Common Myths About Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Myth Nr 1

If you have anti-wrinkle injections, you will no longer be able to form expressions like frowning or smiling. Is this true?
In our experience, this is normally an indication of having used a non-licensed, in-experienced aesthetic practitioner. Here at the Élan Aesthetic clinic, it is certainly our aim to influence the nerves and not the muscles. This will mean you should still have use of your facial expressions but might not move your facial muscles as much. You will definitely not look ‘frozen’ and the goal is always to deliver rejuvenated natural skin.

“As a trained injector, I know how much and where exactly to put the anti-wrinkle injection. My conservative approach after extensive consultation will allow you to keep your facial expressions but still see a great result.” Dr Jaco van der Merwe

On a side note, if you or perhaps a friend experience a non-desired effect it is important to remember that the effect of anti-wrinkle injections is short-lived, lasting around 4 months.

Myth Nr 2

Anti-wrinkle injections are only for people with mature skin. Whilst it is true that anti-wrinkle injections are mostly used to address wrinkles and expression lines, there is a lot more to the story. Anti-wrinkle injections can also be used to prevent the appearance of wrinkles from developing in the first place. During your aesthetic consultation, we will look at your facial expressions and discuss which areas would benefit from a preventative approach. Preventative use of Botox can also help to train muscles to not make certain expressions, lessening the number of fine lines and wrinkles that can appear due to these repetitive movements.

Myth Nr 3

Anti-wrinkle injections are more effective on women. This one can easily be dispelled.
Men and women both age and both can benefit from the results of anti-wrinkle injections. Due to men generally having stronger facial muscles, a higher dosage anti-wrinkle injection is required for optimal results.

Myth Nr 4

Anti-wrinkle injections are not safe. Botulinum Toxin has been used for cosmetic purposes for over 20 years and is considered safe.

In certain circumstances, Botox injections are not recommended, including if:

• you have a skin infection

• you're unwell in any way

• you have a neuromuscular condition like myasthenia gravis

• you're taking certain medicines

• you're pregnant or breastfeeding

The risks of Botox injections are small if it's done correctly by a suitably qualified practitioner.

After treatment you may have:

• a headache and flu-like symptoms for the first 24 hours

• bruising, swelling, and redness where the needles went in the skin

• a frozen look – you might not be able to move the muscles in your face if too much Botox is injected

• temporary weakness and droopiness in your face – for example, your eyelids or eyebrows may droop if the Botox moves into these areas

Very rarely, serious problems such as blurred or double vision can happen if the area around the eyes is treated, or breathing difficulties if the neck area is injected. This once again highlights the importance of working with a trained professional. Dr. Jaco van der Merwe is a dental surgeon with over 25 years of experience. This means you are in the safe hands of an expert in facial anatomy (not just teeth and gums).

Myth Nr 5

Botox is only for wrinkles. Botox is actually used for many other cosmetic uses, for example softening the jawline, raising the corners of the mouth, treating dimpling of the chin, and lifting eyebrows. Botox has also been used to treat migraines by reducing muscle tension and decreasing the strain put on the nervous system. Another use worth mentioning is treating excessive sweating ((hyperhidrosis)), by injections being done in armpits or forehead.

Myth Nr 6

When you stop anti-wrinkle treatment your wrinkles will appear worse. The effect of anti-wrinkle injections usually lasts about 4-6 months. Once the Botox has left your system, your wrinkles and lines will return to their previous state. It is important to remember that just as it takes a while for the full effect of treatment to show, your pre-treatment appearance will also return gradually. Optimal frequency based on your skin will be discussed during your aesthetic consultation.

Myth Nr 7

You will see the effects of your anti-wrinkle treatment instantly. This myth is not true although you may see some results within approximately 3-5 days. Most people will notice results after 7-10 days. Anti-wrinkle injections help to relax or inhibit the movement of facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. In some cases, it may take one or two treatment cycles before you see the exact desired results.

Myth Nr 8

Anti-wrinkle injections have to be administered independently of any other aesthetic treatment. Because Botox and fillers are different substances designed for different uses, they can sometimes be combined in one treatment. Dermal fillers can address what Botox can’t!! Dermal fillers are injectables often made of hyaluronic acid that plumps the skin to fill in lines and smooth out creases. Filler injections are used to treat nasolabial folds, increase lip fullness, and restore volume to the cheeks. Fillers can last from six to 18 months, depending on the area of application.
According to a scholarly review in the Dermatologic Therapy journal, the combined use of BOTOX® and dermal fillers will increase tissue-dwelling time for injectables. Without BOTOX®, fillers don’t last as long because the body absorbs the substance over time. The more active and animated the face, the sooner fillers disappear. BOTOX® reduces muscle movement so fillers are less likely to break down as quickly. Combined treatment addresses multiple facial features at once and offers a more complete, longer-lasting facial lift.

We look forward to welcoming you to your first aesthetic consultation where we will discuss all your concerns and expectations. We also offer a complimentary post-treatment consultation. This consultation is normally scheduled within 2 weeks of the treatment. During your post-treatment consultation the doctor can check that you are happy with the results and that the treatment has worked as you expected. If necessary, a free top-up treatment can also be given at this follow up appointment.