How It Works

Injectables are made up of purified proteins. that can be used to relax active muscles which cause facial wrinkles. It is essentially a painless, non-surgical procedure, which is used for reversing ag-related changes to the face and neck by smoothing deep, persistent wrinkles. Repeated muscular contractions such as frowning and squinting form lines known as dynamic wrinkles. It works by relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, giving the face a more relaxed and refreshed appearance. Physicians that are trained in advanced techniques can alter the shape of areas on the neck and face including changing: the arch an eyebrow, nose length, the curl of the lips, and the shape of the eyes, in addition to treating neck bands.

Maximum results usually take effect between 5-7 days post-treatment. The procedure is so simple and quick that patients can often have it done during their lunch hour. Wrinkle Reduction is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world and is used by women and men who want to take control of their appearance and look as good as they feel.

The medication is diluted for different strengths. The amount used for in each application is measured in volume of millilitre (ml) units so the correct terminology is to refer to units rather than dosage. Patients often find it both beneficial and educational to ask their attending physician how many units will be required for a particular treatment or how much was used for a completed treatment rather than asking what the dose was for a treatment. Dr. Bakken always informs the patient as to how many units she will be using or has used during treatments.

What is a Wrinkle Reduction Injectable/ Muscle Relaxant?

It is an injectable treatment derived from a purified protein. It is manufactured under strict quality control standards and is administered in extremely dilute dosages by a licensed medical professional.

How are they used?

A tiny amount is injected into the muscle that creates the dynamic wrinkle (frown or squint lines). When it is injected into a muscle, it blocks the nerve impulse from reaching that area, and as a result, the muscle relaxes. As the muscle relaxes, the dynamic wrinkle overlaying the muscle is smoothed away.

Will I get a fake, frozen look?

Not if you are treated by an experienced doctor who will be able to determine the right dose and injection technique for you. The treatment only relaxes the muscle beneath the frown line at the injection site, so the other elements of facial expression remain active. It also has no effect on the sensory nerves, so you will have normal feeling in the treated areas.

If I stop treatments, will my wrinkles get worse?

No, in fact, quite the opposite holds true. Your muscles will have relaxed after treatments and you would have learned to use other muscles with your facial expressions. In most cases the dynamic wrinkle continues to be less severe long after your initial treatments.

Are treatments safe?

Yes! Wrinkle reduction injectables have been licensed in Canada since 1990 as a safe and effective treatment for a number of disorders caused by overactive muscles, including in children as young as 2 years old to treat cerebral palsy. In 2001, Health Canada approved them for wrinkle therapy and it has been proven to be very safe through extensive research and testing. In the amounts used for wrinkle therapy, the most common side effects, such as bruising, are temporary and localized to the area of injection.

Is this treatment for everyone?

There are very few restrictions regarding  treatments. Patients who are pregnant nursing, or some individuals with neurological diseases should not be treated. Patients should discuss with their physician if muscle relaxing drug treatments are appropriate for them.

What is the treatment like?

A tiny amount is injected, very precisely, into the muscles being treated. Because the needle is so fine and only a small amount of liquid is used, the pain associated with the injections is minimal. Most patients compare the sensation with a bug bite. No sedation or local anesthetic is required, and you can resume normal activities immediately. You can even drive yourself home or back to the office. Some patients experience a slight temporary bruising at the injection site which can be easily covered with make-up.

The average female patient requires approximately 33-37 units for a frown area. Crow’s Feet require approximately 24-30 units (includes both sides). Therapeutic Injectables cost can vary; Migraine treatment is covered by Alberta Health Care for the physician costs, other treatments are often covered by private insurance. Treatments can vary in price from clinic to clinic in Alberta. As with most products or services it is always in your best interest to comparison shop.

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