Botulinum toxin

Botulinum toxin is a widely utilized substance in aesthetic medicine, synthesized by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It works by temporarily blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from nerve endings to muscle fibers. This targeted "block" results in a transient relaxation of specific muscle fibers, smoothing out dynamic wrinkles, preventing the deepening of existing ones, and inhibiting the formation of new wrinkles.

Applications of Botulinum Toxin

  • Smoothing facial wrinkles:
    Botulinum toxin effectively reduces various facial wrinkles, including:

    • Forehead lines.

    • Frown lines between the eyebrows.

    • Crow's feet around the eyes.

    • Barcode wrinkles around the upper lip.

    • Bunny lines near the nose.

  • Treating gummy smile:
    The toxin relaxes the upper lip's muscle fibers, reducing excessive gum exposure during a wide smile.

  • Masseter muscle relaxation:
    By targeting the masseter muscle (one of the primary masticatory muscles), the treatment softens the appearance of a "wide" jawline, creating a more contoured lower facial profile.

Procedure Details

The treatment is minimally invasive and entirely injectable. The depth of injection, unit dosage, and number of injections are tailored to the specific area being treated for optimal results.

Post-Treatment Recommendations

  • Immediately after the procedure (first 3–4 hours):

    • Remain in an upright position.

    • Avoid massaging or applying pressure to the treated areas.

    • Actively contract and relax the treated facial muscles periodically to enhance the procedure's effectiveness.

  • General guidelines for the following days (10–14 days):

    • Avoid alcohol consumption on the day of the procedure.

    • Refrain from exposure to extreme temperatures (sauna, steam baths).

Results and Follow-Up

  • The effect begins to appear 4–5 days post-procedure, with full results visible within two weeks.

  • A follow-up examination is recommended 14 days after the treatment to assess the outcome and perform any necessary touch-ups.

  • The effects of botulinum toxin typically last about six months.

Season

Duration

Downtime

Minimal to none

Every season

15 min