance of the skin. This makes it suitable for treating deep creases such as smile lines. It can also be used to diminish the appearance of scars, such as those left by severe acne. Some people also use Restylane to add fullness to their lips and enhance the more youthful look that treating their lines and wrinkles has given them.

As is the case with a straightforward Botox procedure, patients who have undergone this combined procedure can resume their normal every day activities immediately. The site around the injection may be sore and slightly swollen for several hours and it is normal for slight bruising to develop. Severe side effects are rare. Around 1 percent of patients develop ‘drooping’ if the dose of Botox is too high, which is typically the drooping of the eye lid or uncontrollable drooling from the side of the mouth, depending where the injection was administered. People who have a history of cold sores may experience a repeat occurrence after receiving a Restylane injection, although taking antiviral medication can reduce this risk.

When performed as a single procedure, the effects of Botox generally last between 3 and 6 months. If treatment is combined with the use of Restylane, studies have shown that the results tend to last longer. The results of Restylane, when used alone, typically last 6 months when used to enhance the lip line or make the lips appear fuller, or 12 months in other areas of the face. To maintain the beneficial effects of this ‘non surgical facelift’ the patient will need to return to the clinic around every 4 to 12 months for repeat injections.

If you think that you could benefit from Botox and Restylane treatment your first step should be to book a consultation. A qualified medical practitioner will discuss your expectations and what treatment can do for you. They should also fully explain the potential risks involved with treatment and answer any queries you may have.