This page provides general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Indication, product, technique and treatment plan are decided only after assessment; not every treatment is suitable for every person.
What it is
Botulinum toxin type A is a prescription medicine. When injected into selected muscles, it temporarily and reversibly reduces their contraction. In aesthetic medicine it is used for dynamic lines: those produced by facial expression.
What is assessed
The consultation assesses facial movement, eyebrow position, symmetry and the balance between the upper and lower face. The aim is not to remove expression, and treatment may not be appropriate for everyone.
How treatment is carried out
After medical history, examination and informed consent, the doctor performs a series of small injections into the selected muscles. The effect develops gradually over the following days. Dose, points and technique are chosen for the individual face.
Limits and alternatives
The effect is temporary and varies between people. The aim is to soften lines, not remove expression. Lines visible at rest, volume loss and changes in skin quality may need a different approach, or no treatment.
What the literature says
Botulinum toxin for glabellar lines is among the better-studied aesthetic treatments. Reviews support efficacy and generally good tolerability when used by trained doctors, while stressing that products and their dose units are not interchangeable and that treatment must be tailored to individual anatomy.
Risks and unwanted effects
Redness, tenderness, bruising, headache and temporary asymmetry can occur. Less common effects include eyelid or eyebrow droop and an unwanted change in expression. Effects are temporary but cannot be reversed immediately.
Contraindications and medical assessment
Treatment is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in active infection at the treatment site, with known allergy to a component, and in some neuromuscular conditions. Medicines and medical conditions must be reviewed individually.
Aftercare and follow-up
Normal activities can usually be resumed promptly while following the instructions provided. A review after the effect has developed allows the result and any asymmetry to be assessed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the result immediate?
No. The effect develops progressively over the days following treatment.
Will my face lose expression?
The aim is to preserve natural movement while softening selected lines; no specific result can be guaranteed.
Sources
- Dessy LA et al. Botulinum toxin for glabellar lines: a review of the efficacy and safety of currently available products. Am J Clin Dermatol, 2011 (opens in a new tab)
- Anido J et al. Tailored botulinum toxin type A injections in aesthetic medicine: consensus panel recommendations for treating the forehead. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol, 2017 (opens in a new tab)
- Why, when, and how to treat dynamic forehead lines with botulinum toxin type A. Toxins (Basel), 2025 (opens in a new tab)
- AIFA medicines database: product information for botulinum toxin type A medicines (opens in a new tab)
- Italian Legislative Decree no. 219/2006 — Code for medicinal products for human use (Normattiva) (opens in a new tab)
Publications are cited for information and do not replace individual medical assessment.