Neurotoxin Injection

Repeated muscle contractions from frowning, squinting, or raising eyebrows cause skin to furrow and fold, gradually resulting in the formation of facial lines. Neurotoxin injections work beneath the surface and temporarily reduce the underlying muscle activity that causes moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and forehead lines in adults. The result is diminished unwanted facial wrinkles. Botox®, Dysport® are two of the available neurotoxins approved that temporarily reduce or eliminate facial fine lines and wrinkles. You can discuss which one is right for you during your consultation with Dr. Lindsey Webb.

The proteins block the local receptor sites that lead to muscle activity. As a result, the treated area will experience temporary resolution of minimal to severe lines. This treatment will need to be repeated to prevent the slow reversal of previously treated wrinkles. It can also help prevent worsening of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, forehead and the “11s” between the eyebrows.

Bruising or discomfort at the injection site is possible though fairly minimal. This is a temporary and normal side effect, and it will resolve over time. The use of ice to the area after treatment can reduce bruising and swelling. Additionally, Arnica gel and tablets are helpful. If needed, tinted sunscreen or concealer can be applied on the day of treatment.

Dr. Webb advises that you abstain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen, alcohol, fish oil and vitamin E for seven days prior to your treatment, if possible. This helps to prevent unnecessary side effects of bruising and swelling. In case of these side effects, we recommend that you give ample time between your appointment and that special event you are preparing for.

All possible side effects and safety information for each product, Botox®, Dysport®, can be found in their product information. Please review all of this with Dr. Webb prior to your injections.

Dr. Webb will use a very fine needle to inject the product into specific facial muscles to temporarily reduce muscle activity. There is minimal pain that many patients describe as a pinprick or bug bite sensation. If needed, we can provide ice or topical numbing cream to the area before treatment to reduce discomfort. Hydrating well the day before also seems to help.

Dr. Webb prefers that you not massage the injection sites or press them into the skin. This could increase your chances of bruising and swelling. She also recommends that you refrain from strenuous exercise, aspirin, ibuprofen and alcohol on the day of your treatment.

You will begin to notice visible smoothing of the frown lines between your brows, your crow’s feet lines and your forehead lines within a few days. It can take up to two weeks for the full effect to be seen. Improvements usually last between three to six months, and can often be maintained with periodic touch up treatments.

Dr. Lindsey Webb is a board certified plastic surgeon in Atlanta and a skilled injector who has the experience and training to recommend a facial rejuvenation treatment that will provide natural-looking results. These quick, simple injections can effectively wipe away years of wrinkles and soften angry-looking eyes while maintaining your ability to make natural facial expressions, an essential part of what keeps you looking like you.