As people age, they tend to develop facial wrinkles. Some of these wrinkles are relatively minor and are known by such amusing names as "crow's-feet" and "laugh-lines." But some lines may become major crevices with age such as the "nasolabial folds" that run from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth. This is one of the first signs of aging. A great deal of research is being done to develop ways to treat facial wrinkles by either preventing them in the first place or by filling them in with some sort of biologic or synthetic materials.

Botulinum ToxinA (BTx-A)
Botox or Dysport is a safe and effective way of temporarily weakening the muscles that cause wrinkling of the skin. It has the effects of taking years of age and strain from your face.This treatment is simple,quick and safe. You can resume your normal activities immediately after an injection. Many people have their treatments in their lunch-time, for example, and return to work straight afterwards.

How does it work?
After botulinum toxin injections, it will temporarily weaken the muscles that cause wrinkling of the skin and your skin around the treated area will look smooth and less wrinkled; but do not worry, the rest of your face will not be affected. Botulinum toxin allows the untreated areas of your face to move as normal and you will still be able to laugh, smile and frown, but with less wrinkling of the skin in the areas treated. Botulinum toxin can be used to treat all wrinkles which are the result of normal facial movement. It is not suitable for permanent wrinkles caused by excessive exposure to the sun. Botulinum toxin does not remove wrinkles.

What areas can be treated?
The upper third of the face is where the best treatment results are obtained, commonly for reduction in the appearance of crow's feet around the eyes, and frown lines and wrinkles on the forehead and between the eyebrows. Botulinum toxin can also be used to reposition or lift the eyebrows by a few millimetres. This is sometimes called a "chemical brow lift". It can lessen so-called "bunny lines" (lines along the top of the nose caused when some people smile.) A dimply chin caused by the underlying muscle that occurs in some people can also be softened as can "necklace lines" or horizontal lines around the neck. "Platysmal bands" - bands of muscle that stand out from the neck and make the neck look stringy in appearance can also be softened with botulinum toxin.

Recovery time
The whole treatment should usually take no longer than 10 - 15 minutes and you can normally drive immediately and go about your usual activities.