Hay Fever Tox

VCI is not seeing new patients for this procedure.

Last updated January 2022

Hay fever is a common condition affecting around 15% of the Australian population. Symptoms range from mild to moderate to severe. Some of the typical symptoms experienced by patients are runny or congested nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, headaches and daytime tiredness. Many patients are left taking daily tablets and using nasal sprays with little relief.

Botulinum toxin, commonly known for relaxing muscles of facial expression, is increasingly being used to reduce hay fever symptoms. Over the last decade, research has demonstrated that botulinum toxin is a treatment option for hay fever sufferers in whom other therapies have failed or those patients who do not wish to take daily medication.

How does botulinum toxin treat hay fever symptoms?

The botulinum toxin works by blocking the conduction of nerve signals in the nasal passage which triggers the onset of hay fever symptoms.

What are the benefits of botulinum toxin hay fever treatment over other hay fever treatments?

Most hay fever sufferers take hay fever medication daily, especially during the spring and summer months when airborne grass pollens are most prevalent. Windy days can also circulate a large amount of pollen, increasing the symptoms for allergic rhinitis sufferers on those days. Botulinum toxin treatments are a convenient alternative, as they provide long-term relief and can be used in conjunction with more conventional hay fever treatments.

How do I prepare for botulinum toxin hay fever treatment?

For optimal results we recommend performing a FESS® nasal & sinus wash gentle strength 1 hour prior to your treatment appointment. These can be purchased from most pharmacies. Performing the nasal rinse prior to treatment allows the botulinum toxin to have better contact with the nasal passage, and in turn, allows more of the product to reach and target the nerves that trigger your hay fever symptoms. Do not use any nasal sprays for 24hours prior to the procedure.

What is the aftercare process of botulinum toxin?

No nose blowing, using nasal sprays and vigorous exercise for 4 hours following the treatment.

When will I see results from treatment?

The onset of results will vary from patient to patient due to severity of symptoms, the dose used and individual patient factors. Generally, we have found that patients begin to notice relief from their allergy symptoms one to two weeks following treatment.

FAQ

Are there any side effects of botulinum toxin hay fever treatments?

There have been no major side effects reported from this treatment. In some cases, however, the treatment may not be effective against hay fever.

Is there any downtime involved?

Botulinum toxin hay fever treatment performed at Victorian Cosmetic Institute has no downtime following treatment.

Is hay fever treatment with botulinum toxin painful?

The treatment is not painful or uncomfortable. The botulinum toxin is sprayed into each nostril using an atomizer and no injections are required.

How much does hay fever treatment cost?

The cost of botulinum toxin hay fever treatment can vary depending on the dosage required, which is often determined by the severity of your symptoms.

How many treatments will I need?

Often patients opt to have one treatment at the commencement of hay fever season. Some patients will have a repeat treatment after 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the hay fever season and their symptoms.