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Botox and Restylane

By: Sally Aquire - Updated: 27 Oct 2012 | comments*Discuss
 
Botox And Restylane

Botox injections have become much more popular in recent years. Botox can be used to treat migraines excessive sweating and damage to the central nervous system, but it's most commonly used for more superficial reasons - getting rid of wrinkles and frown lines, particularly in the forehead area. Celebrities like Kylie and Madonna are thought to use Botox to maintain their youthful appearances. It’s currently the most common cosmetic procedure in the USA, and it's quickly catching on in the UK too.

How long does it last?
The effects of the injections can last from six weeks to six months, but most people notice that the effects start to wear off between three and six months later. The more injections you have, the longer the effects last, as the muscles begin to thin.

How much does it costs?
Botox injections in the UK cost around £200 for one session.

What are the risks?
Essentially, Botox is a naturally occurring poison, so there are always going to be possible side effects. In large doses, it is toxic, but only a small amount is used in cosmetic procedures, so side effects should be fairly minimal. In small amounts, it temporarily paralyses the facial muscles that control frowning and raising your eyebrows. This smoothes the lines when the muscles are relaxed.

Some people may suffer from a severe reaction to the treatment, whilst others won't experience any adverse reactions at all. It's difficult to predict the side effects until they actually happen.

You may find that the skin that has been punctured bruises shortly after the injection, but this has more to do with the person carrying out the procedure, rather than the Botox itself. Bruises mostly fade within ten days. Headaches are another common side effect for the first few days after treatment. Other common complaints include drooping eyelids, wonky smiles and difficulty in closing one or both eyes. Most of the time, this is related to the amount of Botox that has been injected, and will usually correct itself within six weeks.

Botox can be pretty addictive once you've had it done. Many women (and men!) are so thrilled with the effect it has on smoothing out their fine lines and wrinkles, they keep returning for further injections each time it wears off. Over time, this leads to the "startled egg" expression, in which the facial muscles look as though they have been completely frozen. This has reputedly affected more than a few actors and actresses, who suddenly find that their ability to frown, raise their eyebrows or even smile is dramatically reduced. To reduce the risks, make sure that your injections are carried out by a trained doctor or nurse.

What is Restylane?
Restylane is a much safer way to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. Like Botox, there are injections involved, but Restylane is not toxic, even in small doses. It contains hyaluronic acid, which is produced naturally in your body. After the age of around twenty-five, your body starts to produce less of this, which is when fine lines and wrinkles start to emerge. Restylane injections maintain your body's production of hyaluronic acid, which reduces the ageing signs.

How long does it last?
The effects of the injections can last up to a year.

How much does it cost?
A single session of Restylane in the UK usually costs around £200, but can rise to £400 depending on the level of treatment that you're looking for.

What are the risks?
Restylane is a fairly safe cosmetic procedure. As hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in your body, the chances of having a reaction to it are minimal. The injections can be painful, even though the needle used is extremely thin. Because of this, many clinics will offer a dental block to numb the area beforehand. You might also find that the injected area is red and sore afterwards. If the filler is badly applied, your face can look lumpy, so make sure that your injections are carried out by a registered doctor or nurse before you commit.

If you're considering having Botox or Restylane injections, it's important to seek out a trained professional to carry out the procedure. If you don't, you're likely to experience many of the unpleasant side effects, some of which will require an additional visit to another professional to correct them. Your health is quite literally in their hands, so do your homework beforehand to make sure that the person responsible carrying out your injections is legitimate and experienced.

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Share Your Story, Join the Discussion or Seek Advice..
I wouldnt consider it if I were you; I had restylane in August and became poorly 3 hours after and still not right 11 weeks later - it affected my central nervous system and I had severe headaches day and night for almost 10 weeks and numbness in my arms and legs.I have a sensitive system and lots of allergies and it didnt suit me at all.
julie - 27-Oct-12 @ 11:28 PM
Hi was thinking of restylane done, I am 40 year old woman with m.s {multiple sclerosis}.how safe wood this be for me?
lou - 28-Sep-11 @ 1:02 AM
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