What are Wrinkle Treatments?
The natural ageing process involves several anatomical changes to the facial structure. Over time, there is often a gradual reduction in subcutaneous fat, which may cause the facial muscles to sit closer to the skin’s surface. This shift can make dynamic lines, such as those around the eyes and mouth, appear more prominent during facial expressions.
Furthermore, biological changes include a decrease in the production of structural proteins like collagen and elastin. This leads to a reduction in skin elasticity and changes in facial volume. External and internal factors, including cumulative UV exposure and lifestyle habits, also play a significant role in how the skin and underlying tissues transition over time.
Wrinkle treatments involve the use of a purified protein solution that is precisely administered into specific facial muscles. This medical intervention works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract.
When the underlying muscle activity is reduced, the overlying skin is allowed to relax, which can soften the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, those caused by repetitive expressions like squinting or frowning. It is a non-surgical procedure commonly used for areas such as the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes.
What makes a suitable candidate for Wrinkle Treatments?
A suitable candidate for wrinkle treatments is typically an adult who has noticed the onset of dynamic lines that persist even when the face is at rest.
Ideal candidates should be in good general health and hold realistic expectations regarding the outcome of non-surgical medical interventions. It is important that candidates are not pregnant or breastfeeding and do not have certain neuromuscular disorders.
During a consultation at our Melbourne clinic, we assess skin thickness, muscle strength, and medical history to ensure the treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.
What are the Wrinkle Treatments options?
There are several types of purified protein formulations available in Australia, each with slightly different molecular structures that may affect how quickly the treatment takes effect or how widely it spreads.
In addition to these muscle-relaxing treatments, patients may also consider complementary non-surgical options such as dermal fillers to address lost volume, or medical-grade skin treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy to improve skin texture and tone.
Before & Afters
Disclaimer: All surgeries before & afters shown on this website are performed by Dr Mirkazemi and are published with consent by our patients. They are not guarantees that your results will be the same or similar as results will vary between individuals. The content on our page is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Any surgery or invasive procedure carries risks and has a recovery time. Before proceeding, please seek medical advice from an appropriately qualified medical practitioner. During your consultation, Dr Mirkazemi will carefully evaluate each individual and provide an honest and realistic assessment of what can be expected from the procedure.
Wrinkle Treatments techniques
The technique for administering wrinkle treatments involves the use of very fine needles to deliver precise amounts of the solution into targeted muscle groups.
The “micro-dose” technique is often employed to ensure a natural look while maintaining some degree of facial mobility.
Dr. Mirkazemi and his clinical team focus on anatomical precision, identifying the exact trigger points for muscles like the frontalis (forehead), corrugator (frown lines), and orbicularis oculi (crow’s feet) to achieve a balanced result.
Recovery after Wrinkle Treatments
Recovery following wrinkle treatments is generally minimal, allowing most patients to return to their daily activities immediately.
- Week One: Patients may experience minor redness or small bumps at the injection sites, which typically subside within a few hours. It is advised to avoid strenuous exercise and laying flat for at least 4 to 6 hours post-treatment.
- Month One: The full effects of the treatment usually become visible within 7 to 14 days. During this month, the skin appears smoother as the muscles remain relaxed.
- Month Three: The effects gradually begin to wear off as muscle activity slowly returns. Most patients find that the results last between three to four months, at which point a maintenance treatment may be considered.
How much do Wrinkle Treatments cost?
The cost of wrinkle treatments in Melbourne varies significantly between patients. Pricing is determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the number of areas being treated and the volume of product required to achieve the desired effect.
Because facial muscle strength and treatment goals differ for every individual, a formal clinical assessment is necessary to provide an accurate quote. We focus on a tailored approach rather than “one-size-fits-all” pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions for Wrinkle Treatments
Specific Risks and Complications For Wrinkle Treatments
Medical wrinkle treatments involve the use of prescription-only substances to temporarily affect muscular activity. While these are non-surgical, they are medical procedures that carry inherent clinical risks.
Common Injection-Site Reactions:
- Bruising and Swelling: Small amounts of bruising or swelling at the injection site are common.
- Redness and Tenderness: The treated area may appear red or feel sensitive to the touch for several hours or days.
- Localized Pain: A brief stinging or aching sensation may occur during and after the administration.
Anatomical and Functional Risks:
- Eyelid or Brow Ptosis (Drooping): If the substance affects the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid or brow, a temporary droop may occur.
- Asymmetry: The treatment may result in an imbalanced appearance if the muscles on one side of the face respond differently than the other.
- Changes in Facial Expression: Because the treatment modifies muscle activity, it can affect the range of facial expressions.
Systemic and Rare Complications:
- Headache and Flu-like Symptoms: Some individuals may experience a headache in the 24–48 hours following treatment.
- Allergic Reaction: As with any medication, there is a risk of a hypersensitivity or allergic reaction.
- Distant Spread of Toxin Effect: In extremely rare instances, the effects may appear in areas distant from the injection site. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing or speaking.
Clinical Management and Follow-up
If you experience any unexpected symptoms or if side effects persist, it is important to contact the clinic promptly. All medical treatments for wrinkles at our practice are administered by or under the direct supervision of a qualified medical professional to manage these risks.
General Risks & Complications of Non-Surgical Treatments
While non-surgical cosmetic treatments are minimally invasive and typically involve less downtime than surgery, they are still medical procedures and carry potential risks. These may include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, infection, allergic reactions, asymmetry, skin discoloration, vascular compromise (in rare cases), and unsatisfactory aesthetic outcomes. Certain treatments such as injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices also carry procedure-specific risks depending on the area treated and the product or technology used. Individual factors including medical history, medications, autoimmune conditions, and smoking can influence healing and outcomes.
A thorough consultation and adherence to aftercare instructions are essential to minimise complications and ensure safe, optimal results.
