Strawberry chin treatment with botulinum toxin - gentle smoothing of the chin area

Around one in ten people over 30 notice small dimples or unevenness in the chin area - often caused by an overactive chin muscle. The so-called strawberry chin is particularly visible when speaking, smiling or with a tense facial expression and gives the face a tense or restless look. What many sufferers do not realise: This uneven chin area with fine wrinkles can now be treated precisely and easily without the need for surgery with a scalpel or scars.

Modern aesthetic medicine offers botulinum-Injections are a proven and scientifically based method for permanently smoothing the skin on the chin and creating a harmonious, natural overall appearance. In contrast to surgical procedures, this muscle relaxant works purely on a muscular level and enables an immediate return to everyday life without any downtime.

The philosophy of Medical NOVA is based on the conviction that true beauty comes from the balance of body and soul. This holistic approach is also reflected in our approach to treating the strawberry chin. We understand that every face is unique and therefore carefully analyse your individual facial expressions and anatomy before every treatment. Only through this detailed preliminary analysis can we create a customised treatment plan that leads to harmonious and natural results.

What is a strawberry chin and how does it develop?

The Strawberry chinalso known in the trade as cobblestone chin or mentalis dysfunction, describes a characteristic surface structure of the skin in the chin area. The uneven texture with small dimples, wrinkles and bumps is visually reminiscent of the surface of a strawberry - hence the memorable name. These chin wrinkles are not only an aesthetic problem, but can also affect self-confidence and are perceived as annoying by many of those affected.

The anatomical basis: the mentalis muscle

In most cases, the mentalis muscle, a small but powerful chin muscle located directly under the skin of the chin, is responsible for these visible bumps. This muscle is responsible for shaping and moving the lower lip and for mimic expressions in the lower part of the face. In some people, however, the chin muscles are overly active, which leads to the characteristic contractions and thus to the visible chin wrinkles and fine lines.

This is usually caused by an overactive chin muscle, which contracts the skin over the chin, creating small dimples and bumps. This muscle activity often increases with certain facial movements such as speaking, smiling or concentrated work. The natural breakdown of collagen in the tissue due to ageing and a genetic predisposition also play a significant role in the development of this uneven chin area.

Common triggers and risk factors

With thin skin, the uneven surface with fine wrinkles becomes particularly visible and often increases with age as the collagen in the skin decreases and elasticity diminishes. Other favouring factors are a naturally thin skin texture in the chin area and certain facial expression habits. People who unconsciously tense their chin muscles frequently - for example by grinding their teeth, frequently pressing their lips together or stress-related tension - often develop more pronounced strawberry chin over time.

Genetic factors also play an important role: strawberry chins occur more frequently in some families, which indicates an inherited muscle structure or skin texture. Previous aesthetic treatments on the face may also have altered the balance of the facial muscles and thus influenced the visibility of the strawberry chin.

In our Beauty clinic We therefore analyse the individual anatomy, facial expressions and possible triggering factors before each treatment in order to develop the optimum therapy strategy.

Treatment with botulinum toxin: procedure & mode of action

The treatment of strawberry chin with botulinum toxin - often referred to simply as Botox is one of the most precise and gentle methods of aesthetic wrinkle treatment. The muscle relaxant specifically relaxes the overactive muscle under the skin without restricting the natural facial expressions or mobility of the chin. This scientifically based method has been used successfully in medicine for decades and is considered safe and well tolerated.

The science behind the treatment

Botulinum toxin blocks the transmission of signals between the nerve and muscle, which specifically reduces excessive muscle activity. This relaxation of the chin muscles means that the skin is no longer contracted and the surface with its wrinkles is visibly smoothed. The muscle relaxant only acts locally at the injection sites and does not spread throughout the body, which makes the treatment particularly safe.

Unlike many other aesthetic procedures, this method requires neither anaesthesia nor downtime and can be easily integrated into everyday life. Most patients can return to their professional and private activities immediately after treatment - a decisive advantage for working people.

The precise treatment procedure step by step

As a rule, 2 to 4 small injections with fine medical needles and a total of 5 to 10 units of botulinum toxin are sufficient to relax the chin muscles and smooth the surface of the skin. The exact dosage is customised and depends on the severity of the strawberry chin, muscle strength and personal goals. Conservative, customised dosing is crucial for natural-looking results without the dreaded "frozen" look.

