Botox in Oakville at Merrion Aesthetics clinic

Wrinkles develop in areas of fine skin where there is lots of repeated muscle movement such as around the eyes, the forehead and the frown area. We get more wrinkles as we age. With aging the bone structure of the face changes, we lose muscle mass and fat pad volume, ligaments in the face weaken and the skin loses elasticity and thins. All of this leads to the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Some lines are visible at rest- these are called static. The lines visible during muscle movement are called dynamic. Botox treats dynamic wrinkles. There are other options to help with static wrinkles, please just ask us.

Botox is the name often given to botulinum neurotoxin. Botox is a neuromodulator; it works by preventing nerve action and this in turn prevents muscle contraction.

There are three brands of neurotoxin available for aesthetic treatment in Ontario, namely Botox Cosmetic, Dysport and Xeomin. Each brand of neuromodulator is comprised of a different subtype of botulinum toxin protein. These brands are all very similar in how they are used and in their effects and are most commonly collectively referred to as ‘Botox’ the same way a tissue is often called a “Kleenex’.

The botulinum neurotoxin is a purified protein that acts on the nerve endings. When it is injected this protein blocks the signal being sent from the nerve to the muscle. Because there is no signal telling the muscle to contract the muscle is able to stay relaxed. For example if Botox in injected into the muscles that usually frown it will relax these muscles giving a more refreshed and open looking face.

Botox can give a more refreshed and youthful appearance by softening fine lines and wrinkles.

People report feeling more relaxed, less tired and more attractive after Botox treatment. This in turn can boost confidence, overall wellbeing and happiness.

There is now evidence emerging that Botox may help with depression. One theory behind this is that if you look less angry (absence of frown lines) and more relaxed the people you meet respond to you more positively and you feel better, and this positive cycle reinforces itself. This does not mean that Botox is the recommended treatment for depression- there are many first line gold standard ways to work with that including counselling, lifestyle changes and medication, but it is interesting to consider the effects that looking more relaxed and feeling more refreshed can have on emotional wellbeing.

Botox can help to reduce teeth clenching and teeth damage. By relaxing the masseter muscle that clenches the jaw it reduces the feeling of tension and protects teeth and expensive dental work!

Botox can help reduce headaches and migraines through reducing muscle tension and teeth clenching and is now one of the treatments on offer for chronic frequent migraine.

Botulinum toxin is FDA-approved for use throughout Canada. It is a neuromodulator and is classified as a prescription drug. 

Botox has been used in cosmetic medicine for many years. When used by a qualified professional, the chances of side effects are minimal. Botox is the number one non-surgical anti-aging procedure today. It is safe and effective when injected correctly. 

Immediately following your treatment, you may see tiny red dots or swellings at the injection sites.  This is from the tiny needles used to administer the neuromodulator.  These marks typically disappear in a few hours.  It is possible to experience slight redness, tenderness or swelling around the injection sites. Bruising may also occur but is rarer. If a bruise develops, it is usually pinpoint in size, and easily hidden with a dab of makeup or concealer.  If you are prone to bruising you can consider stopping omega-3, vitamin E and alcoholic beverages for about a week before treatment as this seems to help reduce bruising for some patients. Occasionally a headache or slight nausea can be reported after treatment. These minor side effects will disappear within a couple of days.

There are some very rare side effects listed in the product monograph that our team will discuss with you prior to your treatment. 

Our expert staff are happy to discuss any questions or concerns that you may have in person.

Botox is suitable for most people who want to prevent or treat fine lines and wrinkles in the face; in the forehead, frown area or around the eyes. It also can be used to reduce a gummy smile, neck bands, excessive sweating, teeth grinding and migraine.

Our team will listen to what you would like to achieve and ensure Botox is suitable and safe for you. There are a few situations where Botox is not advised such as in pregnancy, breastfeeding and in certain neurological conditions as well as for anyone under the age of 18 years. In addition, if you take a blood thinner or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications you may be more likely to bruise and management of this will be discussed with you on a one-to-one basis.

Results can often start to be seen within 2-3 days, full effect is usually seen around 10-14 days after treatment.

It is a good idea to plan your Botox treatment no less than 2 weeks ahead of any important event. That way the Botox has time to reach its full effect in time for your special event!

At your first consultation, our medical staff will spend time listening to what you would like to achieve and discussing how Botox can assist. They will ensure there are no reasons that you should not have Botox and outline options for your treatment. There will be lots of time for questions and to learn about post treatment care and follow up. We will carefully assess your fine lines, wrinkles, face shape and how your muscles move. We are all made uniquely and that is why customized assessments and tailor-made treatment plans are so important for achieving great results.

You will then have the opportunity to proceed with injections. Injections are given with an ultra-fine needle (like the ones used for insulin injections for children) and the sensation is generally not more than a tiny pinch. The injection part of the consultation usually takes about 10-15 minutes. You are able to resume most of your regular activities immediately. It is advised for best results and to minimize side effects that you avoid rubbing the area, having a facial or massage, doing a strenuous workout, going to a hot tub or sauna or consuming a large amount of alcohol for 24 hours. It is also advised not to lie down for 4 hours.

From your first treatment onwards, our medical team will learn how you respond to treatment. We will meet with you 2-3 weeks after injection, in order that any minor adjustments can easily be done.

Most return Botox treatments only take 15-20 minutes. There is no down time, and it is usually not obvious that you have had Botox right after your treatment.

On your first appointment we book you for 60 minutes to allow extra time to talk with our medical team, ask any questions you may have and for us to design a bespoke treatment plan together with you. The injections only take a few minutes.

If you have had difficulty with any type of needle treatment in the past simply let us know.  Our Medical Director Dr. Kate Healy has over twenty years of clinical experience and will take all the time that is needed to help you feel relaxed, calm and cared for.

Many people in their 20s and 30s are using Botox treatment before deep lines form. They want to take action now to keep their skin looking young and healthy and to prevent wrinkles from forming. Botox becomes part of self-care and beauty maintenance.

You will be able to resume nearly all regular activities right after your treatment sessions however it is advised to avoid rubbing the area, having a facial or massage, doing a strenuous workout, going to a hot tub or sauna or consuming a large amount of alcohol for 24 hours. It is also advised not to lie down for 2 hours. Following this advice helps to prevent Botox going into an adjacent muscle that should not be relaxed. Relaxing the wrong muscle can cause a droopy brow or corner of the mouth etc. Following this advice also reduces the risk of bruising. Our medical team will give you specific aftercare advice following your treatment.

With aging, wrinkles are inevitable. Botox is a choice.

You are welcome to make an appointment and talk to our medical team about Botox. If you are not sure if you wish to proceed with treatment that is never a problem. We are happy to talk about other ways to look after your skin.

We always recommend using daily SPF to protect your skin against damaging UV rays. UV exposure will age skin quicker and increase fine lines and pigmentation, importantly UV exposure can cause skin cancer.

There are also topical skin care products that can help hydrate and repair the skin. While not having the same anti-wrinkle effect as Botox they can help keep the skin healthy and give it more glow.

Our team are happy to advise all our patients on products suitable for them and we carry a range of scientifically proven medical grade skin care products.