Frown lines ( botox / hyaluronic acid-based fillers)

A friendlier appearance when not frowning

The involuntary contraction of the eyebrows cannot only lead to a grimacing face. Under some circumstances it can also lead to an unintentional angry look and permanently form deep frown lines as well. The contraction of the eyebrows can be reduced by weakening the responsible muscles (musculi corrugator supercilii) with botulinum toxin. Within the first seven days you will notice the effect the botulinum toxin has when frowning. Now that you have noticed the involuntary contraction, this is the time to try to reduce one’s frowning.

Frown lines: botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid-based filler?

Length of procedure:	15 minutes
Hospital stay:	ambulatory
Anesthesia:	-
Follow-up treatment:	-
No exercise or sports:	one day
Fee according to GOÄ:	from 230€

Firstly, the hyperactive muscles can be weakened with botulinum toxin. If the wrinkle treatment is of a prophylactic nature, meaning before the frown lines have become deeply embedded, then a botulinum toxin injection is sufficient. If the frown lines are very deep, then shortly after the first Botox treatment, an additional treatment to the frown lines or dent could be performed with hyaluronic acid-based filler. This is where several injections with small amounts of filler is better than one injection with a larger amount.

How long does botulinum toxin last on frown lines?

Botulinum toxin is a protein that chemically denervates nerve endings. The changes to the transmission of nerve signals is irreversible on the short-term. Meaning, the Botox effect to these particular nerve endings will wear off slowly. The length of the Botox effect depends on the amount injected, the amount of existing muscle activity, the initial muscle strength and facial expression. This individually differs. If a medically acceptable amount of botulinum toxin is injected, then the intervals between treatment vary from two to six months. The second Botox treatment should however, be performed after eight to twelve weeks to reduce the initial muscle mass thereby stretching the duration intervals between treatments.

How expensive? How much does it cost to treat frown lines with botulinum toxin?

Medical treatment is calculated based on the schedule of fees for physicians where the physician’s services and material used are specified. The price for treating frown lines with botulinum toxin depends greatly on the amount necessary. For orientation you will find the botulinum toxin price list here.

Does treating frown lines with botulinum toxin have any side-effects?

Some patients suffer from headaches after a large injection of botulinum toxin. Other unexplained side-effects that may occur are connected to the principle effects of this neurotoxin, some of which may be due to insufficient clarification prior to treatment. For example, when treating frown lines with botulinum toxin, the lacrimal gland (tear duct) could also be weakened reducing tear production. A sensitive patient may then experience dry eyes. Here you will find an overview of botulinum toxin side-effects.

Will others notice that I have had treatment?

People who have experience with either Botox or hyaluronic acid-based filler in the glabellar region naturally observe the mimicry of others. Those lacking such experience will indirectly notice that you look friendlier or more rested. One is also socially presentable after a Botox treatment.

Does treating frown lines with botulinum toxin also help against headaches and/or migraines?

It is often said that treating frown lines also helps against migraines. This is not quite true. It may possibly reduce the amount or intensity of tension headaches, but it is not indicated for such.

^*Price is individual and according to GOÄ