Botulinum toxin (Botox)

Dynamic versus static lines

This distinction decides whether toxin is right for you.

Dynamic lines appear only with expression — frown lines when you frown, crow's feet when you laugh, forehead lines when you raise your brows. They come from repeated muscle contraction, which is exactly what toxin addresses.

Static lines are present at rest, usually the result of long-standing dynamic lines compounded by skin ageing. Toxin alone is often not enough; filler or regenerative treatment may be needed alongside.

Many people have both. At consultation the doctor observes you with and without expression and plans accordingly.

Contour uses

Beyond lines, toxin is used to address contour problems caused by muscle bulk.

Masseter — a wide lower face from a well-developed masseter. After injection the muscle gradually reduces and the contour changes. This is slow to show, usually weeks, and often needs several rounds before it stabilises.

Trapezius — for the neck and shoulder line; the clinic writes 「승모근」.

Calves — for leg contour; the ratio of muscle to fat needs assessing, and if circumference is mainly fat, the effect will be limited.

Dose and placement matter here; overdoing it can affect normal function (reduced bite strength, weaker shoulders).

Duration and repeat treatment

The effect is temporary, typically fading over months; duration varies with metabolism, area and dose. The first treatment often lasts less long than subsequent ones.

To maintain the effect, follow the doctor's suggested interval. Too-frequent injection carries a theoretical risk of antibody formation; don't shorten the interval on your own.

Procedure and recovery

Injection is quick, with a fine needle; most people don't need anaesthetic.

Small red dots or slight bruising at injection points fade quickly. Recovery is the shortest of any injectable, suiting tight schedules.

The effect isn't immediate — it starts within days and is usually full at about two weeks. If you want it in place for an occasion, allow time.

Precautions

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Not suitable with neuromuscular conditions such as myasthenia gravis — please disclose
• Not suitable if allergic to components of the preparation
• Tell the doctor about aminoglycoside antibiotics or other drugs affecting neuromuscular transmission
• Avoid lying flat for four hours and don't rub the area on the day
• Avoid heat and vigorous exercise for a short period afterwards
• Seek medical advice for eyelid droop, double vision or difficulty swallowing

A history of neuromuscular disease is a clear contraindication; please raise it at consultation.