Botulinum Toxin

What are Botulinum Toxin Injections?

Botulinum toxin injections or neurotoxin injections, consist of highly purified neurotoxins widely used in aesthetic and medical dermatology. While best known for its wrinkle-smoothing effects, botulinum toxin injections also treat a range of dermatological conditions safely and effectively when administered by experienced professionals.

How do Botulinum Toxin Injections work?

The treatment works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to specific muscles or glands. When injected in controlled doses, it prevents these muscles from contracting. This helps to soften dynamic wrinkles and manage conditions linked to overactive muscle or gland activity.
In cosmetic dermatology, this results in a more relaxed, youthful appearance without the need for surgery.

What conditions can Botulinum Toxin Injections treat?

It is can be used for both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, including:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of the underarms, palms or soles of the feet
• Facial wrinkles, such as forehead lines, frown lines (glabellar lines) and crow’s feet
• Gummy smile correction
• Jaw slimming (masseter reduction) for facial contouring
• Neck bands (platysmal bands)

Benefits of Botulinum Toxin Injections

Some of the benefits are:

• Natural-looking results when performed by skilled injectors
• Non-surgical with minimal downtime
• Quick and convenient “lunchtime” procedure
• Safe, with decades of clinical use
• Effects naturally wear off over 3 to 6 months
• Visible improvement within days

How Botulinum Toxin differs from traditional facelift and dermal fillers

When considering facial rejuvenation, it is important to understand the differences between these common aesthetic treatments. Botulinum toxin, dermal fillers and surgical facelifts each serve distinct purposes. The most ideal option depends on your specific concerns, age and desired results.

What are some potential side effects and complications of Botulinum Toxin Injections?

When performed by a qualified medical professional, the injections are very safe.

However, like all medical procedures, there are possible side effects, which are usually mild and temporary:

• Drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow if the toxin spreads to unintended muscles
• Headache or flu-like symptoms in the first 24 hours
• Mild redness, swelling or bruising at the injection site
• Temporary asymmetry or uneven results

These effects usually resolve on their own within a few days. Serious complications are rare, especially when the procedure is done in a clinical setting with proper technique.

What to expect when getting Botulinum Toxin Injections

Getting the injections is a step toward achieving a smoother, more refreshed appearance without the need for surgery. While the procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive, understanding what to expect before, during and after treatment can help you feel more confident and prepared.

Consultation

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation. Our dermatologists will:

• Assess your facial anatomy and muscle movement
• Discuss your aesthetic goals and any medical concerns
• Recommend a personalised treatment plan

Once you are comfortable, the skin will be cleansed and the botulinum toxin will be injected using a very fine needle into targeted facial muscles. The procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You may experience minor redness or swelling immediately after, which typically subsides within an hour.

A topical anaesthetic or numbing cream may be applied to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. 

After your treatment procedure

Once the treatment is complete, you can expect a quick return to normal activities. However, it is important to know what changes to look out for in the days following treatment so you can manage your expectations and optimise your results. This includes:

• Results Timeline – you may notice a softening of lines within 3 to 5 days, with the full effect becoming visible by 10 to 14 days.
• Mild Side Effects – temporary redness, swelling or slight bruising at the injection sites is normal. It usually resolves within a few hours to a couple of days.
• Post-Treatment Precautions – avoid rubbing, massaging or applying pressure to the treated areas for the first 4 hours.
• Positioning – remain upright for at least 4 hours after the injections to help prevent product migration.
• Activity Level – it is best to avoid strenuous exercise, saunas or hot showers for the first 24 hours post-treatment.
• Follow-Up – a review appointment may be scheduled after 1 to 2 weeks to assess the results and make any necessary adjustments.

Downtime and post-treatment care 

These treatments typically involve minimal to no downtime, allowing most individuals to resume their normal activities shortly after. However, following the correct aftercare instructions is essential to maximise results and minimise any risks.

Some of the key recommendations include:

• Avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise, or excessive heat (such as saunas, hot showers) for at least 24 hours
• Avoid products containing exfoliants, acids, or retinoids for the next 24 to 48 hours
• Refrain from facial massages, facials or other treatments for a minimum of 48 hours
• Stay upright and avoid lying flat for at least 4 hours post-injection
• Use gentle skincare

How many Botulinum Toxin sessions do I need?

It is important to understand that the results are not permanent. It typically last between 3 to 6 months, depending on the area treated and your metabolism.

For optimal maintenance, our doctors often recommend that treatments be repeated twice a year. This is because regular sessions can help “train” facial muscles to reduce overactivity over time, potentially extending results.

Summary

Botulinum toxin is safe, effective and minimally invasive treatment for managing facial lines and selected dermatological conditions. At Dermatology Collective, our experienced team of dermatologists customise every treatment to suit your unique features and goals to ensure visible yet natural-looking results.

Book an appointment with us today for a detailed consultation and personalised treatment plan.