Botulinum Toxin Injections

Forehead wrinkles are a common area of concern.  To soften these wrinkles, several small injections of toxin are placed into the forehead superficially to achieve even relaxation of the forehead muscle.  Dose typically varies from 6-12 units.  Effects can be seen within 2-5 days with maximum effect at 2 weeks.  Duration is typically 2-4 months.

The muscles of the "glabellar complex" are responsible for your frown lines or furrow.  Since these tend to be stronger muscles, they often require a larger dose injection. This area typically receives 3-5 injections with a total dose of 12-30 units.

The lines around your eyes result from movement of a circular muscle surrounding the orbit.  Small injections into this muscle can give a more relaxed look and dont' have to completely "freeze" your lines of expression.  Typical dose is 6-12 units per eye.

Injections in the lower face can calm a "cobblestone chin" like you see above, or improve the downturned corners of the mouth.  Dose varies.

Injections of botulinum toxin around the lips can be used to treat radial lip lines or "smoker's lines."  It can also be used to reduce gummy show when you smile.  Lip injections are sometimes called a "lip flip" because they cause a outward turn of the lip which can help it look fuller.   Dose varies.

Platysmal bands are vertical bands on the neck that can cause a downward pull on the jawline.  These tend to become more visible with aging and cause concern for some.  Injections into these bands can relax the muscle that causes them and create a smoother appearance to the neck as well and improve the appearance of the jowl.  Masseter injections are used to relax the chewing muscle of the jaw and can help with bruxism (teeth grinding) and resulting headaches.  A sometimes pleasing side effect can be a thinning of the facial contour.  Not everyone is a candidate for these injections.