Botulinum toxin against frown lines: Effective treatment for a relaxed facial expression

Wrinkle treatment of the frown line with Botulinum toxin is one of the most popular treatments in modern aesthetic medicine. This vertical wrinkle between the eyebrows is caused by years of mimic activity and often makes the face look tense or unhappy - even if you feel relaxed inside. Targeted relaxation of the muscles responsible with botulinum toxin offers an elegant solution to counteract this unwanted appearance without impairing natural expression.

With Medical NOVA we understand that every facial expression is unique and requires an individualised approach. Our philosophy is based on the belief that aesthetic treatments should emphasise the natural appearance without altering it. That is why we carefully analyse your facial anatomy and mimic movement patterns before every treatment. Only through this detailed preliminary analysis can we create a customised treatment plan that leads to harmonious and natural results - for a relaxed look that reflects your personality.

Frown lines are one of the first signs of facial ageing and often develop as early as the mid-20's. People who often work in a concentrated manner, spend a lot of time in front of screens or are under stress are particularly prone to increased tension in the forehead muscles. Wrinkle treatment with botulinum toxin offers a solution here. Scientifically sound solution for smoothing expression lines, which not only brings about aesthetic improvements, but can also lead to a more conscious approach to one's own facial expressions.

What is a frown line and how does it develop?

The frown line, also known medically as the glabellar crease, is a vertical crease between the eyebrows. It is caused by repeated tensing of the facial muscles - especially when frowning, concentrating on work or during intense emotions. Every time we draw our eyebrows together, certain muscles work intensively and, over time, create deep lines in the skin. As one of the most common expression lines on the face, the frown line is often the first area that people want to have treated.

Two muscle groups are mainly responsible for the frown line: the corrugator supercilii muscle, which pulls the eyebrows inwards and downwards, and the procerus muscle, which moves the skin between the eyebrows downwards. These muscles are part of the mimic facial musculature and are particularly active in many people. Over time, the skin also loses elasticity, which means that wrinkles remain visible even when relaxed and develop into so-called static wrinkles.

The frown line can make the face look tired, tense or even unfriendly - even if the person concerned feels completely relaxed. Many patients report that they are often asked if something is wrongeven though they feel good. This unwanted effect on other people is often the main reason why treatment is sought. The psychological impact of this "expression of anger" should not be underestimated, as first impressions have a significant impact on interpersonal communication.

What treatment options are there for frown lines?

Various methods are available for treating frown lines, which can be used depending on the severity of the wrinkles and individual wishes. The most common options include botulinum toxin injections, hyaluronic acid injections and combined approaches. Each method has its specific advantages and areas of application, which we will discuss with you in detail during your personal consultation.

Botulinum toxin: the standard method for muscle relaxation

Treatment with botulinum toxin is considered the gold standard for frown lines. The muscle relaxant specifically blocks the transmission of signals between nerves and muscleswhich reduces muscle activity. The constant tension that leads to the formation of wrinkles is interrupted and the skin can recover. This method is particularly suitable for dynamic wrinkles caused by movement and offers the advantage of a completely reversible effect.

Hyaluron: volume equalisation for deep wrinkles

While botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles Hyaluron directly on the skin volume. In the case of very deep, indented frown lines, hyaluronic acid injections can be useful to fill the wrinkle from below. In contrast to treatment with botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid does not target the muscles but the skin structure. A combination of both methods is often recommended for optimum results, as they complement each other ideally in their mode of action.

Alternative procedures for wrinkle treatment

In addition to injection treatments, there are other approaches such as Microneedling against wrinkles, Mesotherapy for the face or laser treatments with the Thulium laser. These procedures improve skin quality and can reduce the formation of wrinkles in the long term, but do not generally replace targeted muscle relaxation with botulinum toxin in the case of pronounced frown lines. However, they are ideal as complementary measures to improve the overall skin structure.