The treatment takes around 5 to 7 minutes and is virtually painless - most patients only describe a slight feeling of pressure or a brief prick from the fine needles at the injection sites. Before the injection, the chin area is carefully cleaned and disinfected to ensure the highest standards of hygiene.

The first visible results can be seen after just 3 to 5 days, when the muscle relaxation sets in and the fine lines begin to fade. The final result is achieved after around two weeks, when the full effect of the muscle relaxant has unfolded. The skin on the chin then appears significantly smoother and more even, while the natural mobility when speaking and making facial expressions is fully preserved.

Why Medical NOVA? Expertise makes the difference

At Medical NOVA, treatment is carried out exclusively by experienced specialists who specialise in aesthetic injection treatments. Dr Tukezban Huseynova and Dr Paloma Petrys-Kulisiewicz are both specialists in ophthalmology and optometry with additional expertise in aesthetic medicine. Their ophthalmic surgery training with over 10,000 successful operations guarantees the highest precision in all injection treatments in the facial area.

We only use authorised preparations that meet the strict Swiss quality standards and attach great importance to comprehensive information and individual advice.

Safety and reversibility

While surgical corrections involve scars, longer healing times, infection risks and higher complication rates, injections with the muscle relaxant offer a safe and completely reversible alternative. Another decisive advantage is the flexibility of the treatment: the effect is not permanent, but wears off naturally after a few months. This makes it possible to adapt, refine or repeat the treatment if necessary without having to worry about long-term or irreversible changes to the facial anatomy.

Tolerance is also generally excellent. Botulinum toxin has been used in medicine for over three decades - in both aesthetic and therapeutic applications - and is considered to be well researched, safe and reliably effective. Serious complications are extremely rare when used properly by experienced specialists.

Comparison with other minimally invasive methods

In addition to Botox treatment, there are other non-surgical methods for improving the appearance of facial skin. Microneedling for example, can improve skin structure and stimulate collagen production, but is less effective for a pronounced strawberry chin than targeted muscle relaxation with botulinum toxin, as it does not treat the muscular cause but only has a superficial effect.

The Mesotherapy for general skin rejuvenation can be used as a complementary measure to improve skin quality and stimulate collagen formation. However, it also does not treat the muscular cause of the chin wrinkles and is therefore more suitable as a complementary measure than as an alternative to Botox treatment.

Combination with hyaluronic acid for optimum results

In the case of more pronounced dimples, deep chin wrinkles or additional loss of volume in the chin area, botulinum toxin treatment is often combined with a subtle Hyaluronic acid-injections. This combination therapy has proven to be particularly effective in practice, as both active ingredients work at different levels and complement each other ideally in their effect.

The principle of combination treatment

While the muscle relaxant Botox reduces the muscle activity of the chin muscles and thus prevents the formation of new wrinkles, the Hyaluronic acid filler The hyaluronic acid gently fills in existing dimples and ensures a smoother, more voluminous and harmonised chin profile. The hyaluronic acid is injected specifically into the areas where volume deficits or deeper indentations are visible. The filler integrates into the tissue, binds moisture and plumps up the skin from the inside, while at the same time stimulating the formation of new collagen.

In combination with the muscle-relaxing effect of botulinum toxin, this creates a smooth, even chin area without the exaggerated or unnatural look that is sometimes associated with aesthetic treatments. The art lies in finding the right balance and dosing both substances in such a way as to create a harmonious overall look.

When does a combination treatment make sense?

Similar to the Chin augmentation with hyaluron Just like the treatment of other facial regions, strawberry chin treatment also involves individualised therapy tailored to the facial anatomy. Our doctors not only analyse the chin region in isolation, but also consider the entire lower third of the face, including the Jawline with hyaluronic acidto create harmonious proportions and an aesthetically pleasing profile.

A combination treatment is particularly useful for patients who not only suffer from excessive activity of the chin muscles, but also from a loss of volume in the chin area. This is often the case in patients from their mid-40s onwards, when natural tissue degradation and collagen loss progresses and the skin loses its firmness.

