Botulinum Toxin
Are facial wrinkles bothering you? Treatment with botulinum toxin is one of the five “superpowers” you can rely on in this situation. Botulinum toxin injections are a relatively simple procedure that reduces expression lines. You will look younger, fresher, with diminished wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and the nose.
What are the five superpowers available to fight aging?
- botulinum toxin
- hyaluronic acid
- biorevitalization through mesotherapy or PRX
- non-surgical lifting with threads
What is it used for and what are the effects of botulinum toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a substance derived from the Clostridium Botulinum bacteria. When injected directly into muscles, it temporarily blocks the transmission of nerve impulses from the facial nerves, relaxing them. As a result, muscles contract less strongly, and wrinkles do not appear. The experience of the doctor is crucial to ensure a natural result, avoiding a frozen mask-like appearance.
Botulinum toxin rejuvenates the overall facial appearance, making the skin brighter (thanks to vasodilation and better oxygenation of the skin).
Additionally, botulinum toxin is used in the treatment of certain medical conditions:
- excessive sweating (armpits, feet, palms)
- eliminates the so-called “Gummy smile” – the unaesthetic exposure of a portion of the gums when raising the upper lip while smiling
- cervical dystonia
- migraines
- torticollis (the sharp neck pain after staying or sleeping in an uncomfortable position)
- strabismus (“crossed eyes”)
- facial spasms
- bruxism (teeth grinding)
Who should not receive botulinum toxin injections?
- pregnant women
- breastfeeding women
- neurological conditions
- allergies
- infection in the area to be injected
- allergy to any of the ingredients
Certain aesthetic or other treatments, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, etc., may negatively interact with botulinum toxin. Therefore, it is recommended to inform your doctor about your complete medical history and any future procedures you plan. This ensures a safe and positive experience medically.
What are the possible side effects of botulinum toxin?
- headaches
- ptosis (drooping eyelids)
- nausea
- blurred vision
- slight uncontrolled eye movements
- facial pain
- redness at the injection site
- bruising at the injection sites
- flu-like symptoms
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE PERFORMED?
Depending on the treated area, around 4–10 injections with a very fine needle may be used (the amount injected is small). Local anesthesia is not required, and the pain is minor. You can resume your activity immediately as it is an outpatient procedure with no recovery period. You can drive your own car immediately after the injection.
The entire procedure takes a maximum of 20 minutes.
How long do the effects of botulinum toxin injections last?
The duration depends on each individual, the size of the treated wrinkles, and the health and firmness of the skin. You can repeat botulinum toxin injections approximately every four months, returning to the doctor around 3–4 times a year for maximum effect.
Do wrinkles worsen when treatment stops?
Not at all. This is definitely a myth! During botulinum toxin use, the face appears firmer, fresher, and wrinkle-free. Over time, natural aging occurs, which isn’t visible on the face thanks to botulinum toxin. Once you stop the treatment, the natural aging process will become noticeable, creating the illusion of worsening wrinkles. Botulinum toxin maintains a youthful appearance but does not stop aging.
Is botulinum toxin injected into the lips?
No, never. There is often confusion between botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid. The latter is used for lip augmentation and nasolabial folds.
