Cosmetic Services

Common Names for Cosmetic Services

Cosmetic services are often referred to as plastic surgery or aesthetic procedures. While both terms are used interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings. Plastic surgery is a specialised field of medicine that focuses on reconstructing or repairing physical defects or deformities caused by injury, illness, or congenital disabilities. On the other hand, aesthetic procedures are primarily performed to improve one's appearance and do not necessarily correct functional problems.

Who is Suitable for Cosmetic Services?

Anyone wanting to enhance their appearance or address physical concerns can consider cosmetic services. However, candidates should be physically healthy and have realistic expectations of the outcomes. It is also important to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced cosmetic practitioner to discuss the procedure's risks, benefits, and possible complications.

The Benefits of Cosmetic Services

Cosmetic services offer many benefits, including:

• Improved self-esteem and confidence: Enhancing one's appearance can boost self-confidence, which can positively impact their personal and professional life.
• Youthful appearance: Cosmetic procedures can help turn back the clock, restoring a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
• Enhanced physical health: Certain cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction or breast reduction, can improve physical health and alleviate discomfort caused by excess fat or tissue.
• Psychological benefits: Cosmetic services have been shown to have psychological benefits, including reducing anxiety and depression.
• Long-lasting results: Many cosmetic procedures offer long-lasting or permanent results, allowing individuals to enjoy their new appearance for years.

What are the Types of Cosmetic Services?

Here are some of the most common types of cosmetic services available:

• Botox and dermal fillers: Botox and dermal fillers are non-surgical procedures that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of ageing.
• Chemical peels: Chemical peels are a non-invasive way to improve skin texture and appearance by removing the top layer of dead skin cells.
• Laser skin resurfacing: Laser skin resurfacing uses a laser to remove the top layer of skin, promoting collagen production and improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.
• Hair restoration: Hair restoration procedures, such as hair transplants, can help individuals regrow hair in areas where it has been lost.

Cosmetic Services Offered

Who is Suitable for Anti-wrinkle Injections? 

Anyone who desires to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines on the face can consider an antiwrinkle injection. However, candidates should be physically healthy and have realistic expectations of the outcomes. 

Botulinum toxin is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain neuromuscular disorders, or those allergic to botulinum toxin. 

How Do Antiwrinkle Injections Work?

Antiwrinkle injections work by relaxing the muscles of facial expression, decreasing movement and therefore wrinkling of the overlying skin.

Treatment is quick, and results last between 3-6 months, depending on the individual and previous antiwrinkle treatment history.

What is Botolinum Toxin?

Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small doses, botulinum toxin can block nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, which can lead to a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. 

Who is Suitable for Botolinum Toxin?

Anyone who desires to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines on the face can consider Botox. However, candidates should be physically healthy and have realistic expectations of the outcomes.

Botox is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain neuromuscular disorders, or those allergic to botulinum toxin.

What are the Benefits of Botox?

Botox offers many benefits, including:

• Reduced appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: Botox can help smooth out wrinkles and fine lines on the face, leading to a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
• Minimal downtime: Botox is a non-surgical procedure that can be performed in minutes, with little to no downtime.
• Long-lasting results: The effects of Botox can last for several months, allowing individuals to enjoy their new appearance for an extended period.
• Treatment of other conditions: Botox is also used to treat various medical conditions, such as excessive sweating, migraines, and muscle spasms.

Before Your Botulinum Toxin Procedure 

Before undergoing a Botulinum toxin procedure, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced cosmetic practitioner to discuss your goals and expectations. They will examine your face, review your medical history, and advise whether you are a suitable candidate for the treatment. 

Botulinum Toxin Preparation 

To prepare, you should: 

• Avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, for at least one week before the procedure (if your underlying medical conditions allow it). 
• Stop taking supplements that can increase bleeding, such as vitamin E and fish oil, for at least one week before the procedure. 
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure. 

What Happens During a Botulinum Toxin Procedure? 

During the procedure, the cosmetic practitioner will first clean the area to be treated with an antiseptic solution. They will then use a fine needle to inject a small amount of Botulinum toxin into the targeted muscles. The injection process is typically quick and relatively painless, with most patients describing it as a mild pinching sensation.

The entire procedure usually takes 10-15 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas to be treated. 

What to Expect After a Botulinum Toxin Procedure? 

After the procedure, it is normal to experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. These symptoms usually subside within a few hours to a few days. You can apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling and discomfort.

The effects of Botulinum typically start to appear within 3-5 days, with full results visible within two weeks. 

Depending on the individual and the areas treated, the effects can last 3-4 months. To maintain the results, you will need to schedule follow-up injections. 

Botulinum Toxin Aftercare 

After a procedure, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure the best possible results and to minimise any potential side effects. Here are some tips for Botulinum toxin aftercare: 

• Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the Botox from spreading to unintended areas. 
• Avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 24 hours after the procedure. 
• Applying cold compresses to the treated area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. 
• Stay upright for at least 4 hours after the procedure to prevent the Botox from migrating to unintended areas. 
• Avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, for at least one week after the procedure to reduce the risk of bruising (if your underlying medical conditions allow this). 
• Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours after the procedure, as they can increase the risk of bruising and delay healing. 

Contact your cosmetic practitioner immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects after the procedure, such as severe pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing. By following these aftercare instructions, you can ensure a safe and successful Botox procedure and enjoy its full benefits. 

The Truth About Botulinum Injections

The whole truth about botulinum toxin, a review: (summary of potential side effects and their management) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7874868/

General Risks Associated With Cosmetic Surgery

As with all medical procedures, anti-wrinkle injections can cause some side effects, which are usually minor but are quite safe, and any side effects are temporary. Your doctor will discuss this in more detail during your consultation before any treatment.

Each procedure has risks, benefits, and considerations. It is essential to discuss your goals and concerns with a qualified cosmetic practitioner to determine the best option for you. 

Specific Botulinum Toxin Risks 

Like any medical procedure, Botox has some risks and potential side effects. Some of the most common risks and side effects include: 

• Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site 
• Swelling, bruising, or redness around the injection site 
• Headache 
• Nausea 
• Drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow 
• Temporary weakness or paralysis of nearby muscles 

In rare cases, Botulinum can also cause more serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions with your cosmetic practitioner before undergoing the procedure.