Effect, durability & realistic expectations

The effect of Botox treatment on the chin develops gradually and naturally, which is one of the great advantages of this method. Unlike surgical procedures, where the result is immediately visible, the effect of the muscle relaxant unfolds over several days, resulting in a very natural transition.

The progression of the effect over time

Factors that influence durability

The results of Botox treatment on the chin usually last between 3 and 6 months. The exact duration depends on individual factors, including metabolic activity, the strength of the chin muscles, the frequency of facial expressions and general lifestyle. People with very active facial expressions or a fast metabolism may notice the effects wear off sooner.

With regular refresher treatments, the duration of effect can even be extended over time, as the chin muscles are "trained" to a certain extent by the repeated relaxation and become less tense. Many patients report that after several treatment cycles they need longer intervals between refresher treatments.

Refresher treatments for long-term results

Many patients opt for a top-up treatment as soon as they notice that the effect is wearing off and the chin wrinkles and fine lines are slowly returning. The optimal treatment frequency is around 2-3 treatments per year, although the individual rhythm can be better assessed after the first few treatments. Continuous treatments can stabilise the results in the long term without the need for higher dosages.

On the contrary, the intervals between treatments can often even be extended over time, as the preventative effect of botulinum toxin helps to prevent deep, permanent wrinkles from forming in the first place. This is an important aspect of modern aesthetic medicine: early, regular treatment can slow down the ageing process and lead to better results in the long term.

Aftercare: do's & don'ts for optimal results

Aftercare following strawberry chin treatment 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

Particular caution is required in the first two days after treatment, as the botulinum toxin is not yet fully bound to the target muscles and could theoretically still "migrate". Some important rules of behaviour therefore apply during this phase:

• Do not lie down or bend your head forwards for the first 4 hours after treatment
• No rubbing, massaging or strong pressure in the treatment area
• Avoid intensive physical exertion, sauna, steam bath and solarium for 24 hours
• Do not massage or specifically touch the treated areas
• Avoid drinking alcohol on the day of treatment, as this increases blood circulation
• Make-up can be carefully reapplied after about 2-4 hours
• For swelling, gentle cooling with a soft cooling pad can provide relief

It is particularly important to maintain an upright posture for the first few hours after treatment and not to lie down. This could influence the distribution of the botulinum toxin and lead to undesirable effects. Instead, you should move normally and carry out your usual activities, but observe the restrictions mentioned.

Important inspection dates

An important part of our treatment is the follow-up check after 10 to 14 days. At this point, the Botox 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. This fine-tuning is usually already included in the treatment price.

Risks, side effects & contraindications

As with any medical treatment, side effects can also occur when treating strawberry chin. However, thanks to our many years of experience and precise application technique, these are usually mild and temporary.

Frequent, harmless side effects

Most side effects occur immediately after treatment and disappear on their own within a few hours to days:

• Slight reddening at the puncture sites of the needles - usually disappears within 1-2 hours
• Small swellings, comparable to minor insect bites
• Small bruises on very thin skin or sensitive vessels - however, these usually disappear after 1 to 2 days and can be easily covered with make-up
• Slight feeling of tension in the chin area in the first 1-3 days
• Temporary slight sensitivity to pressure on the chin

These side effects are completely normal and show that the botulinum toxin is starting to take effect. They do not usually affect everyday life and generally do not require any special treatment.

Rare complications

In rare cases, temporary asymmetry, difficulty chewing or a slight impairment of lip mobility may occur if the muscle relaxant was not placed precisely or the dose was too high. However, these complications are usually temporary and disappear as soon as the effect of the Botox wears off.

Contraindications: When is the treatment not suitable?

The following circumstances preclude treatment or require special precautions:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding - for precautionary reasons, Botox treatments are generally not carried out during this time
• Acute infections or inflammation at the injection site
• Neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis
• Known allergies to botulinum toxin or one of the excipients
• Taking certain medications such as aminoglycosides or blood thinners
• Unrealistic expectations of the treatment outcome

During the consultation, we take a detailed medical history and check all potential contraindications. Your safety is our top priority, which is why we take enough time for this important preliminary clarification.

Costs & personalised advice from Medical NOVA

The cost of treating a strawberry chin with botulinum toxin varies depending on the extent of the chin wrinkles, the amount of active ingredient required and the individual treatment strategy.

