He has been improving his client's looks for over twenty years, and they are amongst the happiest people around. So why do they tend to avoid him in public?

Encouraged by TV makeover shows, more women (and men) are finding the confidence to turn to medicine to improve their appearance. Once reserved for the rich and famous, injected wrinkle relaxers and fillers (termed injectables) are now accessible to an increasing number of people. Injectables are one of the easiest and most effective methods to dramatically improve facial appearance.

Injectable fillers are made from a substance that when injected into the skin creates volume for the treatment of lips, lines, wrinkles and facial folds. In a similar way, Botox is a unique aesthetic treatment which when injected under the skin improves the appearance of high facial lines by targeting the muscels that cause them.

Not only do these injections improve appearance, but it seems there may be some additional positive effects. One of the beneficial effects of fillers is that it can increase the production of natural collagen around the injection sites, but it is Botox that has been (surprisingly) raising eyebrows.

Botox has been around for over 30 years, and has been used for a number of conditions, from Cerebral Palsy to excessive sweating, and in recent times there are indictions it could become a treatment for depression. In an article, Time Online stated that "...Botox has already proved to be somewhat of a wonder drug in its wide application: studies have shown it to be an effective treatment for enlarged prostates, migraines, excessive sweating, writer's cramp and even some forms of cancer."

Following anecdotal evidence that has been circulating in amongst doctors that Botox injections appeared to lift depression in patients, two American doctors decided to conduct a small trial to test their observations.

The results were astounding, with 9 out of 10 patients no longer having symptoms of clinical depression. The research has triggered much interest and debate. Further trials are being undertaken, but even the American Society of Dermatological Surgery states, "It's encouraging that these preliminary results lay the ground work for larger scale studies to be conducted to define a possible role for Botox in the treatment of depression."

It seems that people who use Botox could become happier as a result, and not just because of their improved appearance. But most patients don't want to talk about it. Although many people use injectables, and return reguarly to recieve 'top up' treatments, they just don't let on.

"My clients don't say hello to me at parties," laments well known West Australian Doctor Albert Ho, of Renaissance Clinics. He has been injecting Australian faces for over 20 years and states he has injected thousands of clients and seen very few negative side effects, and even those were mild.

When asked why Botox is so popular, Dr Ho states pragmatically, "Because people get good results."

Angela, one of Dr Ho's clients decided she would not hide the fact that she has had Botox and fillers. "Why shouldn't other women know? They can have it too!" she said.

"Many women are afraid. They are worried about the pain or the harm, but they don't need to be. They can look better; they should know that it's easy." Angela had Botox injections in her forehead and also fillers around the eye and mouth areas. In terms of pain, Angela says there's nothing to worry about. "The pain is miniscule."

"The change was unbelievable." Angela says. "My friends told me I looked fantastic. I didn't realise how much better I would look. Not only do I look great, I actually feel ten years younger. I love it."

However, unlike Angela, most other clients don't let on. Another client who wishes to remain anonymous reported, "I have been having Botox and fillers for years, nobody knows." Is it easy? "Yes it's the only beauty treatment I have!" When asked if they noticed a lift in their mood after a Botox injection they laughed, "of course, it's because I always look so much better, I love it." But you don't tell anyone? "No way!!"

For those who are contemplating Botox whether you tell anyone or not, the research not only shows Botox can provide a healthier, younger looking appearance, it could also facilitate positive health benefits.

So pay attention if you see Dr. Ho at a party. The good looking people who aren't saying hello to him may be his clients.

www.renaissanceclinics.com.au




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