Frown Lines Treatment

Treatment of frown lines for a relaxed and smooth facial expression

Involuntary and constant contraction of the eyebrows leads to an angry or stern appearance and, consequently, to the development of a permanently deep frown line. The affected person unintentionally sends out negative signals and is therefore also perceived negatively by other people. Many people wish to have their frown lines removed.

As well as innate habits, this negative trait can be caused by both poor eyesight and a lot of concentrated reading. Over the years, these behavioural patterns cause permanent frown lines. While many methods of treatment exist, relaxation of the responsible muscles is the only effective way to reduce the apperance of these lines.

The 'training away' of frown lines with facial yoga, meditation or other methods is only successful in isolated cases and requires extreme discipline over a long period of time. By using the active ingredient botulinum toxin-A as an injection into the frown muscles, it is possible to achieve a temporary muscle relaxation. This significantly reduces or even eliminates the frown lines. In the case of deep lines, additional hyaluronic acid gel can be used to achieve optimal results.

HOW DOES THE ACTIVE INGREDIENT BOTULINUM WORK?

The active ingredient, approved for both medical and aesthetic treatment, is injected directly into the muscle. This results in a pharmacologically induced, temporary interruption of the nerve signal to the tissue. It takes a few days before the active substance is absorbed and develops its effect at the specific target site. After 2 to 3 days, the effect starts to become apparent and fully unfolds within 7 to 14 days. The maximum effect is reached after 5 to 6 weeks.

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE TREATMENT WORKED

The intended effect is reduced severity or disappearance of the frown lines. You will also experience difficulties in drawing your eyebrows together. If you are still able to do so, pay attention to whether you also have to tightly squint your eyes. If so, this is an indication that, although the full effect is present, contracting the eyebrow requires the use of auxiliary muscles around the eyes.

FROWN LINES - BOTULINUM OR HYALURONAN?

As a starting point, hyperactive muscles should be relaxed through the use of botulinum. If the treatment is a preventative measure, and the lines are not yet deep, botulinum treatment is usually sufficient. If the frown lines are already deeply engraved, additional filling of the lines with a hyaluronic acid gel might be necessary. We usually recommend a primary treatment with botulinum before injecting the frown lines with a filler.

How long does botulinum last in frown lines?

The active ingredient botulinum is a protein, which temporarily interrupts the signal transmission of nerve endings This change at the synapses is non-reversible for the duration of the effect. The effect of botulinum on these nerve endings will fade after a while. The exact duration of the effect depends on the injected quantity and the initial muscle mass, as well as overall facial movements. The latter is different for each individual.

The treatment interval for the usual dosage of botulinum used in aesthetic medicine is generally 3 to 6 months. In individual cases, the effect lasts for less than three or more than six months. However, the second treatment with botulinum, should be scheduled 8 to 12 weeks after the first treatment. This is necessary to reduce the underlying muscle mass and extend the interval between the individual wrinkle treatments later on.

The pain

When treating the frown lines with botulinum, the active substance is injected with fine needles. Most people perceive the injection to be similar to an insect bite. Costumers, who have previously undergone acupuncture treatment, find the injections to be significantly less painful. In extremly pain-sensitive individuals, the pain sensitivity can be reduced through ice pack application (cryoanaesthesia).

Risks

Local swelling and a slight redness within a couple hours after treatment appear in less than 10%. In rare cases haematomas or a minor headache might occur during the first few days. Our observation of individuals with pre-existing headaches (especially migraines) indicates, that there is often a decrease in frequency and intensity of such headaches.

Follow-up and post-treatment

After 10 to 14 days, you should come in for a follow-up appointment so that the doctor can assess the result and, if necessary, provide additional treatment. This is not associated with any additional costs. The follow-up should take place no later than the end of the third week after the initial treatment. After that, you should only consider having your frown lines treated again, when you notice a reduction in the effects of the botulinum toxin (approximately after 3 months).

Post-procedure restrictions

You can return to work and other social activities immediately after the treatment. While you don't need to abstain from moderate physical activities, it's advisable to avoid high-intensity sports, swimming goggles, saunas, spas, facial massages and power yoga within the first 24 hours after treatment. Air travel is unrestricted, but please enjoy the sun only in moderation. Makeup and care products are permitted. (Our recommendation: use new and unopened products, freshly cleaned brushes and new sponges.)

Pre-procedure preparation

For hygiene reasons, please refrain from wearing makeup, creams, or powder prior to the treatment. Additionally, inform us if you have taken any blood-thinning medications or similar substances in the last 10 days.