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Module 1, Course B - A Practical Guide To Botulinum Toxin Type A - The Scientific Art of Softening Lines and Wrinkles 2
Module 1, Course B - A Practical Guide To Botulinum Toxin Type A - The Scientific Art of Softening Lines and Wrinkles 2
Advancement of Aesthetics
Module: Botulinum Toxin Type A
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg 2013;39:510-525. 2. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment.
Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 2
Patient Assessment:
the Initial Consultation
An effective initial consultation should include the following key steps:
Your patient’s treatment goals
DISCUSS • Ensure patient expectations are in balance with realistic aesthetic outcomes
• Identify patients who may not be suitable candidates for treatment
Facial anatomy, including patterns of aging, skin elasticity, surface landmarks, muscle distribution and mass
ASSESS • Obtain the patient’s medical history and identify any contraindications or previous treatments
Your patients about the planned treatment and provide them with detailed information
INFORM • Include potential adverse events, contraindications, and precautions specific to the indication
• Address any questions and alleviate anxieties
The treatment and identify the muscles(s) to be treated
PLAN • Decide on the quantities of BoNT/A to be injected into the individual muscles
• Take into account any pre-existing asymmetry or natural ptosis
Patient information and the agreed treatment plan
DOCUMENT • Use patient photography and visual scales to record baseline status
• Obtain patient’s informed consent (in writing)
3
Patient Assessment:
Tips for Successful Patient Consultations
► Discussions should be clearly recorded in patients’ notes, including
the information and advice provided and how patients responded.
► You should provide patients with written information to take away
and read, and encourage them to ask questions.
► Once a patient has consented to treatment, include photographs in
the patient’s notes so it is clear what treatment is to be performed.
4
Patient Assessment:
Individualized Treatment
► The aesthetic treatment plan and the extent to which BoNT/A can
provide benefit is dependent on:1
► Physiological factors: patient lifestyle and genetics yield a unique aging
presentation
► Patient preference: the concept of aging and beauty is unique to each
patient
► You must be prepared to recognize and respond to these influences
by developing a treatment plan that is both tailored to your patient’s
aesthetic goals and realistic with respect to aesthetic outcome.
6
Patient Assessment:
Key Points for Documentation
► It is important to document the planned treatment.
You can use an indication-specific treatment record form.
► Here are the key points to document in your patient’s
treatment record:
► Patient information and medical history, including any previous
treatments and their effects
► Patient goals, severity and type of lines, any asymmetry or natural
ptosis, skin type, and general skin health
► Discussion of product selection and alternative cosmetic procedures
► ‘Before’ and ‘after’ photographs
► The muscles to be treated (marked on the patient’s picture in the treatment record form)
► The quantities of BoNT/A to be injected into the individual muscles
► The timing of follow-up visits
7
Patient Assessment:
Facial Anatomy
► Pretreatment assessment should include careful evaluation of your patient’s
facial anatomy.1
► For example when treating the upper face with BoNT/A, it is important to
evaluate your patient at rest and during animation to assess:
► Dynamic and static lines
► Position and mobility of brows, eyelid function, presence of excess skin
► Volume loss in the upper face
► Potential asymmetries
Nerad JA. Techniques in Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery: A Personal Tutorial. London; Elsevier: 2012. 12
Regional Diagnostic Tests:
The Eyelid Distraction Test
► This is performed by pulling the lower
eyelid away from the eyeball.
► The eyelid is considered to be lax if it
moves more than 6 mm off the
eyeball.1
1. Nerad JA. Techniques in Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery: A Personal Tutorial. London; Elsevier: 2012. 2. Carruthers J et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2004;114(Suppl):1-22.
Figure from Yoon JM, Kim SA, Roh JH. J Korean Ophthalmol Soc. 2008;49(12):1877-1887. 13
Essential Equipment and Supplies
It is essential that you have the basic equipment necessary for the administration
of BoNT/A in your practice, including the following:
1. Vial of BoNT/A
2. Alcohol or antiseptic wipes
3. 30G needles for injection
4. Vial of sterile, physiological saline (0.9% NaCl)
for reconstitution of BoNT/A
5. Syringe with 25G needle for reconstitution of BoNT/A
6. Syringes for administering BoNT/A eg, 1-mL syringes
7. Gauze pads
8. Ice pack or frozen gel packs for anaesthesia
9. Topical anesthetic cream
14
Emergency Equipment
► Every practitioner should also have emergency equipment on hand in the
treatment room.