Transparent pricing

Pricing depends on the following factors:

• Individual starting position and characteristics of the strawberry chin
• Desired treatment result and degree of smoothing
• Amount of botulinum toxin required - depending on muscle strength and skin texture
• Combination with other treatments - often with a price advantage
• Included follow-up check and fine adjustment after 10-14 days

During an initial consultation at Medical NOVA, our specialists will analyse your individual situation and discuss the various treatment options with you. They will also clarify whether Botox treatment alone is sufficient or whether a combination with other methods could be useful. You will receive a detailed and binding cost overview with no hidden additional costs during the first consultation.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How natural is the result after the treatment?

When properly applied by experienced doctors, the result is extremely subtle and natural. The aim is always a gentle smoothing of the chin area without the dreaded "frozen" or rigid facial expression. The natural mobility when speaking and making facial expressions is fully preserved.

Is the treatment painful?

The treatment is virtually painless. Most patients only describe a slight feeling of pressure or a short prick from the fine medical needles at the insertion points, comparable to an acupuncture needle. We use particularly fine needles and can apply an anaesthetic cream if desired, although this is not necessary in most cases.

Can the treatment be combined with other treatments?

Yes, the combination is not only possible, but often even particularly effective. Combinations with hyaluronic acid fillers for additional volume and to promote collagen production, with the treatment of forehead wrinkles or frown lines, or with skin-improving procedures such as mesotherapy or microneedling have proven very successful. We will discuss the optimal treatment strategy and possible synergy effects in detail during your individual consultation.

How long do I have to wait with the treatment if I want to get pregnant?

We recommend completing the treatment at least 3-4 months before a planned pregnancy so that the effect has already worn off by the time of conception. For precautionary reasons, Botox treatments should not be carried out during pregnancy and breastfeeding, even if no specific damage is known. After weaning, treatment can be resumed without hesitation.

What happens if I stop the treatment?

If you decide not to continue the treatment, your original condition will gradually return. The chin wrinkles and fine lines will slowly become visible again over the course of 3-6 months as the activity of the chin muscles increases again. There is no "rebound effect" or deterioration from the original state. The treatment is completely reversible and leaves no permanent changes.

Are there any age restrictions for the treatment?

A lower age limit is around 25 years, as there are usually no chin wrinkles requiring treatment before this age. There is no strict upper limit, although skin elasticity decreases with increasing age and other treatment methods may be more effective from around 60 years of age. The decisive factor is always the individual findings and the condition of the skin, not the chronological age.

How soon can I return to work after the treatment?

You will be able to work and socialise again immediately after the treatment. The minimal puncture marks from the fine needles are barely visible and can be covered with make-up if necessary. There is no downtime, which makes the treatment particularly attractive for working people. Only very intensive physical work or sport should be interrupted for 24 hours.

Can you feel hardening or lumps after the treatment?

No, pure Botox treatments do not cause any hardening or palpable lumps, as the muscle relaxant only acts on the muscles and does not remain in the tissue. If you experience temporary swelling at the injection sites, this usually disappears within a few hours. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, there is no palpable volume filling with Botox.

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

Conclusion: Strawberry chin treatment - precise and gentle

The strawberry chin or cobblestone chin can now be treated easily, precisely and gently without the need for a surgical procedure involving a scalpel, scars or prolonged downtime. The injection of botulinum toxin relaxes the overactive chin muscles in a targeted manner and ensures a smooth, even skin surface without annoying wrinkles with natural-looking results. With a treatment time of just a few minutes, no downtime and predictable, reproducible results, this muscle relaxant is an attractive and safe alternative to surgical procedures.

An experienced doctor analyses your individual facial expressions, facial anatomy and personal wishes and doses the botulinum toxin so precisely that the natural expressiveness and mobility of the face is fully preserved. If required, the treatment can be combined with hyaluronic acid injections or other aesthetic procedures to achieve even more comprehensive and harmonious results.

Regularly refreshing the treatment ensures a permanently smooth chin profile and can even help to slow down the formation of new, deep wrinkles on the face in the long term. The preventative effect of botulinum toxin reduces the formation of wrinkles, resulting in a longer-lasting youthful appearance.

Arrange a consultation in our practice - for a smooth, harmonious chin profile.