Definition and objectives

Injections are particularly effective for wrinkles around the eyes, nose and lips. Repeated contractions of the facial muscles lead to face and neck fat being pulled down and to the sides. This results in a loss of volume from the lips, chin and nasogenian furrow and to marionette lines (lips). Skin becomes thinner and wrinkles appear. Moreover with age, the quality and quantity of hyaluronic acid decreases which leads to changes in the skin.

Botulinum toxin is injected into the upper face while volumisers and fillers are injected into the lower face.

The aim of treatment using Botox injections in the upper face is not paralysis of the expression muscles but rather to reduce muscle tone (hypotonia) which results in a spectacular reduction in wrinkles whilst preserving facial mobility and mimicry.

Muscle contraction is reduced by Botox injections and volume is restored by volumising products and fillers containing hyaluronic acid or calcium derivatives.

The aim of treatment with injections of volumisers and fillers is to fill in wrinkles and restore volume to the nasogenian furrow, marionette lines, cheeks and lips. Volumisers and fillers are natural compounds, vital for the body, and guarantee hydration and elasticity of the tissues.

Prior to surgery

During the consultation, the practitioner checks for the absence of any contraindications to the use of these products in the patient.

The operation

Injection is carried out in a chair following points drawn by the practitioner on the patient’s face. It does not require any anaesthesia and lasts 5 minutes.

For people sensitive to pinpricks, some products contain an anaesthetic and it is also possible to apply an anaesthetic cream to make the session painless. Local anaesthesia can also be used.

Only resorbable products are injected into the face. There are in fact real disadvantages to using so-called « permanent » products. As a treated wrinkle will systematically be close to another wrinkle which appears at the same site a few months later, injection of these wrinkles with products has to be carried out regularly, once or twice a year. Moreover, if these product trigger an allergic reaction, this is permanent and consequently very difficult to treat.

After the operation

Some redness or mild haematoma is sometimes observed but is very quickly re-absorbed.

A normal social life can be resumed immediately. A check-up visit is recommended 15 to 21 days after surgery.

Result

The result becomes apparent between the 3rd and 30th day. For lasting results, sessions need to be repeated every 6 months.

The effect of Botox lasts 6 months and the effect of volumisers and fillers containing hyaluronic acid (Juverderm, Glytone, Restylane, Perlane, …) or calcium derivatives ( Radiesse..) lasts 8 to 16 months.

It should be pointed out that while deep wrinkles disappear with Botox, surface wrinkles may persist and can only be treated with associated treatment such as peeling or laser treatment.

To maintain the effect produced by these injections, treatment sessions are needed with a beautician to moisturize the skin.