► For allergic/anaphylactic reactions, the emergency bag should contain:1
1. Intravenous (IV) antihistamines
2. IV steroids
3. Adrenaline
► Products must be checked regularly to ensure that they are within their
expiry dates.
► Oxygen should also be available in the clinic.
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 15
Preparing Your Equipment for Use
► Close attention to antisepsis is vital to lower the risk of infection and
related AEs during the injection procedure.
Clean work environment1
• Keep work surfaces clean and tidy
• Use disinfectant wipes between patient visits
• Discard used materials immediately after a procedure
• If using cold packs, ensure they are cleaned with antiseptic wipes and wrapped in gauze awaiting use
Clean equipment1
• Use a single-use dressing pack for each patient
• Keep syringes, needles, and other equipment in a clean area before and during treatment
• Use ‘no touch” technique at all times, restricting any contact to clean zones
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 16
Correct Reconstitution and Mixing
of BoNT/As: Overview
► To help avoid suboptimal clinical outcomes by injecting incorrect
doses, it is importnt that the preparation is reconstituted and mixed
correctly.
► Each BoNT/A product needs to be reconstituted differently, as
outlined in the manufacturer’s guidelines.
► For all BoNT/A products, reconstitution should be performed in
accordance with good practice rules, particularly with respect to
asepsis.1-3
1. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 2. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 3. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 17
Correct Reconstitution and Mixing:
IncobotulinumtoxinA
► 50 U incobotulinumtoxinA is reconstituted for injection in 1.25 mL of 0.9% preservative-free NaCl.
► Once reconstituted, the vial contains a solution at a concentration of 4 U per 0.1 mL.
► The vial should be discarded if the vacuum does not pull the solvent into the vial.
► Once reconstituted, incobotulinumtoxinA is a clear, colourless solution, free of particulate matter.
► If the reconstituted solution has a cloudy appearance or contains floccular or particulate matter,
the vial should not be used.
► Any solution for injection that has been stored for more than 24 hours, as well as any unused
solution for injection, must be discarded.
DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX: Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 19
Correct Reconstitution and Mixing:
OnabotulinumtoxinA
► 50 U onabotulinumtoxinA is reconstituted for injection in 1.25 mL of 0.9%
preservative-free NaCl.
► Once reconstituted, the vial contains a solution at a concentration of
4 U per 0.1 mL.
► The central part of the vial’s rubber cap should be cleaned with alcohol
before the solution is added.
► The solution should then be injected slowly into the vial and gently rotated
to avoid bubble formation.
► The vial should be discarded if the vacuum does not pull solvent into the vial.
► The solution should be inspected before use to ensure that it is colourless
to slightly yellow, with no particles.
1. Hexsel D et al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2010;9(Suppl 3):31-37. 2. Kane M et al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2010;9(Suppl 1):7-22. 3. Alam M et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006;55:272-275.
4. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 5. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 6. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 21
Storage and Safe Disposal of BoNT/As
► Itis important to have a good understanding of how to store and
appropriately dispose of any unused BoNT/A product.
► Historically, recommendations stated that reconstituted BoNT/A
should be used within 24 hours and in a single patient.
► A recent consensus panel concluded that, for facial muscle
indications, a vial of toxin reconstituted appropriately:
► Can be refrigerated or refrozen for at least 4 weeks before injection without
significant risk of contamination or decreased effectiveness1
► Can be used to treat multiple patients, assuming appropriate handling1
XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 23
Safe Disposal: AbobotulinumtoxinA
► Once reconstituted, abobotulinumtoxinA can be stored at 2°–8°C for
4 hours but, from a microbiological point of view, the product should
be used immediately.
► Any unused, reconstituted abobotulinumtoxinA in the vial or syringe
should be inactivated with 2 mL of 0.5% or 1% sodium hypochlorite
solution.
