Questions about Anti-Wrinkle Injections

How do they work?

Botox ® acts by temporarily blocking the nerve signals in the muscle and as a result of this it reduces the muscle activity and in turn smooths wrinkles. The injection is precise and must be accurate for the best result.

Botox ® can be used by adults over the age of 18. For dynamic wrinkles this can be administered to help soften these lines. It can also be used for excessive sweating under the armpits and also for clenching and grinding of the teeth in the masseter muscles.

Botox ® tends to work within the first 7 days but onset can vary with some people seeing a result within a day and others needing longer up to 2 weeks.

Usually, one treatment is sufficient however a top up appointment is given to review the Botox ® and see if further treatment is required.

Botox ® may last anywhere between 3-4 months depending on how quickly the body metabolises it and this vary individual to individual.

The complications are rare when Botox ® is administered correctly, but there can be some potential side effects.

These include bruising, pain and discomfort at the site of the injection, eye lid drooping, crooked smile and asymmetry, eyebrow dropping, spock eyebrows, allergic reactions, headache and flu-like symptoms.

Questions about Dermal Filler

How do they work?

Dermal fillers work by injecting to add volume to specific areas through precise injections. These can help to plump the skin, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and are relatively quick and painless. The results are immediate and there is usually very little down time associated with having these done.

Dermal filler can be ideal for someone who is seeking to address specific concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles and loss of facial volume.

They can be used for example to the cheeks to give a more contoured appearance of in the hollowing under the eyes to make you look less tired. They can be added to most areas of the face to address specific concerns, like changing the shape of the nose, to having a more lifted and youthful appearance and enhancing your natural features.

Results from Dermal fillers are instant and the full effects become apparent after a week or so once the initial swelling has subsided.

Usually, the number of sessions needed varies on the individual needs and which filler is used. Patients will notice a great result after one session and follow up appointments can give lasting effects. Dr Gill believes it is better to enhance with fillers gradually building on the results over time, rather than putting too much filler in one sitting. Most fillers last for 12-24 months.

Dermal fillers are generally very safe but like with any cosmetic procedures there can be some mild and temporary side effects. These can be redness, bruising, swelling and tenderness at the site of the injection. Rare but severe complications like a vascular occlusion can happen, but it is important to consult a qualified and experienced practioner to minimise these risks occurring.

Questions about Polynucleotides

How does it work?

Polynucleotides are one of the newest treatments in the market and are not a filler.

They can take some time to work and rely on the body to start producing collagen and elastin taking a few weeks to happen.

They can be used for collagen stimulation improving the elastin and firmness of the skin, which in turn makes for a tighter and more youthful appearance of the skin.

They also have anti-aging effects and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by supporting the natural repair mechanisms of the skin as well as regenerating it.

The overall texture of the skin is improved with polynucleotides as they encourage cell turnover and the renewal of skin cells. The skin appears well hydrated and plumper and tighter.

One of the most excellent properties of polynucleotides are that they have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce redness and irritation of the skin so very good in treating rosacea.

Finally, the most cutting-edge use is for dark under eye circles. Historically tear trough was used to improve hollowing and darkness, but the dark circles have been seen to improve drastically by inhibition of melanogenesis which contributes to the darkness in the skin tone.

Polynucleotides are safer than fillers because they wake up your own cells to produce an improvement in the qualities listed above. The results may vary between individuals and don’t happen straight away, unlike fillers.

Usually, 2-4 treatments in total are required which are injected 3-4 weeks apart. One maintenance treatment every 6-9 months is recommended thereafter.

Polynucleotides are best for treating dark circles under the eyes, lines and wrinkles on the face and neck and skin texture that needs improving.

It works well when combined with fillers and is a great alternative for those who are not suitable for filler under the eyes.

Post Polynucleotides there can be some swelling and that is not the end result. This can take a week or two to settle down and then the results tend to show up after 2 months. The benefits can last for up to 9 months however this can vary between people.

It is very common to experience mild swelling  following a polynucleotide treatment.

This is a normal response and typically settles within a few days. It’s important to note that different brands of polynucleotides vary in concentration, which may influence individual responses.

At Signature Aesthetics, Dr. Gill uses a premium brand of polynucleotides extracted from fish DNA using highly purified technology, ensuring both safety and effectiveness. However, as a precaution, this treatment is not recommended for individuals with fish or shellfish allergies.

Some patients may notice a temporary “sandpaper” texture to the skin during the natural shedding and cell turnover process. This is a normal part of the rejuvenation cycle and typically resolves within a few days, revealing smoother, more radiant skin.

Questions about Profhilo®

How does it work?

Profhilo®’s value lies in its pure hyaluronic acid composition, a hydrating substance naturally present in the skin. It is injected in 5 specific sites. Profhilo® spreads beneath the skin, deeply conditioning and encouraging it to repair and restore firmness as well as remodelling aging and sagging skin. It makes your skin appear
brighter reducing fine surface lines.

You will require 2 treatments, 4 weeks apart. After this a maintenance treatment every 6-9 months is recommended

Profhilo ® is suitable for a wide range of individuals looking to address signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin firmness. It is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more natural and subtle improvement.

It can take a few days and up to a week to start to notice the effects of this amazing product. The hyaluronic acid stimulates collagen and elastin production and this can take a few weeks, with the best results showing around 2 months after the initial treatment.

Profhilo ® is considered safe but with any procedure in aesthetics there may be mild and temporary side effects like redness, bruising and swelling at the site of the injection. These tend to resolve themselves and at time of injection there are 10 small plebs under the skin which go down within the first 24 hours. You will be able to resume daily activities immediately after this treatment.