Therapolis | Limassol & Nicosia| Cyprus

Botox used to reduce wrinkles is a sterile and purified version of the Botulinum Toxin A.

When the toxin is injected into the muscle, it works to block the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles, thereby causing them to relax more.

The net result is that the process of wrinkle formation is reduced. A smoothing effect is seen almost immediately and it continues to improve over the next few days.

The full effects of Botox injections can be seen in 5-7 days.

Results may vary on individuals, depending on the severity of wrinkles and the strength of muscles treated.

The results last from three to six months after which most patients gradually return to their former state.

Normally, Botox Injections should be repeated every 3-4 months.

Patients who have had Botox treatments over 12 months may only require further treatments every 6 months.

While Botox has been safely used by millions of patients, it is recommended that pregnant women, or women who are breastfeeding their babies as well as patients suffering from neurologic disease should never use Botox.

Price

per zone                 €140

forehead, between eyes, crows feet

What to expect at your first appointment

If you've never had a Botox treatment this will be an opportunity to learn some of the "BOTOX BASICS."

A. Expectations

It's important to review your expectations and determine if they're realistic. For instance, Botox will do little for nasolabial folds—the lines that develop between the corners of the mouth and your nose.

B. Risks

In general the use of BOTOX poses few risks. BOTOX may cause temporary headaches, bruising or temporary drooping of the eyelid. Rarely, it can cause temporary double vision. Obviously you will need to tell us about any medical condition you have. Certain antibiotics—Levaquin, Cipro or Clindamycin—shorten the therapeutic effect of BOTOX so you may wish to complete your antibiotic treatment before receiving BOTOX injections.

C. Contraindications

BOTOX should not be used if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or are taking certain medications (aminoglycosides antibiotics).

D. How is it given? Is it painful?

Botox is given by fine needle injection. The number of injections will depend on the number of areas you wish to have treated. Most women say that the pain is minimal. We often apply a topical local anesthetic cream and wait 10-15 minutes to allow it to work. A typical treatment takes 10-15 minutes—again, depending on the number of areas you wish to have treated.

E. What can I expect afterwards?

There may be some temporary swelling and occasional bruising. The swelling typically lasts a few hours so you don't want to have this done just before an evening out on the town. After treatment you will see the effects of BOTOX within 1-3 days although the full effect may take 10-14 days. Some doctors ask their clients to frown or squint a lot so that the medication settles in. I generally instruct women to gently massage some of the areas—but how you do this is important. Don't massage the injection sites without specific instructions from me. It's important that you don't lie down or bend over for 4 hours after injection. I generally ask women to not exercise for 4 hours afterwards as well.

F. Things to avoid

Do not lie down or bend over for 4 hours after your treatment. Minimize your exposure to the sun and wear sunblock!

G. The two-week visit

If you're a first time patient you may wish to make a 2 week appointment so that we can evaluate how it worked for you. Obviously, if you're having any problems—bruising or eyelid drooping—you'll call us immediately. The 2-week visit is an opportunity to see how it worked and if you're satisfied. Occasionally, some "touching up" is necessary at the 2 week visit for optimum results.

H. How long does it last?

For most women BOTOX seems to last 3-4 months. The effects wear off gradually and you'll be the best judge of when to come in for your next appointment.

I. How much does it cost?

The cost varies with the number of areas that are treated. A complete price-list is available to you on request.

J. Is there anything else I should know?

Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Advil, and Aleve) for at least one week prior to your planned treatment. This will reduce the possibility of bruising afterwards. Also, avoid Ginkgo and ginseng, Vitamin E, Fish Oil supplements and red wine for at least a few days prior to treatment—again to avoid bruising.