Botox

BotoxTreatment

An injectable treatment that temporarily inhibits muscle movement by injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin.

Overview

Botox is a procedure that injects a purified form of botulinum toxin protein in micro-doses. Allergan's "Botox" is the most widely known brand, while in Korea, products such as Meditoxin (Medytox), Nabota (Daewoong Pharmaceutical), and Botulax (Hugel) are commonly used. It is most frequently performed to improve expression wrinkles on the glabella, forehead, and around the eyes, and is also used for various aesthetic and medical purposes including jaw reduction, trapezius reduction, calf reduction, and hyperhidrosis treatment.

Mechanism

Botulinum toxin blocks the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, where nerves meet muscles. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract; when its release is inhibited, the targeted muscle temporarily relaxes. Expression wrinkles caused by repetitive muscle contractions (forehead lines, frown lines, crow's feet) are smoothed as the muscle relaxes. When injected into the jaw or calves, the activity of the masseter or gastrocnemius muscle decreases, and muscle volume naturally reduces over time.

Effects

The most notable effect is the reduction of expression wrinkles (forehead, glabella, crow's feet). Results begin to appear 3–7 days after treatment and reach maximum effect after 2 weeks. For jaw injections, the masseter volume decreases, creating a slimmer facial line, typically noticeable 4–6 weeks later. Trapezius injections slim the shoulder line and relieve muscle tension. Effects generally last 3–6 months, with duration tending to increase with repeated treatments.

Duration

Typically 10–20 minutes depending on the area. An additional 20–30 minutes may be needed if numbing cream is applied beforehand.

Recovery

Normal activities can be resumed immediately after treatment. Tiny red spots at the injection site may appear but disappear within a few hours. Avoid rubbing or pressing the treated area on the day of treatment, and refrain from saunas or intense exercise for 1–2 days.

Side Effects

Temporary bruising, swelling, and pain at the injection site are the most common side effects. Rarely, the toxin may spread to adjacent muscles causing eyelid drooping (ptosis), asymmetry, or unnatural expressions, but these typically resolve within 2–4 weeks. The treatment is contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women and patients with neuromuscular disorders. It is strongly recommended to receive treatment from a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Price Range

Varies by area and units used. Expression wrinkles (forehead, glabella, crow's feet) typically cost 30,000–100,000 KRW per area; jaw reduction 100,000–250,000 KRW; trapezius 150,000–300,000 KRW. Prices differ by product (imported vs. domestic).

Target Audience

Suitable for those bothered by expression wrinkles (forehead, glabella, crow's feet), those with a wide-looking face due to developed masseter muscles, those with broad shoulders from developed trapezius muscles, those with thick-looking calves from developed calf muscles, and those with hyperhidrosis of the hands, feet, or underarms.

ℹ️ Disclaimer

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Actual results, side effects, and pricing may vary. Please consult your doctor or the manufacturer for accurate information.

Corrections & inquiries: seoulclinicpick@gmail.com

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Overview

Mechanism

Effects

Duration

Recovery

Side Effects

Price Range

Target Audience

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