An informative piece explaining the purpose of botox treatment, the physician assessment, the steps of the procedure and the follow-up process in plain language.
Ageing, stress, sun exposure, genetic and environmental factors, smoking, air pollution and menopause all contribute to the free radicals that deepen wrinkles. Ageing is inevitable, but its effects can be reduced or delayed.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It was first used to treat ophthalmic and neurological conditions and later entered safe cosmetic use for softening wrinkles.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its cosmetic use in 2002.
When Is Botox Used?
- Relieving spastic muscle problems
- Treating eye conditions such as strabismus
- Treating migraine
- Reducing facial wrinkles
- Managing excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
- Treating teeth grinding (bruxism)
How Does Botox Work?
Dynamic lines are formed by muscle movement: repeated contraction of the muscles beneath the skin eventually creates permanent lines and wrinkles.
Botox blocks nerve-to-muscle signalling in the injected area, preventing muscle contraction so the skin above stays smooth.
These lines can be corrected early with botox. Once they deepen, botox alone is not enough and additional treatments such as laser, plasma pen, peeling or dermal filler injections may be required.
Who Can Have Botox?
It can be applied to anyone between 18 and 65 who is assessed as suitable by a physician. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
How Is Botox Applied?
Individual planning
Each patient's treatment is planned according to their own muscle structure, skin characteristics and the area to be treated.
Preparation
A topical anaesthetic cream may be applied beforehand if needed.
Injection
Small doses of botox are injected into predetermined points using fine needles.
Duration and effect
Treatment takes about 10-15 minutes. Botox acts only in the injected area and does not enter systemic circulation. The effect begins around 3 days after treatment and reaches its expected level within two weeks.
When Can Patients Return to Normal Activity?
Patients can return to normal activity immediately after the injection.
How Long Does the Effect Last?
Botox treatment provides an average improvement of 3-6 months. As treatments are repeated, this period may extend to 8-10 months.
Do I Have to Continue Once I Start?
No. Even after the effect of botox wears off, wrinkles do not return to their previous intensity for a long time. With continued treatment, results improve progressively: wrinkles soften, new ones are prevented and the skin looks smoother.
Will My Face Lose Its Natural Expression?
If your physician plans appropriate doses, the result is entirely natural.
Are There Any Risks?
When performed by physicians trained in the procedure, the risks are minimal. Mild bruising, redness, headache and rarely flu-like complaints may occur at the treatment site. Applying ice to the treated area significantly reduces these complaints.
Follow-Up Appointment
There is a settling period after treatment. A check-up appointment is planned once this period has passed, and the assessment is repeated if needed. You can reach us through our contact page to arrange one.