► Used vials, syringes and materials should not be emptied and must
be discarded into appropriate containers and disposed of in
accordance with local requirements.
3. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX: Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 24
Safe Disposal: OnabotulinumtoxinA
► Once reconstituted, onabotulinumtoxinA can be stored at 2°–8°C for
24 hours, but immediate use is recommended.
► Immediately after use (and prior to disposal) any unused,
reconstituted solution in the vial and/or syringe must be inactivated
with 2 mL of 0.5% or 1% sodium hypochlorite solution and then
disposed of in accordance with local requirements.
1. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 2. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 3. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 26
What to Do in Case of Skin Contact
► For incobotulinumtoxinA, wash the affected area with a solution of
sodium hydroxide or sodium hydrochlorite then rinse abundantly
with water.
► If the product makes contact with a wound or open skin, rinse with plenty of
water and take appropriate medical steps according to the dose injected.1
► For abobotulinumtoxinA or onabotulinumtoxinA, wash with a
solution of sodium hypochlorite and then rinse thoroughly with
plenty of water.2,3
1. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 2. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 3. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 27
What to Do in Case of Eye
Contact or Vial Breakage
► Eye contact
► IfBoNT/A comes into contact with the eyes, rinse with plenty of water or
with an ophthalmic eyewash solution.1-3
► Vial breakage
► If a vial breaks, collect the pieces of glass (taking care not to cut the skin) and
wipe up the product as described earlier.1-3
1. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 2. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 3. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 28
Preparing the Face for BoNT/A Injections
► Before treating your patient with BoNT/A, you should first review your patient’s
notes to check for previous local or systemic infection.
► When you are ready to proceed, thoroughly clean your hands, the area of
injection, and the surrounding skin.
Clean your hands1
• Position the patient and lighting before cleaning hands
• Disinfect your hands prior to using clean gloves
• Do not touch surfaces, lights, non-clean areas before starting treatment and during procedure
30
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines with BoNT/A:
Overview
►A sound knowledge of injection techniques, as well as facial
anatomy, is essential to optimize benefits and minimize
complications when using BoNT/A in aesthetic procedures.1
33
Glabellar Frown Lines:
Locating the Corrugator Supercilii
► When treating glabellar frown lines it is
important to locate the corrugator supercilii
muscle, both by visualisation and palpation.
► The muscle is found at the medial end of the
eyebrow, just above the orbicularis oculi muscle,
and it inserts into the underside of the frontalis
(4.2–4.5 mm from the midline).
► The body of the corrugator supercilii muscle is
deep to the frontalis muscle, becoming more
superficial at its tail.
► Depth of injection needs to be tailored
accordingly and the corrugator muscle located
by palpation along its entire length.
35
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines with
BoNT/A: Injection Technique
Main target • Corrugator supercilii (mainly vertical furrow between brows)
muscles • Procerus (mainly horizontal furrow at the root of the nose)
Location of • Corrugator supercilii (mainly vertical furrow between brows)
injections • First injection site: medial portion of the muscle, near its origin, at least 1 cm above the bony orbital rim
• Second injection site (optional): in line with the midpupilary line above the eyebrow
• Procerus (mainly horizontal furrow at root of the nose)
• Middle of the muscle belly, found by drawing a line between the medial aspect of the brow to the medial
canthus of the opposite eye
• Expert tip: mark these injection sites (including the potential danger zones) using a soft eyebrow pencil
Recommended • Use a sterile needle, 30–33G (0.3–0.2 mm diameter), 13 mm length
needle
Injection depth • Intramuscular for medial portion of corrugator muscle and intradermal or subdermal for central or tail portion
• The tip of the needle, bevel up, should be directed outside the orbital rim and inserted 4–5 mm to reach the
periosteum and then retracted back 1–2 mm
• Intradermal or subdermal for procerus muscle
Recommended • IncobotulinumtoxinA/onabotulinumtoxinA: 20 units per treatment session, divided into 5 equal injections
standard of 4 units each
dose1-4 • AbobotulinumtoxinA: 50 units per treatment session, divided into 5 equal injections
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015.
3. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA: Allergan; 2016. 3. DYSPORT [highlights of prescribing information]. Fort Worth, TX:
Galderma Laboratories, LP; 2016. 36
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines with
BoNT/A: Safety Considerations
• In general, to prevent brow ptosis, avoid injecting laterally past the mid-pupillary line
• However, this should be decided based on the individual patient, as in some cases there will be
corrugator activity lateral to the mid-pupillary line
• In these patients, injections past the mid-pupillary line will be required and should be very superficial
• Ask your patient to contract their corrugator muscles as this will allow you to identify their precise position.
Injecting at the correct depth will avoid recruitment of the frontalis muscle.
• Avoid injecting too high (>1 cm above the orbital rim), as this can block the action of the frontalis
• To avoid lid ptosis and diplopia, do not inject the levator palpebrae superioris, into the cranial portion of the
orbicularis oculi or within the bony orbital rim
• The levator palpebrae superioris muscle can be avoided by injecting above the supraorbital ridge found at
the boundary between the forehead and upper eyelid
• Protect the supraorbital rim with the non-dominant hand
• Direct the needle away from the orbit to minimize the risk of adverse effects
37
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines with
BoNT/A: Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating for glabellar
frown lines can be expected
► For example, a patient with severe glabellar lines at maximum frown
(a rating of 3) could expect an improvement to mild glabellar lines at
maximum frown (a rating of 1)
Figures reprinted with permission from Flynn TC et al. Dermtol Surg. 2012;38:309-319. 38
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines Mephisto eyebrow
40
Softening Glabellar Frown Lines with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After Before After
41
Softening Lateral Periorbital Lines with
BoNT/A: Injection Points
► Skin wrinkling in the lower eyelid results from the hyperkinetic behaviour of the
palpebral portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle.
► The lateral portions of the orbicularis oculi are targeted when treating lateral
periorbital lines with BoNT/A.
Orbicularis oris
42
Softening Lateral Periorbital Lines with
BoNT/A: Injection Technique
Target muscle • Orbicularis oris
Location of • The first injection should be ≈1 cm lateral from the bony orbital rim (in the prolongation of the lateral
injections epicanthus); the other 2 injections should be placed ≈1 cm above and below the first injection point
along an arc ≈1 cm from the bony rim
1. XEOMIN [highlights of prescribing information]. Raleigh NC: Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC; 2015. 2. BOTOX Cosmetic [highlights of prescribing information]. Irvine, CA:
Allergan; 2016. 3. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 43
Softening Lateral Periorbital Lines with
BoNT/A: Safety Considerations
• Inject with caution in patients with dry eyes, prominent eye bags, scleral show, or morning eyelid edema
• To avoid spread of toxin and subsequent diplopia, the lateral orbital rim should be protected using the non-
dominant hand
• To avoid lip ptosis, do not inject near the zygomaticus major muscle, which can be avoided by remaining
above the orbicularis oculi muscle and injecting very small doses intradermally, approximately 1–1.5 cm
from the orbital rim
• Where possible, avoid injection into veins in the lateral canthus; these veins may be revealed under
appropriate lighting and magnification
• Keep injections superficial and direct the needle away from the orbit to minimize risk of adverse effects
• Consider the extrusion pressure used during injection – inject slowly to reduce the risk of botulinum toxin
spreading; this can also help prevent diplopia (double vision) when the lateral rectus muscle is affected and
eyelid ptosis when the levator palpebrae superioris muscle is reached
44
Softening Lateral Periorbital Lines with
BoNT/A: Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating for assessing
crows feet can be expected
► For example, a patient with very severe wrinkles at maximum smile (a rating
of 4) could expect an improvement to moderate wrinkles at maximum smile
(a rating of 2)
Figures reprinted with permission from Flynn TC et al. Dermtol Surg. 2012;38:309-319. 45
Softening Lateral Periorbital Lines with
BoNT/A: Expert Tips
► Injecting along an arc 1 cm from the lateral and inferior orbital rim
mitigates the risk of intraorbital diffusion and inadvertent lid ptosis,
and also preserves natural expressions.
► In Whites, the orbicularis oculi muscle has been found to extend
≈1.4 cm superior, 1.2 cm inferior and 2.5 cm lateral to the orbital rim.