Botulinum toxin for frown lines: How the treatment works

Treatment of frown lines with botulinum toxin is a precise medical procedure that requires in-depth anatomical knowledge. At Medical NOVA, every treatment is carried out after a detailed analysis of the individual facial anatomy and facial expressions to ensure natural results. Our structured treatment process is based on years of experience and is orientated towards international standards of aesthetic medicine.

Step 1: The preliminary medical examination

Before each treatment, the specialist carries out a detailed examination, which typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. The mimic movement patterns are analysed in order to determine the exact injection points.

During this consultation, possible contraindications such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, neurological diseases or allergies to ingredients are also ruled out. The patient also receives detailed information on realistic expectations and the time course of the effect. Photo documentation from different perspectives helps to record the initial state and to be able to objectively assess later results.

Step 2: The injection treatment

On the day of treatment, the skin is first thoroughly cleansed and disinfected. The injection points are precisely marked - typically three to five injection points are used for the frown lines. The injection itself is carried out directly into the target muscles using the finest needlesspecial care is taken not to impair surrounding structures.

As a rule, 10 to 25 units of botulinum toxin type A are required to treat frown lines. The exact dosage depends on muscle strength, gender and individual goals. Men often require higher dosages than women due to stronger muscles. The entire treatment only takes about 10 to 15 minutesand patients are immediately fit for socialising again. Most patients describe the sensation as a light prick that is barely noticeable and only lasts a few seconds. The precise placement of the active ingredient enables optimal smoothing of wrinkles.

Step 3: The post-treatment

After the injection, it is important to follow certain rules of conduct in order to achieve optimal results and minimise side effects. The treated area should not be massaged or rubbed for a few hours so that the botulinum toxin does not migrate to neighbouring areas. A follow-up appointment after around two weeks allows the result to be assessed and readjusted if necessary. At Medical NOVA, this follow-up appointment is included in the treatment as standard and offers the opportunity for fine-tuning at no additional cost.

How does botulinum toxin work on frown lines?

Botulinum toxin is a highly effective protein that influences communication between nerve cells and muscles. It blocks the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholinewhich normally transmits the signal for muscle contraction. Without this signal, the muscle can no longer contract completely - it gradually relaxes over several days.

This relaxation is dose-dependent and can be precisely controlled. When used correctly, muscle activity is only reduced to such an extent that wrinkling is prevented but facial expression is retained. Patients can still show their emotions, but without the annoying wrinkles between their eyebrows. The effect is not immediate, but develops over several days, resulting in a particularly natural transition and gentle smoothing of the frown lines.

Scientific studies have proven the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of glabellar lines. The preparation has been authorised for this indication for over two decades and is one of the best-studied active ingredients in aesthetic medicine. The therapeutic range is high, which means that there is a wide margin between effective and harmful doses, making the treatment very safe.

When do the results appear and how long do they last?

The effect of treatment with botulinum toxin against frown lines develops gradual and naturalwhich is one of the great advantages of this method. Unlike surgical procedures, the effect unfolds over several days, resulting in a very natural transition. Most patients find this gradual change particularly pleasant.

Patients usually notice the first changes after three to five days: The skin between the eyebrows feels more relaxedand the involuntary contraction of the forehead muscles becomes weaker. The smoothing of the frown lines is clearly visible after about a week, and the full effect is achieved after two weeks. The face appears fresher and more open without losing its natural facial expressions.

The duration of action of botulinum toxin for frown lines is typically four to six months. After this time, new nerve connections form and muscle activity gradually returns. However, many patients notice that the wrinkles are less deep than before the first treatment, even after the effect has worn off. This is because the skin has had time to recover and the habit of constantly frowning has often been unconsciously reduced.

For lasting results, regular top-up treatments two to three times a year are recommended. With consistent treatment over several years, the duration of effect can be extended as the muscles are trained less. Some patients report that they require lower dosages or longer intervals between treatments over time.

Before treatment: what you should bear in mind

Good preparation contributes significantly to the success of the treatment. The following recommendations will help to create optimal conditions and minimise the risk of side effects.

