Anti-wrinkle treatments
What happens at an anti-wrinkle consultation?
A careful consultation is about much more than counting treatment areas. It is where your health, facial movement, goals and alternatives are assessed together.
It begins with your goals
A good consultation starts with what bothers you, what you hope to change and what you would prefer to keep exactly as it is. Anti-wrinkle treatment should not be approached as a standard package. Facial expressions, muscle strength and natural asymmetry vary from person to person.
You should also have space to discuss whether a subtle softening, rather than a completely still appearance, is your preferred outcome. Sometimes the most appropriate advice is to delay treatment or consider a different approach.
Your medical history matters
Before any prescription or treatment decision, your clinician should review relevant medical conditions, medicines, allergies, previous procedures and any reactions. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, infection near the proposed treatment area and some neurological or muscular conditions may mean treatment is unsuitable or should be postponed.
This medical assessment is an important safety step. It also gives you an opportunity to mention upcoming events, travel or other treatments that may affect timing.
Your face is assessed in movement
The clinician may ask you to frown, raise your eyebrows, smile or gently close your eyes. These movements show how different muscles work together. The position of the eyebrows, eyelids and existing facial asymmetry are considered before a personalised plan is discussed.
- The areas that concern you and how they move
- Your natural brow and eyelid position
- Existing asymmetry and muscle strength
- The degree of movement you would like to retain
Benefits, limitations and risks
A balanced consultation should explain the expected effect, how long it may take to appear and why results vary. Temporary redness, tenderness, swelling, bruising or headache can occur. Less common complications, including unwanted weakness or asymmetry in a nearby muscle, should also be discussed clearly.
No result can be guaranteed. You should understand the alternatives, aftercare and what to do if you are concerned after treatment before deciding whether to proceed.
Time to decide
Prescription-only treatment is provided only when clinically appropriate following an individual assessment. A consultation should never feel rushed or pressured. You can ask questions, consider the information and decide whether the proposed plan feels right for you.