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Kingsbridge Hospital

UK 028 90 667 878  ROI 048 90 667 878 

Sligo Hospital

ROI 071 916 2649 

Cross Border Health Team

ROI 048 9068 8858 

Sweating, Migraine & Bell's Palsy Therapy

    • Treatment for Migraines, Teeth Grinding, Bell's Palsy & Excessive Sweating
    • Expert consultant-led Therapeutic Team
    • Outstanding patient care before, during and after your procedure
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Face & Neck Treatments
What you need to know at a glance – Sweating, Migraine & Bell's Palsy Therapy
Typical Waiting Time
No waiting list
Procedure Type
Outpatient
One-off or Multiple Treatments
1 treatment plus review appointment
Procedure Time
30 mins
Results
7-10 days
Recovery Time
Immediately
Back to Work
Immediately
Full Recovery
Immediately
Duration of Results
3-4 months
Risks & Complication
Slight risk of pain, swelling or bruising

What is Botulinum toxin type A?

Botulinum toxin type A is a treatment given by injection into the skin. When not used for cosmetic reasons it is often referred to as ‘Therapeutic’.

Anti-wrinkle injections for migraines and headaches

If you experience frequent migraines, anti-wrinkle injections may help reduce headache frequency.

Therapeutic botulinum toxin was licensed for the treatment of chronic migraine in July 2010 by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Chronic migraine is defined as headaches occurring on 15 or more days each month, at least half of which have migrainous features. Therapeutic botulinum toxin has not been shown to be effective for any other headache type (e.g. episodic migraine, tension-type headache, cluster headache) as yet.

Studies in the treatment of migraine have shown a decrease in the incidence and severity of headaches for a period of 3 to 4 months along with a reduction in the use of painkillers. Some people respond well after only a single treatment session. Others improve after repeated injections.

The current standard is injections every 12 weeks however it is not unusual to vary the duration between treatments in some patients. It is generally worthwhile having at least two treatment sessions to assess treatment response. If individuals have not responded by two to three treatment sessions it is generally considered that the individual is a non-responder.

While the reasons why anti-wrinkle serum helps people who suffer with migraines are not fully understood it is likely that it relaxes the muscles around the head and, thereby, reducing blood pressure within the brain. It may also play a role in reducing the nerves’ ability to send pain signals during a migraine.

Anti-wrinkle injections for teeth grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth Grinding is the unconscious grinding and clenching of the teeth that mostly takes place while we are asleep. It affects around one in four adults, with symptoms that can include:

  • Aching jaw
  • Headaches
  • Gum problems
  • Tooth enamel being eroded

The pressure experienced during teeth grinding can be 20 times greater than the force used in normal chewing and biting. As a result, the incisors can end up shorter with sharp edges and tiny chip marks, and the canines can be covered in notches. Teeth can also work loose and fillings be gouged out.

Until recently treatment for teeth grinding has been basic, with sufferers usually having to wear a mouth guard. Therapeutic botulinum toxin injections, more commonly associated with cosmetic procedures, are now being used as a way of keeping it under control.

Anti-wrinkle serum for bruxism is injected into the masseter muscle just below the cheekbone and the frontalis. This weakens the muscles to reduce clenching of the teeth and grinding which can result in pain and headaches.

The treatment relaxes the muscle to stop the involuntary movements. Treatments for teeth grinding focus mainly on preventing dental damage. New studies have shown that using anti-wrinkle serum for bruxism could effectively stop grinding in the first place. The effect of the treatment lasts for around four months.

Before you have anti-wrinkle injections you should be evaluated by your dentist and doctor as well as a maxillofacial specialist, a surgeon who specialises in the teeth, jaws neck and head.

After this consultation, you should be clear on your diagnosis and better informed to choose your treatment. Your dentist may recommend trying other measures first. If you tend to grid during the night a mouth guard is recommended.

Excessive Sweating Treatment

Therapeutic botulinum toxin is a preparation of protein. When small doses are injected into the skin, it blocks the nerves that supply the eccrine glands. This prevents the glands from producing sweat.