• No alcohol 24 hours before treatment - Alcohol can increase blood flow and increase the risk of bruising
• No blood-thinning medication - Aspirin, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs should be discontinued several days beforehand after consulting your doctor
• No make-up on the day of treatment - The skin should be free of make-up and skincare products
• No intensive facial treatments - Peelings or laser treatments should be avoided at least one week before the injection
• Exclude pregnancy and breastfeeding - No treatment may take place during these phases

It is also helpful to come to the treatment sufficiently hydrated and not to turn up on an empty stomach. Patients who are prone to herpes should discuss this in advanceas injections can trigger an outbreak in rare cases. In this case, prophylactic antiviral medication may be useful.

After treatment: behavioural rules for optimum results

The aftercare after wrinkle treatment of the frown lines with botulinum toxin is uncomplicated and requires only a few restrictions. Nevertheless, there are some important points to bear in mind to ensure optimal results and minimise the risk of complications.

First 24-48 hours: Critical phase

In the first two days after treatment Special care is requiredas the botulinum toxin is not yet fully bound to the target muscle. Some important rules of behaviour therefore apply during this phase:

In the first few days after the injection, slight reddening, minor swelling or occasionally slight bruising at the injection sites are normal. This usually disappears within a few days. If unusual symptoms, severe headaches or asymmetrical facial features occur, seek medical advice immediately.

After one week: return to normality

After about a week all normal activities can be absorbed again without restriction. The botulinum toxin is now firmly bound to the target muscle and the first effects of the treatment are clearly visible. The right skin care supports the effect - we recommend the use of gentle, pH-neutral cleansing products and high-quality moisturisers with a sun protection factor.

A follow-up check is usually carried out after about two weeks. Here it is assessed whether the desired result has been achieved or whether a minimal readjustment is required. Minor asymmetries or insufficient effect at individual points can then be easily corrected.

Risks, side effects and possible complications

Like any medical procedure, the treatment of frown lines with botulinum toxin also harbours certain risks. However, serious complications are extremely rare when carried out by experienced specialists. The most common side effects are mild and temporary. We attach great importance to an honest and complete explanation of all possible risks.

Frequent, harmless side effects

Most patients do not experience any side effects. If they do, they are usually

• Slight swelling or redness at the injection sites, which subside within a few hours
• Small bruiseswhich can be covered with make-up and disappear after a few days
• Mild headache on the day of treatment, which can be treated with standard painkillers
• A feeling of tension in the treated region during the first few days

Rare complications

In rare cases, undesirable effects may occur that require follow-up treatment:

• Asymmetries due to uneven distribution of effect - can be corrected by targeted subsequent injections
• Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid) when the active substance diffuses into neighbouring muscles - disappears after a few weeks
• Excessive muscle relaxation with mask-like effect - avoidable through conservative dosing

With the Beauty clinic Medical NOVA, all treatments are carried out exclusively by medical specialists with extensive anatomical knowledge and many years of experience. The safety and satisfaction of our patients is our top priority. Should an undesirable effect nevertheless occur, we are always available for corrections and advice.

Combining botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid: When does it make sense?

In some patients, treatment with botulinum toxin alone does not produce the desired result - especially if the frown lines are already deeply ingrained in the skin. In such cases, a combination of muscle relaxation with botulinum toxin and volume build-up with hyaluronic acid can be optimal.

While botulinum toxin prevents further deepening of the wrinkle by reducing the underlying muscle activity, hyaluronic acid injections fill existing depressions from below. This combination therapy leads to particularly smooth and natural-looking results. The two active ingredients complement each other perfectly: botulinum toxin acts on the dynamic component (movement), hyaluronic acid on the static component (tissue structure).

The combination is often carried out in stages: Treatment with botulinum toxin is carried out first, and after around two weeks, when full muscle relaxation has been achieved, an assessment is made as to whether additional hyaluronic acid injections are advisable. This two-stage approach enables precise dosing and prevents over-correction.

