Migraine Treatment Leeds: Evidence, Eligibility, and What to Expect
Living with migraines isn’t just about pain, it’s about lost days, missed work, and a constant shadow over everyday life. For those in Leeds struggling with chronic migraine, one evidence based treatment stands out: Botox for migraines.
This is a medical treatment that uses botulinum toxin, unlike painkillers Botulinum toxin doesn’t just mask the symptoms. It involves careful injections to prevent migraines before they start. In this blog, we'll explore the evidence, who qualifies, what the treatment involves at Skinfinity Leeds, and share a real patient case study.
What is Botox for migraines?
Botox (botulinum toxin A) is a purified protein that, when injected in precise sites, blocks the release of certain pain signals from nerve endings. This helps calm the overactive pathways that trigger migraine attacks and may also relax muscles in the head and neck that contribute to tension.
In the UK, Botox is approved for adults with chronic migraine - defined as:
- 15 or more headache days per month
- At least 8 of those days with migraine symptoms
It is not licensed for episodic migraine (fewer than 15 headache days a month).
How does it work?
Unlike painkillers, Botox doesn’t treat migraines once they’ve started. Instead, it’s about preventing migraine episodes from developing.
During treatment, a headache specialist medical practitioner gives small injections. They use 31 to 39 sites across the forehead, temples, back of the head, neck, and shoulders. This procedure takes about 15-20 minutes. Botox can help reduce the number and intensity of migraine days. Results build gradually, with treatment repeated every 12 weeks.
The evidence: does Botox really work?
The largest studies, known as the PREEMPT trials, showed that Botox reduced headache days by around 30–50% after 2 cycles in people with chronic migraine. Many patients also reported a significant improvement in quality of life, including fewer days off work and better sleep.
Real-world data shows that results improve with continued treatment:
- After 2 treatment cycles: about half of patients see at least a 50% reduction in migraine days.
- After 5 cycles: up to 70% reach this benchmark.
Eligibility in the UK
Botox for migraines is only available to adults who meet strict NHS and private criteria. You may be eligible if you:
- Have chronic migraine (≥15 headache days per month, with ≥8 migraine days).
- Have tried at least two or three preventive medications without success.
- Are not overusing acute medications (known as medication overuse headache).
At Skinfinity Leeds, Dr. Mahmoon Rashid delivers treatments in a CQC-registered clinic inside a private hospital. This is important to ensure a safe and regulated setting as only CQC-registered clinics can provide therapeutic Botox safely and legally.
The treatment process
At Skinfinity Leeds, your journey looks like this:
- Initial consultation – Dr Mahmoon takes a full medical history, reviews your headache diary, and confirms eligibility.
- Treatment session – Around 31–39 small injections are given with a very fine needle across the face, neck, and shoulders. The procedure takes 15–20 minutes.
- Aftercare – You may notice mild redness or temporary soreness at the injection site. Normal activities can resume the same day, though it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, or massaging the area for 24 hours.
- Follow-up – Treatment is repeated every 12 weeks, with benefits usually building after the second cycle.
Side effects of Botox
Most side effects of Botox for migraines are mild and temporary. These can include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Bruising at the injection site
- Headache flare in the first few days
- Rarely temporary drooping of the eyelid if Botox spreads beyond the target area
Serious complications are rare when treatment is performed by an experienced doctor in a regulated setting.
Case study: Hollie, 38, Leeds
Before treatment, Sarah was experiencing 22 headache days per month, including 14 migraine days. She had already tried amitriptyline and propranolol without success.
- Cycle 1: 155 units of Botox given across 31 injection sites. Within four weeks, her headache days dropped to 17.
- Cycle 2: A follow-up session 12 weeks later. By month four, she was down to 12 headache days, with fewer sick days from work.
- Cycle 3: Continued progress — just 9 headache days per month. Her quality of life scores improved significantly, and she was able to return to regular gym sessions.
Her diary now shows a 50% reduction in monthly headache days, aligning with national trial results.
Why choose Skinfinity Leeds?
- CQC-registered clinic inside a private hospital
- Treatments carried out by Dr Mahmoon Rashid, NHS and private GP, aesthetic doctor and trainer with experience in using therapeutic botulinum toxin to treat chronic migraine.
- Focus on safety, evidence, and personalised care
- Transparent, professional consultations with no pressure
Conclusion
For people in Leeds with chronic migraine, Botox treatment is a proven way to reduce headache days. It helps restore routine and improve quality of life. With evidence from global trials and real-world results here in Leeds, it’s a treatment worth exploring if you meet the criteria.
Learn more about Botox for migraines at Skinfinity Leeds
FAQs about Botox for migraines
Can you get Botox on NHS for migraines?
Yes. Botox is available on the NHS in England for adults with chronic migraines. However, you need a referral to a neurologist or headache specialist. You also must meet NICE criteria. Unfortunately this can be a timely process on the NHS thats why may migraine suffers opt for private treatment.
Does Botox actually help migraines?
Yes. Clinical trials and real-world studies show Botox can reduce migraine days by 30–50% and improve quality of life for many patients.
What is the 4-hour rule for Botox?
After Botox injections, patients are usually advised not to lie down or bend excessively for at least 4 hours. This helps prevent Botox from spreading to unwanted areas.
How much is Botox for migraines in the UK?
Privately, costs vary. At Skinfinity Leeds, Botox for migraines is offered as a medical procedure in a CQC-registered clinic - Migraine treatment is £600.
How painful is Botox for migraines?
Most people find the injections feel like tiny pinpricks. Discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.
How do I qualify for Botox for migraines?
You must have chronic migraine, tried at least 2–3 preventive medicines without success, and keep a headache diary to confirm eligibility.
How long does Botox last for migraines?
Each cycle typically lasts 10–12 weeks. Most patients repeat treatment every 3 months to maintain results.
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