MUSCLE RELAXATION (Botulinum Type A)
Botulinum Type A treatments offer a subtle, non-surgical way to soften fine lines and reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expression. Rather than changing the way you look, they work by gently relaxing selected muscles to create a softer, more refreshed appearance that still feels like you.
At Dr Kath Aesthetics, these treatments are guided by the Natural Plus approach—carefully considered enhancements that preserve your individuality while gently supporting the changes that come with intentional aging. The aim is never to erase expression, but to restore balance and help you look rested, confident, and naturally refreshed.
Results typically last 3–6 months and can be maintained with repeat treatments. In addition to aesthetic use, Botulinum Type A can also be used to treat excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis), with results often lasting up to 9 months.
At Dr Kath Aesthetics, Dysport® is the preferred Botulinum Type A product. One of four approved brands available in Aotearoa New Zealand, Dysport® has a well-established safety profile and is recognised for producing natural-looking results. It was chosen for its ability to achieve subtle, natural-looking results.
Off-label treatments may also be discussed during your consultation where clinically appropriate.
RESPONSE
May be seen as early as 24 hrs after treatment
RESULTS
That can last up to 6 months.
SATISFACTION
Positive client feedback for natural looking results
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BEFORE TREATMENT
Inform Us:
Of any significant medical history, dental issues, allergies, or autoimmune conditions.
It is important you let us know if you are taking any prescribed or OTC medication/supplements. Certain foods, supplements, and medications are associated with an increased risk of bruising:
• Fish/omega and Evening primrose oil.
• Vitamin E, gingko biloba, garlic, ginger, and turmeric supplements.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) e.g. ibuprofen/nurofen, naproxen, diclofenac/voltaren.
• Anticoagulation medication e.g. aspirin/cartia. If taking dabigatran/pradaxa, rivaroxaban or warfarin please contact Dr Kath to make sure it is safe to stop these.
• Alcohol and green tea should also be avoided for 2 days prior to your treatment.
Zinc is known as a "botox booster" and studies have found it to be effective in extending the effects of botulinum toxin injections by up to 30% if taken for at least 4 days prior to your treatment.
AFTER TREATMENT
• Maximise facial activity as directed for 1 hour and do not lie down for 4 hours.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, spa baths/saunas and consuming alcohol for 24 hours.
• No facial treatments, putting pressure on the treated area for 2 days. You may gently cleanse/moisturise and apply sunscreen gently with cotton wool.
• Make sure you skin is properly hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water and using moisturiser morning and night.
• Avoid scrubs, facial massages, and abrasive cleansers for at least a week to ensure your botox treatment is not disrupted.
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HOW DOES DYSPORT® WORK?
Dysport® works by temporarily blocking signals from nerve endings to prevent muscle contraction. Once muscles are relaxed, the overlying wrinkles soften and reduce.
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD I START TREATMENT?
Dysport® is approved for aesthetic use for clients 18 years and older. Most start in their mid-20's to late 30's but there is no specific age you "should" start treatments - Dr Kath didn't start until she was much older.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Like any aesthetic treatment there are risks to be aware of, these complications will be discussed during your consultation but may include:
• Injection site reactions - pain, swelling or bruising.
• Headache
• Eyelid ptosis (drooping)
• Brow ptosis (drooping)
• Uneven smile or Brow raise
• Dryness of the eyes or excessive tearing
• Botulinum Toxin resistance
• Anaphylaxis*
Anaphylaxis is an exceedingly rare complication. The Studio has a full adverse reaction kit on-site, including adrenaline.
IS DYSPORT® SAFE?
With almost three decades of clinical experience Dysport® has a well-established safety profile across multiple treatment cycles and no evidence of cumulative safety issues seen in clinical studies.
HOW QUICKLY WILL IT WORK & HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?
Dysport® is known for its rapid onset and long-lasting results. Time of onset can be affected by the volume of Dysport® used and muscle thickness. Improvements may be noticed as early as 24 hours after treatment however, in general, most clients will see a response in 2-3 days with peak effect reached at 2 weeks.
Duration of results can last up to 6 months but vary depending on frequency of treatments and individual characteristics such as metabolism, area being treated, dose administered, lifestyle factors (diet, smoking, sun exposure), age, and skin quality.
CAN I STILL HAVE TREATMENT WHILE PREGNANT OR IF BREASTFEEDING?
Unfortunately, no. There are no studies or data indicating botulinum toxin treatments are safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please enjoy this precious time and book a consultation when you are able.
DO MUSCLE RELAXATION TREATMENTS HURT?
Muscle relaxation injections are well tolerated, and clients are often surprised they "hardly feel a thing". This is due to a combination of the needles being very fine, very small and Dr Kath being very fast. The area being treated can also play a role with some being more sensitive than others. You may feel a pin scratch or stinging sensation, but Dr Kath has some tricks up her sleeve to help minimize this.
HOW MUCH WILL MY APPEARANCE CHANGE?
Short answer = very little. Maintaining a natural look is one of the reasons muscle relaxation is Dr Kath's favourite aesthetic treatments.
Dr Kath counsel’s clients who are new to aesthetic treatments to start slowly by treating one or two areas (maximum). This way, you can gauge for yourself how you respond and whether you would like repeat treatments and/or treat other areas.
HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITY?
There is no downtime so apart from avoiding activities which may affect your aesthetic result you can return to your day as soon as treatment is finished.
WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED WITH MUSCLE RELAXING INJECTIONS?
Muscle relaxation treatments can target a number of different areas and for different concerns, including:
• Glabellar (frown lines)
• Lateral periorbital lines (crow’s feet)
• Frontalis (Horizontal forehead lines)
• Hyperhidrosis - Excessive sweating
There are additional treatments that cannot be named for legal reasons as they are deemed 'off label'. You can discuss these with Dr Kath during your consultation.
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Dysport® (Clostridium botulinum type A toxin-haemagglutinin complex) is a prescription medicine for the treatment of frown lines, crow’s feet round the eyes, and axillary hyperhidrosis. It should be administered only by trained medical professionals. Dysport® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Dysport® is right for you. If you have side effects see your doctor. You will need to pay for Dysport®, and clinic fees will apply. For details on precautions & side effects consult your healthcare professional or the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) at www.medsafe.govt.nz
Dysport® lasts 3-5 months and further courses of treatment may be necessary. Each vial contains 300 or 500 Ipsen units of clostridium botulinum Type A toxin. Galderma c/o Healthcare Logistics 58 Richard Pearse Drive Airport Oaks, Auckland, New Zealand. 0800 174 104
Dysport® is distributed by Pharmacy Retailing (NZ) Ltd t/a Healthcare Logistics P O Box 62027, Sylvia Park, Auckland 1644