Cost of treatment with botulinum toxin for frown lines

The cost of treating frown lines with botulinum toxin varies depending on the amount of active ingredient required and the individual muscles.

In addition, consistent treatments with botulinum toxin can help to prevent deep wrinkles from forming in the first place in the long term. This preventative aspect is highly valued by many patients and justifies the regular investment in their own appearance.

Combination treatments are available for patients who wish to have several areas treated. In addition to the frown lines, the following can be treated at the same time Forehead wrinkles, Crow's feet or Marionette pleats be treated. We will discuss the exact costs for your individual treatment in a transparent consultation.

Who is the treatment suitable for?

Treatment for frown lines with botulinum toxin is generally suitable for healthy adults who suffer from vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows. Ideal candidates are people aged 30 and overwhere the mimic wrinkles are already clearly visible but not yet too deeply ingrained. However, the treatment can also be used as a preventative measure for younger patients or as part of a comprehensive rejuvenation concept for older patients.

Good conditions for treatment

• Pronounced frown lines that remain visible even when at rest
• Strong mimic activity in the area of the glabella
• Realistic expectations of the treatment outcome
• No serious pre-existing conditions or medications that represent a contraindication
• Willingness to undergo regular refresher courses to maintain the result
• Desire for a non-surgical solution with rapid recovery
• Interest in the treatment of expression lines without surgery

Contraindications: When is botulinum toxin not suitable?

In certain situations, treatment with botulinum toxin should be avoided:

A detailed medical history before treatment ensures that there are no contraindications. If there are any uncertainties, a consultation is recommended in which all individual factors can be discussed. It is also particularly important to assess whether expectations can be met with this method or whether alternative procedures would be more appropriate.

Alternative and complementary treatments for a youthful appearance

In addition to the targeted treatment of frown lines with botulinum toxin, modern aesthetic medicine offers numerous other options for rejuvenating the face and improving skin quality. A holistic approach takes into account not only individual wrinkles, but also the overall aesthetic appearance.

Improve skin quality through regenerative procedures

For patients who want to improve their skin in general, regenerative procedures such as Microneedling or Mesotherapy. These treatments stimulate the body's own collagen production and lead to firmer, more even skin. They ideally complement treatment with botulinum toxin as they target a different level of action and bring about long-term improvements in the skin structure.

Hyaluronic acid treatments for various facial areas

There are many different applications for hyaluronic acid treatments: From Cheek augmentation about the Jawline contouring up to the treatment of dark circles or Nasolabial folds. These injections can harmonise the face and restore a natural youthfulness.

Further applications with botulinum toxin for a harmonious overall appearance

Others too Applications with botulinum toxin can be useful: The treatment of Strawberry chin smoothes the chin area, while targeted injections against other expression lines round off the overall look. At Medical NOVA, we create customised treatment plans that are tailored to your personal wishes and anatomical conditions.

Scientific basis and medical expertise

Botulinum toxin type A has been approved for the treatment of glabellar lines for over 20 years and is one of the best-researched active ingredients in aesthetic medicine. Numerous clinical studies confirm both the efficacy and the favourable safety profile when used correctly.

The substance was originally developed for medical indications such as blepharospasm (involuntary blinking of the eyes) or hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). It was only later that its enormous potential for aesthetic applications was recognised. Today, botulinum toxin is one of the most frequently performed minimally invasive procedures in the world - in Switzerland alone, tens of thousands of treatments are carried out every year.

The quality of treatment depends crucially on the expertise of the treating doctors. With Medical NOVA only specialists in aesthetic medicine carry out injections with botulinum toxin.

Frequently asked questions about the treatment of frown lines with botulinum toxin

Based on our many years of experience, we have Frequently asked questions from our patients compiled. These should help you to make an informed decision and dispel any uncertainties.

Does the treatment hurt?

Botulinum toxin injections are generally well tolerated. Most patients describe the sensation as a slight prick or mosquito bite. The needles are very fine and the treatment only takes a few minutes. Many patients are surprised at how little they feel during the treatment.

When can I do sports again after the treatment?

