Botulinum toxin: myths debunked by a plastic surgeon

What really works with botulinum toxin and what does not? A plastic surgeon at ACLINIC in Oostkamp explains how botulinum toxin works, what you can expect and who it is suitable for.

Botulinum toxin. Few words so quickly bring up images of frozen faces and exaggerated results. Yet botulinum toxin, in the hands of an experienced doctor, is one of the most precise and subtle means of softening wrinkles and achieving a fresher, natural appearance. The key lies in craftsmanship and customisation, and that is exactly what we focus on at ACLINIC in Oostkamp. Time to set out the facts.

What exactly is botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin is a purified protein that, when injected in very small and precisely determined quantities, temporarily reduces muscle activity. Because the treated muscle contracts less, existing wrinkles become softer and further wrinkle formation is slowed down. The result is a rested, fresher appearance.

It is used for, among other things:

forehead lines and frown lines (the so-called glabellar lines)
crow's feet around the eyes
bunny lines on the bridge of the nose
a subtle eyebrow lift
treatment of teeth grinding (bruxism) or refinement of the jawline in case of a wide jaw
excessive perspiration (hyperhidrosis) in the armpits or palms of the hands
preventive treatment in younger patients who want to counteract early wrinkle formation

Myth 1: 'Botulinum toxin completely freezes your face'

This is a persistent misconception. A properly performed treatment with botulinum toxin allows for all natural expression. The aim is never a mask-like or tight face, but a natural and refreshed appearance. At ACLINIC we work with precisely dosed injections, carefully tailored to your facial structure and the result you have in mind. The right amount in the right place are decisive for a natural effect.

Myth 2: 'Botulinum toxin is addictive'

Botulinum toxin does not create any physical dependence. When you decide to stop having treatments, muscle activity simply returns and the wrinkles reappear, no worse than before. Many patients do choose to repeat the treatment because they are satisfied with the result.

Myth 3: 'Botulinum toxin is only for women over 50'

On the contrary. More and more men and younger women are discovering the benefits of preventive botulinum toxin. Scientific research shows that starting in good time with low doses can considerably slow down the formation of deep wrinkle lines.

Myth 4: 'The result looks fake'

A fake result is almost always the consequence of too much product or inaccurate placement, not of the product itself. The effect sets in gradually, usually between 3 and 10 days after the injection, and the full result is visible after about 2 weeks. An experienced doctor injects at strategic points so that the result looks subtle and natural.

How does a treatment with botulinum toxin proceed at ACLINIC?

A treatment is quick and efficient:

Step by step

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Step 1: a personal conversation

Everything starts with a careful analysis of your facial muscles and movement patterns. The doctor takes the time to discuss your wishes and draws up a personal treatment plan on that basis.
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Step 2: the treatment

With an ultra-fine needle ('invisible needle'), small, precisely dosed amounts of botulinum toxin are injected at specific points. The treatment takes only 15 to 30 minutes and is virtually painless.
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Step 3: no recovery period

After the treatment you can immediately get on with your day. That is why it is often called a 'lunch time procedure'. We only ask that you do not exercise intensively for the rest of the day and that you do not massage the treated area.
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Step 4: the result

The effect sets in gradually up to its maximum effect after 14 days. After that, the treatment lasts an average of 3 to 6 months.

Who is botulinum toxin not suitable for?

Botulinum toxin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in case of certain neuromuscular disorders or in case of a known allergy to the components of the product. A complete medical history is always part of the consultation at ACLINIC.

What does such a treatment cost at ACLINIC?

The price depends on the number of zones treated and the amount of product required. During the consultation you will receive a clear and transparent price quotation. Botulinum toxin is not reimbursed for aesthetic applications.

Why have botulinum toxin performed by a plastic surgeon?

Botulinum toxin seems simple, but appearances are deceptive. A wrongly placed injection can lead to a drooping eyelid, an asymmetrical face or an unnatural result. The correct dosage and accurate placement require thorough anatomical knowledge and experience. At ACLINIC all injections are performed by certified plastic surgeons. Thanks to our surgical experience, we know exactly at which depth and location we need to inject the product. We combine this medical expertise with a refined aesthetic eye, and tailor every injection to your specific facial structure.