With age, facial muscles change and fine lines & wrinkles develop. This is due to repeated facial expressions e.g., laughing, smiling, and frowning. Botulinum toxin is a very effective treatment option for the temporary improvement in the appearance of frown lines.
What is it?
Botulinum toxin is a type of neurotoxin that relaxes overactive facial muscles. It has been FDA approved for aesthetic and cosmetic purposes since 2002. In South Africa there are three approved neurotoxins namely BOTOX®, Dysport® and XEOMIN®. It is important to remember that botulinum toxin is a Schedule 4 medication and can only be injected by a medical practitioner.
How does it work?
It works by temporarily blocking the chemical messenger (Acetylcholine) responsible for muscle contractions. The chemical signals from the nerve endings do not reach the muscle fibers, causing muscle to remain relaxed.
Am I a candidate?
- The treatment is for both males and females
- Botulinum toxin is indicated for persons 18 years and older
- It is indicated for dynamic lines (lines that appear during facial emotions)
- Unfortunately Pregnant and Breastfeeding patients are prohibited
- Patients should have no acute infections
- It is contra-indicated in patients that suffer from any neuromuscular diseases e.g. myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or who have muscle weakness
- If you suffer from any blood clotting/bleeding disorders treatment may be postponed according to your treating doctor’s advice
- It is contra-indicated if you are allergic to botulinum toxin
Which areas can be injected?
There is a wide range of facial areas that can be treated with botulinum toxin injections. These include:
- The Glabella (deep frown lines between the eyes, also called “the elevens”)
- The Forehead (horizontal lines)
- Crow’s Feet (wrinkles around the eyes)
- Bunny lines (scrunchy nose)
- Lips (Upper border of the lips to improve barcode lines and to elevate the upper lip slightly)
- Gummy smile improvement
- Chin
Other conditions that can be treated with botulinum toxin include bruxism (teeth clenching) as well as axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating).
Results
Results are not instantaneous and take 5-10 days to appear. The results are only temporary and last between 3-5 months. Treatments can only be repeated every least 12 weeks.
Costs
The cost is dependent on the area, as well as the dose used during treatment and may vary from person to person.
| Area | Price *estimation only |
| Forehead | R 600 |
| Glabella | R 1 700 |
| Crow’s Feet | R 1 200 – R1 920 |
| Bunny Lines | R 450 |
| Gummy Smile | R 450 |
| Lip Flip | R 450 |
| Mouth Angles | R 450 |
| Chin | R 450 |
| Platysmal Bands | R 800 – R 1200 |
| Masseter (Bruxism) | R 3 500 |
| Axillary Hyperhidrosis | R 6 500 |
