Over one million people have enjoyed the cosmetic benefits of anti-wrinkle injections (wrinkle relaxers). A relatively safe, youth-enhancing treatment, anti-wrinkle injections are made of a hospital-grade, sterile protein that, once injected under the skin, prevent muscles from contracting. Along with cosmetic uses, this protein has been used successfully for decades in a variety of medical issues, such as muscle spasticity, bladder problems, correcting eye alignment, migraines and TMJ problems (jaw clenching).
To ensure your safety though, it is essential that you choose a medically trained, experienced practitioner and receive your treatment in a sterile environment. This is why choosing a medically trained dentist in a dental clinic is such a good option for your injections.
How do I choose a good practitioner?
Make sure your practitioner is an experienced and medically trained professional. You can use the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to check that your practitioner is registered to practice in Australia.
What is the difference between an anti-wrinkle treatment and dermal filler?
An anti-wrinkle treatment will relax the muscle and minimise movement. Dermal fillers, however, contain hyaluronic acid, a natural, gel-like substance that fills any lines or indentations. Often, patients choose to have a combination of both substances to achieve their desired outcome. For example, an anti-wrinkle treatment can be injected to relax the muscles; then, if the area is lined, dermal filler may be injected to smooth out the skin. Sometimes, volumising filler is also used. Similar to dermal filler, volumising filler does more than just fill a line; it ads shape and contour to areas of the face, such as the cheekbones or brow.
How long will my treatment take?
You’ll be in and out of your appointment in less than 30 minutes. However, if you are having other injectable procedures done at the same time, it may take the full 30 minutes. Your actual injections will only take a few minutes, but more time will be required to discuss your issues and desired outcome with your practitioner.
Does it hurt?
Anti-wrinkle injections are very quick, so the pain is minimal and fleeting. However, some patients choose to arrive a good 15 minutes before the procedure to have the area either iced which should significantly numb the pain.
How long does the treatment last?
Anti-wrinkle injections typically last between 3 to 5 months. Treatment time varies among individuals, but generally speaking, we recommend further treatment at around four months from your last treatment.
I am pregnant; can I still have the injections?
No. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding, you cannot have anti-wrinkle injections.
When will I see the result?
You’ll start to see a result from your anti-wrinkle injections 2 to 3 days after the treatment. The maximum effect will take anywhere between 7 to 10 days.
Are there any side-effects?
Side-effects with anti-wrinkle injections are rare. If they do occur, they are usually temporary and occur around the injection area. These rare side-effects may include headache, face pain, redness, bruising, local swelling, nausea, drooping of the eyelids, numbness or feeling of pins and needles.
How much does it cost?
The cost of your treatment will be discussed at your initial consultation, and will depend on the amount of product administered.
Will I look frozen?
You will only look ‘frozen’ if too much anti-wrinkle treatment is injected. This is another reason why you should choose a skilled practitioner. At Oxford Street Dental, we prefer to only use an adequate amount of wrinkle relaxer, then have top-up treatments if and when required. This way, you will look fresh, not frozen.