Anti-wrinkle treatment is an umbrella term for treatments intended to soften selected facial lines and wrinkles. Where a prescription-only medicine is being considered, treatment requires an appropriate consultation, assessment and prescribing decision before it can be provided. At Sands End, treatment is planned around your facial anatomy and natural movement rather than using the same approach for every patient.
Certain anti-wrinkle treatments work by temporarily reducing the activity of selected facial muscles responsible for particular expression lines. The aim is not necessarily to stop all movement, but to soften selected areas while preserving an appropriate degree of natural expression. Your clinician will explain how the proposed treatment works as part of your consultation.
That is the intention of our treatment philosophy. We don’t believe every line needs treating or that facial movement should disappear. Your plan is based on your individual anatomy, expression and goals, with the aim of creating a subtle result that remains in keeping with your face. Results can never be guaranteed, and your clinician will discuss what is realistically achievable before treatment.
Anti-wrinkle treatment does not generally produce its full effect immediately. Changes develop gradually following treatment, and the timing varies between individuals and according to the treatment provided. Your clinician will explain when you can expect changes and when any review should take place.
Results are temporary and vary from person to person. Factors such as the treatment area, facial muscle activity, individual response and previous treatment can all influence duration. If you would like to maintain the effect, your clinician can advise when reassessment may be appropriate rather than treating to an automatic schedule.
Treatment involves the use of a fine needle, so some brief discomfort may occur. Individual sensitivity varies. Your clinician will explain what to expect and take appropriate steps to make your appointment as comfortable as possible.
Many people are able to return to their usual activities soon after treatment, but temporary redness, swelling, tenderness or bruising can occur around the treated sites. Your clinician will provide aftercare instructions specific to your treatment and advise if there are activities you should temporarily avoid.
Possible effects can include temporary redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness at treatment sites, headache, asymmetry or unwanted effects on nearby muscles. Other complications are possible, and the risks vary according to the area being treated and your individual circumstances. We’ll discuss the relevant risks with you before treatment so that you can make an informed decision.
No. Treatment isn’t appropriate for every person or every concern. Your clinician will review your medical history, medications, previous treatment and other relevant factors before deciding whether treatment can be safely and appropriately provided. If treatment isn’t suitable, we’ll explain why and, where relevant, discuss other options.
Anti-wrinkle treatment may be used to reduce the activity of selected muscles associated with expression lines.
Dermal fillers use materials for different purposes, such as restoring or enhancing volume, contour or structural support in selected areas.
One is not a substitute for the other in every situation. Your clinician will assess what is contributing to your concern before recommending an approach.