It is licensed in the UK for treating localised hyperhidrosis of the armpits (axillae). This drug has been used for many years to treat muscle spasms affecting the face, eyes and neck. It is used to treat foot problems in children with cerebral palsy.

The treatment is not a cure for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).  It only provides temporary relief. It needs to be repeated every three to six months for maximum effect.

When is it used?

It is usually considered when topical treatments such as antiperspirants, iontophoresis and medications have been unsuccessful. Therapeutic botulinum toxin is only effective in treating small areas. It is therefore not a viable option for treating generalised hyperhidrosis.

How does it work?

Sweat glands are actually in the skin, not underneath it. When you sweat, a chemical messenger is sent to the sympathetic nerves that meet your sweat glands, turning the sweat ‘on’.

When therapeutic botulinum toxin is injected, the toxin blocks the chemical messenger sent to your sympathetic nerves and so it does not reach the sweat glands. Without the chemical message, the glands cannot turn on the sweating. Therapeutic botulinum toxin permanently blocks the nerve endings and so sweat cannot be produced. Within 6-12 weeks, your body starts to produce new nerve endings. These new endings can receive the message to turn those particular sweat glands on, so mild sweating returns. Within 4-12 months, all of the new nerve endings have been produced. This means the full chemical message can be received, turning all of the sweat glands on again. Sweating returns to normal and the treatment has finished.

The procedure

The physician will have a consultation with you before the treatment. This helps to determine where sweating occurs at its worst and to ensure that you have no health problems that Therapeutic botulinum toxin may interfere with or worsen. You will then be told the possible side effects of the procedure to forewarn you of any unwanted symptoms. It is important to note that you will be awake during the procedure and this is perfectly normal and is common practice.

Firstly, the site of injection will be cleaned to avoid infection. Secondly, any anaesthetic that is required will be administered, but this is generally not necessary in the axillae. Thirdly, you will be injected with a very fine needle which will introduce the botulinum toxin.

Therapeutic botulinum toxin is used most frequently with sweating under the arms (axillae), with each armpit administered around fifteen injections which are completed relatively quickly.Treatment for the hands and feet is a bit different in that injections can be rather painful and the treatment will take longer.

Most Therapeutic botulinum toxin procedures are over within 15-45 minutes, depending on the site of injection.

Aftercare and possible side effects

It can take up to a week for the Therapeutic botulinum toxin to start working properly.  It is important not to expect a miraculous disappearance right away. Your physician may ask you to avoid massaging the area or putting pressure on the injection site for a few days, and to avoid strenuous activity. The site may be a little painful and small bruises can form, but these symptoms go away within a day or two.

Many patients experience muscle weakness when they have had Therapeutic botulinum toxin injections, but this does wear off eventually. Some patients have experienced an increase in sweating in another part of the body.

The Therapeutic botulinum toxin treatment can often cause tiredness and blurred vision, flu-like symptoms and possibly arm and neck ache for those who have injections in their armpits. These are all temporary symptoms and should disappear in a few days, and not everyone experiences them. There are no severely uncomfortable sensations or effects which should affect your daily life and there are rarely any complications.

Anti-wrinkle injections for sweating under the armpits. Anti-wrinkle injections block the nerve signals responsible for sweating, stopping the sweat glands from producing too much sweat. Follow-up treatments are typically needed in four to six months. However, some patients can go longer between treatments.

Bell’s Palsy Treatment

Therapeutic botulinum toxin has been a mainstay treatment for patients with synkinesis, partial facial paralysis and Bell’s Palsy for the past two decades. Anti-wrinkle serum is one of the most effective treatments for patients with Bell’s palsy or partial facial paralysis. 