Intense physical activity should be avoided for 24 hours after the botulinum toxin injection. Light exercise such as walking is unproblematic, but sweaty sports, yoga with inversion positions or strength training should be avoided. After one day you can return to your normal sports routine. This short restriction serves to ensure optimum distribution of the active ingredient.

Can facial expressions look unnatural?

When performed professionally and in the appropriate dosage, natural facial expressions are fully preserved. The aim is to reduce unwanted wrinkles, not to completely paralyse the facial muscles. You can still express your emotions, but the frown lines will no longer be as visible. A mask-like expression only occurs with excessive dosing, which is deliberately avoided at Medical NOVA. Our conservative dosing strategy ensures that you look and feel natural.

Can I have an allergic reaction to botulinum toxin?

Allergic reactions to botulinum toxin are extremely rare. The protein used is highly purified and the excipients are generally well tolerated. If you have known allergies, these will be discussed in the preliminary consultation. If you suspect an allergic reaction after treatment, contact your doctor immediately. In over two decades of clinical use, preparations containing botulinum toxin have proven to be exceptionally safe.

Can I also use botulinum toxin as a preventative measure?

Yes, preventive treatments with botulinum toxin make perfect sense. Many doctors recommend starting low-dose treatments in the late twenties or early thirties when the first dynamic wrinkles appear. Early muscle relaxation prevents deep, permanent wrinkles from forming in the first place. This approach is becoming increasingly important in modern aesthetic medicine.

What happens if I don't want to repeat the treatment?

If you decide against further treatment, muscle activity will return completely after about four to six months. The wrinkles develop again as before the treatment - but not more strongly. Botulinum toxin does not cause any long-term changes when it is discontinued. However, many patients report that they find the frown lines more annoying after a break in treatment than before, as they have become accustomed to the smoother appearance.

Can the treatment be combined with other procedures?

Yes, the combination is not only possible, but often even particularly useful and effective. Combinations with hyaluronic fillers for deep wrinkles or with skin-improving treatments such as mesotherapy have proved very successful. Simultaneous treatment of other areas of the face is also very popular. We will discuss the optimal sequence and ideal timing in detail during your individual consultation.

How long does the effect last and how often do I need to be treated?

The duration of action is typically 4-6 monthsindividual factors such as metabolic rate, muscle activity and lifestyle play a role. Interestingly, with regular treatments, many patients find that the effect lasts longer over time as the muscles become accustomed to the relaxed position. The optimum treatment frequency is usually 2-3 treatments per year.

What happens at the check-up appointment?

The Follow-up appointment after 10-14 days is included in the treatment as standard. At this point, the botulinum toxin has taken full effect and we can assess the result together. If necessary, we can make fine corrections or re-treat asymmetrical areas to ensure a perfectly symmetrical and natural appearance - at no extra cost.

Your way to a relaxed facial expression

Frown lines do not have to permanently characterise your face. A professional treatment with botulinum toxin can give you a fresher, more relaxed look - without sacrificing your natural expressiveness. At Medical NOVA, we combine medical expertise with a keen sense of aesthetic proportionsto help you achieve natural, harmonious results.

Our specialists have many years of experience in aesthetic medicine and undergo continuous further training. Each treatment is carried out according to the latest scientific standards and is individually tailored to your facial anatomy and your wishes.

Dr Tukezban Huseynova, MD
Medical Director Medical NOVA GmbH
Specialist in ophthalmology and optometry | ophthalmic surgeon | specialist in aesthetic medicine
Over 15 years of international experience | 10,000+ successful eye operations
Further information about the author | Our team | About Medical NOVA

Whether you are considering treatment with botulinum toxin for the first time or already have experience with other aesthetic treatments, we will provide you with comprehensive and transparent advice on all aspects of the treatment. In a consultation, we will analyse your facial expressions, discuss your goals and draw up an individual treatment plan. Our central location in the Zurich Unterland makes us convenient for patients from Zurich, Winterthur and the entire region. easily accessible.