Anti-Wrinkle Injections: What to Expect From Your First Appointment

Anti-wrinkle injections are one of the most popular non-surgical aesthetic treatments in the UK. For many people, the first appointment can feel unfamiliar, particularly if it is their first experience with injectable treatments. Understanding what happens before, during, and after treatment can help patients feel informed and confident when booking.

This guide explains what to expect from a first anti-wrinkle injection appointment, how the treatment works, and what results may be achieved.

What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?

Anti-wrinkle injections are a prescription-only injectable treatment commonly used to soften the appearance of dynamic facial lines. These lines are caused by repeated muscle movement over time, such as frowning, squinting, or raising the eyebrows.

The treatment works by temporarily relaxing specific facial muscles. This may help reduce the appearance of lines and prevent them from becoming deeper, while still allowing for natural facial expression when administered correctly.

Common Treatment Areas for Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti-wrinkle injections are most commonly used to treat dynamic lines caused by repeated facial movement. Depending on individual anatomy and clinical suitability, treatment may be considered in the following areas:

Upper Face

• Forehead lines: horizontal lines caused by raising the eyebrows

• Frown lines (glabellar lines): vertical lines between the eyebrows

• Crow’s feet: fine lines at the outer corners of the eyes

• Bunny lines: lines on the sides of the nose when smiling or scrunching

Eye & Brow Area

• Eyebrow lift: subtle lift of the brow to create a more open eye appearance

• Under-eye lines: in carefully selected cases and with appropriate assessment

• Lower eyelid wrinkles: suitability dependent on anatomy and muscle activity

Mid-Face

• Nasal tip droop: to support a downward-turning nasal tip

• Gummy smile: to reduce excessive gum show when smiling

Lower Face

• Lip flip: to enhance upper lip appearance without adding volume
• Smoker’s lines (perioral lines): vertical lines around the mouth
• Marionette line support: to soften the downward pull at the corners of the mouth
• Chin dimpling (orange peel chin): to smooth uneven chin texture
• Jawline slimming (masseter muscles): commonly used for facial contouring or jaw clenching
• Downturned mouth corners: to create a more relaxed resting expression

Other Areas

• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis): commonly underarms, hands, or feet (medical indication)

Your Initial Consultation

Before any treatment takes place, a consultation is essential. This appointment allows us to:

• Discuss aesthetic goals and concerns
• Review medical history and suitability
• Assess facial anatomy and muscle movement
• Explain the treatment process and expected outcomes

This is also the opportunity to ask questions about safety, results, and aftercare.

Aftercare and Recovery

One of the key advantages of anti-wrinkle injections is minimal downtime. Most people return to normal activities shortly after treatment.

General aftercare advice may include:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours
• Remaining upright for several hours after treatment
• Avoiding pressure or massage to treated areas

Mild redness or swelling at injection sites may occur temporarily and typically settles quickly.

When Will Results Be Visible?

Results are not immediate. Initial effects are often noticed within a few days, with full results developing over 7-14 days. The outcome should appear natural, with softened lines rather than a “frozen” look. Results vary between individuals and depend on factors such as muscle strength and treatment area.

How Long Do Results Last?

Anti-wrinkle injection results are temporary. Effects typically last around 4 months, after which muscle activity gradually returns. Many patients choose to maintain results with regular review appointments.

Is Anti-Wrinkle Treatment Right for You?

Anti-wrinkle injections may be suitable for adults looking to reduce the appearance of expression lines or prevent them from becoming more pronounced. A personalised consultation is essential to determine whether the treatment aligns with individual goals and expectations.

Book a Consultation

For those considering anti-wrinkle injections in Reading, a professional consultation is the first step towards safe and effective treatment. Our clinic can provide advice and discuss suitable options based on facial anatomy and desired results.