Frequently Asked Questions
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What is BOTOX and is it safe? Botulinum toxin, a neuromodulator, is a natural and purified protein discovered in the 1950s. Botox® is the original brand, however there are many brands available now. In Singapore, the other brands licensed for use also include Dysport and Xeomin. When botulinum toxin is injected into a muscle, it blocks the motor nerves from releasing a certain chemical that allows the muscle to function, therefore relaxing the muscle and preventing the muscular contractions that cause frown lines and wrinkles. The aesthetic result is smoother skin with fewer lines. Who is it suitable for? If you are worried about wrinkles and have frown lines between the brows or crow’s feet by the eyes, you may wish to try a neuromodulator to soften these lines. In addition to treating wrinkles and fine lines, neuromodulators can also be used to treat excessive or unwanted sweating and to correct imperfections in symmetry. Also by strategically targeting muscles, we can improve facial aesthetics by raising certain areas (like eyebrows) or lowering others (like the upper lip, creating a less gummy smile) as well as contouring and slimming the facial profile What is the difference between Neuromodulators and fillers? Fillers are injected beneath the surface of the skin to fill deep creases and lines that have resulted from loss of collagen and elasticity in the skin. Some common, reliable brands we use include RESTYLANE® and JUVÉDERM®. They can be injected to correct defects where volume has been lost (such as the apples of the cheeks or the backs of the hands), or where more volume is desired (under the eyes, in the lips), to achieve a lifted and rejuvenated look. Neuromodulators (Eg Botox), are a bit more subtle in their effects. We use neuromodulators (Eg Botox) judiciously in order to relax muscle contractions while still allowing natural movement and expression. This restores a younger, more relaxed visage, with softening of the lines caused by facial expression. At The Belle Clinic, both fillers and neuromodulators have a role to play in our three-dimensional approach to rejuvenation and achieving a younger, fresher look. Will it hurt? Sting, yes. Pain, no. The majority of our treatments carry very little likelihood of causing great discomfort but occasionally they will smart. Pain precautions are taken with each session and should be about the same as plucking your eyebrows. Will I look as if I had work done? At The Belle Clinic, we aim to help soften your life lines, not freeze your muscles. As this is a technique-sensitive treatment, we ensure that all treatments all personalised to suit each individual following a detailed pre-treatment consultation. All treatments are also done by our doctor, who is licensed, trained and well versed in facial anatomy. Is there any post-treatment care or downtime? Aside from mild redness around the injection site, there are almost no noticeable side effects after an injection procedure. Some patients may experience mild bruising but this can be minimized by following our patient guidelines and physician instructions. We also have devices on hand that can help reduce bruising. The majority of our patients are able to return to work after the procedure. Minimal aftercare is required but for the best possible results, do not massage the injections sites and keep your head upright for the next 4 to 5 hours to avoid diffusion of the product. As with all injections, avoid irritating the surface of your skin with makeup, haircare (including washing, drying, or coloring), heat, or exercise. |
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