Botox treatment, Wrinkles | NZ Institute of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

Botox® treatment is a procedure designed to reduce facial wrinkles and lines. Facial wrinkles caused by underlying muscle action are called “dynamic lines”. Over time these lines can become “static lines”, which means they are present even when you are not creating that particular facial expression.

Botox® works by relaxing the tiny facial muscles that cause facial wrinkles to occur due to repeated facial expressions; frowning, concentrating, smiling and squinting for example. The most common area is between the eyebrows – “the frown”. However, other facial areas, such as forehead lines and “crows feet” around the eyes, can also be treated.

Once the muscles are relaxed, you cannot contract them, the overlying skin smoothes out and new creases are prevented from forming.

Depending on the depth of these lines, Botox® may not completely eliminate them and another procedure may be recommended, such as a dermal filler or laser resurfacing.

With skillful application it is possible to use Botox® to weaken selected muscles to allow changes in facial appearance such as an elevated brow position or an upturn to the corner of the mouth.

Questions and answers

Is this for me?

Botox is ideal for those seeking a quick, effective way of enhancing their appearance while retaining a very natural look. It is not meant to make you look twenty years younger – it simply creates a fresher, friendlier look by smoothing frown lines. It is ideal for anyone, male or female, who wants to rejuvenate their appearance without surgery.
What does the procedure involve?

A tiny amount of Botox™ is injected into selected facial muscles using a very fine needle. Typically, a treatment for frown lines takes around ten minutes.
Is it painful?

Most people describe the sensation as being like a bee-sting or ant bite. It generally only lasts a few seconds. Occasionally you may feel a little sore in the treatment area for a short time afterwards.
Will my face look 'immobile' or unnatural?

The beauty of Botox™ is that because it works specifically and selectively on the muscles that we use to frown or squint, it can be used in a very targeted way. Other facial muscles aren’t affected, so, for example, you can still raise your eyebrows and smile naturally.
How long will it last?

Botox™ lasts for up to four months. The results begin to take effect 2-3 days after treatment and the full effect is seen after seven days. The effects wear off gradually. To maintain the optimum effect you will probably need to repeat the treatment 2-3 times a year. If you choose not to repeat the treatment your lines will gradually return to their pre-treatment appearance fully within 6-12 months.
Can Botox? be combined with other procedures?

Botox™ is often used in combination with collagen or laser resurfacing. Your consultant can help you get a clear idea of what Botox™ can achieve and what results other treatments can provide.
Are there any side effects?

Side effects are rare, temporary and confined to the treatment site. They include soreness, headache, burning, bruising and redness.
How much will it cost?

Costs vary according to the amount of Botox™ required, the combination of procedures undertaken and the amount of procedural time involved. We cannot offer an accurate cost estimate without seeing you. However we do offer complimentary no-obligation nursing consultations as a first step towards helping you understand your options and the approximate costs involved.

A more accurate costing will be made after the first consultation.
Who will perform the procedure?

The procedure will be performed by one of our surgeons but in some instances you may be referred to Prescription Skincare for ongoing Botox™ treatments with our specialist plastic surgery nurses.

This page provides an overview. More detailed information can be obtained during a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. Please contact the Institute for a consultation.

Pre and post operative photographs of all procedures are available to view at the Institute during your consultations.