Over activity of some facial muscles may occur following facial nerve palsy. This can lead to unwanted movements in parts of the face.  For example, the eye may close when chewing and smiling or spontaneous facial twitching can occur.  Therapeutic botulinum toxin injections relax unwanted muscle movements on the normal side of the face and reduces tension in areas of the face that are hyperactive due to synkinesis. Anti-wrinkle injections applied to the affected area temporarily paralyses the underlying muscles and stops the unwanted movement.

At Kinsgbridge, Therapeutic botulinum toxin is utilized to address asymmetric facial movement in a novel manner. To create a more symmetrical facial movement and reduce the signs of facial paralysis and synkinesis. Therapeutic botulinum toxin is most commonly utilised with neuromuscular retraining. This will be performed by a Consultant Maxillofacial Surgeon.

Anti-Wrinkle Injections FAQs

Are there any side effects of anti-wrinkle serum?

Anti-wrinkle injections are relatively safe. Though minor side effects can occur and include:

  • Pain, swelling or bruising in the area where the anti-wrinkle serum was injected
  • Headache, tiredness or flu-like symptoms
  • Droopy eyelid or arched eyebrows
  • Crooked smile or drooling
  • Eye dryness or excessive tearing

Who performs the treatment?

Anti-wrinkle treatments should be administered by an experienced, highly trained practitioner, in a clean and hygienic medical environment. It’s important that injections be placed precisely in order to avoid side effects. Anti-wrinkle therapy can be risky if it’s administered incorrectly. Kinsgbridge’s consultant surgeons have a background in head, neck and face reconstructive surgery, plastic surgery and maxillofacial surgery.

What happens during an anti-wrinkle Consultation?

Your consultation for Anti-wrinkle treatment will be with a highly trained medical professional who is experienced in administering injectables. In order to ensure we achieve the results you want, we will discuss with you your skin concerns and advise on what treatment will work best for you. At our no obligation consultations we aim to help you understand the treatment, its effects and how it will work to prevent and improve your fine lines.

If you would like to book an appointment or require further information on the available options, please do not hesitate to contact our private patient booking team via our online enquiry form.

Alternatively, email Kingsbridge Cosmetic Clinic

Treatment Locations

Kingsbridge Outpatient Clinic Maypole

5-7 Shore Rd, Holywood, BT18 9HX

Healthcare Professionals & Consultants

Mr Ged Smith

Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial, Head and Neck Surgeon

Dr Victoria McAfee

Aesthetic Practitioner

Patient Journey

Find out what your journey will be from diagnosis to treatment

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Kingsbridge Help & Support

A credit or debit card is necessary to secure your booking. The card will be saved as your default payment method. You'll receive notifications regarding any outstanding balances. For details on the information we collect and process, while providing your healthcare, please refer to our privacy policy. By using this service, you consent to our privacy policy.

Continue to Kingsbridge Booking

Patient Testimonials

"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Kinsgbridge Cosmetic Surgery Clinic Patient
"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient
"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Hospital spotless and clean.   Staff were so caring couldn’t do enough for me and made sure I was comfortable. Give the place 10 out of 10. Had surgery yesterday and treatment was first class" Ms Demirtas, Kingsbridge Patient
"Their service was excellent and convenient location!" Ms Kneale, Kingsbridge Patient
"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient
"Had eye surgery here twice for cataracts and lens replacement. Super smooth service from start to finish. Very happy" Ms Jones, Kingsbridge Patient
"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient
"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient
"Great friendly staff the nurses go way and beyond.  The hospital is spotless, and the service is second to none." Ms Croke, Kingsbridge Patient
"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient
"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy.  He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient
"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient
"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off.  Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently had my gall bladder removed. All of the staff I had to deal with were excellent and professional. It was the best treatment I have ever received." Ms Burrows, Kingsbridge Patient
"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient
"The service and staff are first class.  Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back.  You are all a credit to your profession.  Excellent service and I would highly recommend you.  Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient
"Amazing 5-star hospital.  Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation.  I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient
"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient
"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient
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Kingsbridge Help & Support

For enquires on post operative support, cancellations, test results and payment

Click for HELP