What is botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin is a purified protein used in very small quantities to temporarily reduce the contraction of specific muscles. In Belgium, it is a prescription-only medication that is administered by a physician following a prior medical consultation.

Within the regenerative framework, botulinum toxin occupies a specific place: it addresses the cause of dynamic wrinkles, while regenerative treatments improve the quality of the skin itself. Both approaches complement each other.

How does it work?

Dynamic wrinkles occur because the skin is folded many times a day by the underlying facial muscles. Frowning, raising eyebrows, and smiling leave a permanent impression over the years.

Botulinum toxin temporarily interrupts the transmission of signals between nerve endings and muscle fibers. The treated muscle contracts less forcefully, the skin above it folds less, and lines become softer. This involves a targeted, measured weakening rather than complete paralysis: the goal is a more relaxed expression while maintaining facial mimicry.

The effect does not occur immediately. The first change is usually noticed after a few days; the result is complete after approximately two weeks and lasts an average of three to four months.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

The classic zones are the frown lines between the eyebrows, horizontal forehead lines, and crow’s feet around the eyes.

Additionally, there are applications for a heavy, prominent jawline, a gummy smile, vertical muscle bands in the neck, and excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, or feet.

What happens during a session?

The session begins with a clinical assessment: you will be asked to frown, raise your eyebrows, and smile to map muscle activity and any asymmetry. Subsequently, the skin is disinfected and the injection points are determined.

The injections are performed with a very fine needle. Discomfort is limited and brief; anesthesia is usually not required. The actual treatment takes a few minutes. Small red spots usually disappear within the hour. Daily activities can be resumed immediately.

Number of sessions and results

One session per zone is generally sufficient. A follow-up after approximately two weeks allows for the result to be assessed and fine-tuned if necessary.

Because the effect is temporary, the treatment is repeated when muscle activity returns. The progression varies from person to person; there is an obligation of means and not an obligation of result.

What this treatment does not do

• Static folds that remain visible even at full rest do not disappear with this treatment.
• The treatment does not provide volume and does not correct sagging. Sagging cheeks, a loose neck, or excess eyelid skin require a facelift, a neck lift, or an eyelid correction.
• It does not improve the texture, blood circulation, or pigmentation of the skin.

Safety and contraindications

The treatment is performed exclusively by a physician with knowledge of facial anatomy. Botulinum toxin is not administered during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in cases of neuromuscular disorders, infection or inflammation at the injection site, known hypersensitivity, or with certain medications that affect neuromuscular transmission.

Possible side effects include bruising, a mild headache, a temporary heavy sensation in the forehead, and temporary asymmetry. A temporary drooping of an eyelid or eyebrow is rare and resolves spontaneously.

Aftercare

• Remain upright for the first few hours and do not massage or apply pressure to the treated area.
• Avoid saunas, steam baths, tanning beds, and intense exercise on the day of treatment.
• Preferably, do not reapply makeup until the following day.

Combination with surgery and other treatments

Botulinum toxin is often combined with hyaluronic acid fillers, polynucleotides, and biostimulators, each of which works at a different level. It also has a place after surgery: a facelift or eyelid correction restores shape and position, but facial muscle activity remains unchanged.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly will I see results?

The first change is usually noticed after a few days, and the result is complete after approximately two weeks. A follow-up at that time allows for fine-tuning.

How long does the effect last?

An average of three to four months. The duration varies from person to person and depends, among other things, on muscle strength and the treated zone.

Will my facial expression remain natural?

That is the starting principle. By working in a targeted and measured way, facial mimicry is preserved and lines are primarily softened.

Can I return to work immediately?

Yes. Daily activities can be resumed immediately. Only saunas, tanning beds, and intense exercise should be avoided on that day.

Does this help with a drooping eyelid or a loose neck?

No. Skin sagging is a structural problem that is not resolved with botulinum toxin. In such cases, an eyelid correction, facelift, or neck lift will be discussed.

What happens if I stop the treatments?

Muscle activity gradually returns to the baseline situation. The face will not age faster by stopping.

Read also

• Wrinkle treatment