Question 1

What is Botulinum Toxin and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

Botulinum toxin, also referred to as neuromodulator or an anti-wrinkle treatment is a purified substance derived from bacteria. Injection of neuromodulators blocks the release of acetylcholine, the main neurotransmitter that signals the muscles to contract. Without the signal, the muscle is not able to contract which results in diminished facial wrinkles appearance.

Question 2

How to prepare for your upcoming anti-wrinkle appointment?

Accepted Answer

There is no special preparation needed for botulinum toxin injections. The treatment is quick and requires minimal downtime. Please avoid excessive drinking alcohol intake the night before to minimize bruising. If you may safely do so, please avoid using aspirin or ibuprofen the night before. You may choose to skip taking any supplements that might potentially make bleeding worse and cause some bruising such as Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, Ginger, Garlic.

Question 3

How long before I see any results?

Accepted Answer

It can take 3-14 days before you notice any effect from botulinum toxins. The full effect will take up to 2 weeks. The results will last 3-4 months on average. After that you will begin to see the wrinkles and lines return.

Question 4

Is there any postcare protocol I should be following?

Accepted Answer

Your nurse-injector will go over any special post care instructions with you.

Question 5

Which areas can be treated with botulinum toxin?

Accepted Answer

Your injector will be able to address the areas of most concern based on your individual anatomy. The most commonly treated areas are forehead, between the eyebrow area (the elevens), around the eyes (crow’s feet). Less common area that we are also able to treat with botulinum toxin is lower part of the face and neck. Neuromodulators used therapeutically can also help to alleviate symptoms experienced with bruxism (teeth grinding & clenching), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), tension in neck and shoulders (trap tox).

Question 6

What are some of the common side effects?

Accepted Answer

Minimal pain
Bruising at the injection site
Bleeding
Redness
Headache (less common)

Question 7

How long will my results last?

Accepted Answer

It is reasonable to expect 3-4 months before the effects of the neuromodulators wears off.

Question 8

When should I book my next appointment ?

Accepted Answer

On average, we recommend to schedule your next appointment in about 4 months.

Question 9

Will the anti-wrinkle treatment get rid of my static deep lines?

Accepted Answer

The neuromodulators treat dynamic lines that are most visible during the facial expressions. The lines and wrinkles that already formed and are visible during rest called static lines. They require additional treatment modalities such as chemical peels, microneedling and dermal filler procedures.

Question 10

Botulinum toxin types

Accepted Answer

Botulinum toxin types approved by FDA and Health Canada for a cosmetic and therapeutic use are: 
Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin® and Nuiceva®

Frequently asked questions