Anti-Wrinkle Injections

What are ‘Neuromodulators’?

Neuromodulators in medical aesthetics are wrinkle relaxing injections of botulinum toxin. Botulinum Toxin is a neurotoxin that was accidentally discovered by ophthalmologists therapeutically treating squints and spasms in the eye. During this discovery it was noted that the side effect of treating these conditions was that the appearance of lines around the eyes would decrease. Produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, it is used aesthetically today for its muscle relaxing properties through the blocking of the release of acetylcholine.

Botox® is the brand name for Allergan’s Botulinum Toxin, however other anti-wrinkle injections such as Dysport® and Xeomin® are available.

How do Neuromodulators work?

Neuromodulators work by temporarily blocking nerve signals that allow for the contraction of muscles. Aesthetically these relaxed muscles lead to the reduction in appearance of fine lines and wrinkles leading to a refreshed and youthful look. Used both for rejuvenation and prevention, it has a place for both younger and mature patients.

What Neuromodulators does Alpha Aesthetics use?

Alpha Aesthetics uses Botox®, Dysport® and Xeomin®. The choice between injectables is subjective based on patient needs. Dysport® is indicated to treat glabellar lines, those angry frown lines between your eyebrows, whilst Botox® is indicated to treat many types of wrinkles from forehead lines to crows feet so is more commonly the ‘go to’ injectible. Botox® is considered more potent in its makeup, however this is not indicative of it being better. Xeomin® on the other hand, has a different make up to Botox® in that it doesn’t contain any additive proteins. Some people can develop a resistance to Botox® and it is believed to be a development of antibodies to these protective proteins present in Botox®. By opting for Xeomin®, patients who have a previous resistance to Botox® may benefit from this alternative.

How long do Anti-Wrinkle Injections last?

For most areas, and in particular the face, the effect of the neuromodulators usually lasts three to four months. Some patients experience longer lasting effects of up to six months while others can be less than three months. We recommend taking zinc supplements for two weeks prior to your neuromodulator appointment as this has in several cases shown to prolong the effects of the neuromodulator.

Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections reversible?

Unlike dermal fillers, neuromodulators are not reversible. It will however eventually be metabolised and cleared from the body over time. This is an important consideration to take into account when choosing your anti-wrinkle injectable practitioner, as experience and knowledge can be the difference between looking your best and worst self. It is advisable to start with lower doses as one can always add units after the initial treatment if the does is too low.

Who is best suited for Aesthetic Neuromodulators?

Prevention and rejuvenation. These two words best describe how neuromodulators are prescribed at Alpha Aesthetics and who it is best suited for. Candidates for neuromodulators are determined less on age and more on desired outcome. Patients in their 20’s and 30’s benefit from muscle relaxing injections to combat early signs of wrinkle formation where prevention from deep etched lines is the goal. Patients in their 40’s, 50’s and older seek rejuvenation where neuromodulators provides a softening of fine lines and a more refreshed look. Whilst neuromodulators won’t eradicate deeper lines, it does relax them for a youthful, relaxed appearance.

Is there any downtime after getting Neuromodulator injections?

Generally there is little to no downtime after receiving neuromodulator injections. Whilst some minor bruising and swelling can occur, this doesn’t last long. It is advised to keep your head above your heart for the first 6 hours after treatment as well as to take care not to press or rub the face where the injectables have been placed. The reasoning here is so that the product remains where it is intended and does not spread or adversely affect any other areas of the face and produce undesired effects. We also recommend not performing any high intensity exercise, using hot tubs or saunas for 24 hours or after treatment.

How long does it take to see the effects of a Neuromodulator treatment?

Generally we see neuromodulators taking effect anywhere from 5 days up until 2 weeks after your appointment. We recommend waiting the full two weeks before retuning to us if you feel your dose was too low or if there are any corrections you feel are needed.

Do Neuromodulators have negative side effects?

As with many medical treatments, unintended side effects and potential risks always need to be considered. Whilst common side effects of neuromodulator injections include swelling and bruising at the site of injection, allergic reactions are more rare. It is always advised to have neuromodulator injections performed in a medical practice by an experienced and qualified practitioner where any unintended side effects can be managed quickly, safely and effectively.

When administered by an experienced injector, neuromodulator injections are generally considered safe.