Botulinum Toxin — Botox

Mechanism of Action

Botulinum toxin type A blocks the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, preventing the targeted muscle from receiving contraction signals and allowing it to relax. As a result, the overlying skin stops creasing, smoothing out dynamic wrinkles; for masseter hypertrophy, reduced muscle activity leads to a gradual reduction in muscle size over several weeks. This effect is temporary, as nerve terminals regenerate after 3–4 months.

Common Treatment Areas

Glabellar lines ("11" lines), horizontal forehead lines, crow's feet, bunny lines, subtle brow lift, cobblestone (dimpled) chin, downturned mouth corners (DAO lift), jawline slimming (masseter hypertrophy), platysmal neck bands, and axillary hyperhidrosis (underarm sweating). Each area requires specific dosages and injection points; incorrect placement on the forehead can cause brow ptosis, while inaccurate injection around the eyes can lead to an asymmetrical smile.

Why Dosages Must Be Customized

Muscle strength, skin thickness, facial expression habits, and pre-existing conditions like brow ptosis or latent eyelid ptosis vary from person to person. A "one-size-fits-all" dose can easily cause a frozen expression or trigger brow ptosis in individuals who rely on the frontalis muscle to keep their eyes fully open. The physician evaluates dynamic muscle movement, administers a conservative dose during the initial session, and makes adjustments after 2 weeks if needed.

Risks to Know

Bruising, mild injection-site pain, transient headache; temporary brow or eyelid ptosis if the toxin diffuses to unintended muscles (lasting 2–6 weeks), asymmetrical smile, dry eyes or excessive tearing, temporary masseter weakness when chewing tough foods, and rarely, antibody formation leading to reduced efficacy from overly frequent injections. Most side effects resolve spontaneously as the toxin's effects wear off.

At BonBoz

Aesthetic dermatologists conduct in-person consultations, evaluate dynamic muscle movement, and examine brow and eyelid positioning prior to forehead injections. We use only officially registered, licensed products, tailor dosages to the individual, and map injection points for precise future adjustments. Injections are performed directly by physicians, with a follow-up scheduled at 2 weeks for any necessary touch-ups.