► In White men, the muscle extends significantly further superiorly and
laterally than in women.1
► Anatomical variations in the orbicularis oculi also exist between
individuals.
Before After
48
Softening Periorbital Lines with BoNT/A:
Treatment Guidelines
► The consensus guidelines for treatment of periorbital lines by
Carruthers and colleagues are particularly relevant1
► The infraorbital crease can be treated with neuromodulators,
providing the patient shows a good response in a ‘snap test’ used to
measure lower skin laxity.
► Treating the lower eyelids is not for the novice injector, due to the delicacy of
this area.
Location of • The most lateral injection sites should be 1–1.5 cm lateral to the temporal fusion line (usually in line
injections with the lateral canthal line)
• Place 4–6 injections across the midline or upper third of the forehead
Recommended • IncobotulinumtoxinA/onabotulinumtoxinA
standard dose • 5–15 units total dose, divided among 4–10 injection points;1 however, up to 20 units may be
needed in some patients
• Also, to preserve eyebrow movement, lower initial doses are advisable (2–6 units)
• AbobotulinumtoxinA
• 20–60 units total dose, divided among 4–6 injection points1
• Expert tip: inject into brow depressors to avoid brow ptosis when treating brow elevators
• Care should be taken to avoid blood vessels to reduce the risk of bruising and bleeding
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 52
Softening Horizontal Forehead Lines
with BoNT/A: Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating for forehead
lines can be expected.
► For example, a patient with moderate lines with expression (a rating of 2)
could expect an improvement to no lines with expression (a rating of 0)
Figures reprinted with permission from Flynn TC et al. Dermtol Surg. 2012;38:309-319. 53
Softening Horizontal Forehead Lines
with BoNT/A: Expert Tips
► Lateral
recruitment of the frontalis can lead to ‘Mephisto’ or ‘Spock’
eyebrow.
► The risk of this occurring can be minimized by keeping the most lateral
injection sites 1–1.5 cm lateral to the temporal fusion line.
► The temporal fusion line is usually found in line with the lateral canthus.
► You can locate the temporal fusion line by asking the patient to clench their
jaw and then palpating the temple area.
► Intradermal microinjections are effective for treating any small lines
above the lateral eyebrow.
54
Softening Horizontal Forehead Lines
with BoNT/A: Interactive Question
► From the video, what is the minimum distance above the eyebrow
that a full dose of BoNT/A should be injected?
Please select an answer from the list below:
A. 1 cm
B. 1.2 cm
C. 1.5 cm
D. 2.2 cm
E. 2.5 cm
► Submit answer
55
Softening Horizontal Forehead Lines with
BoNT/A: ‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
56
Lateral Eyebrow Elevation with BoNT/A:
Injection Points
► The ideal shape of the eyebrow has been described as having the crest of the arch over
the lateral canthus.
► With age, the shape and vertical position of the eyebrow changes as the muscles weaken.
► BoNT/As can be used to lift the lateral eyebrow but it is important to tailor treatment
based on each patient’s facial shape.
57
Lateral Eyebrow Elevation with BoNT/A:
Injection Technique
Target muscle • Upper lateral part of orbicularis oculi
Location of • A single injection into the upper lateral fibres of the orbicularis oculi, ≈0.5 cm above the orbital rim in
injections line with the lateral canthus
Recommended • IncobotulinumtoxinA/onabotulinumtoxinA
standard dose1 • 3–7 units under the tail of the eyebrow, plus inactivation of central depressors
• AbobotulinumtoxinA
• 5–10 units under the tail of the eyebrow
59
Lateral Eyebrow Elevation with BoNT/A:
Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating can be expected
► For example, a patient with flat arch to the eyebrow (a rating of 3) could
expect an improvement to a medium arch (a rating of 1)
Figures reprinted with permission from Flynn TC et al. Dermtol Surg. 2012;38:309-319. 60
Lateral Eyebrow Elevation with BoNT/A:
Expert Tips
► Good lighting and stretching the skin may help you avoid blood vessels and
minimize the risk of bleeding and bruising.
► These complications are common because the periorbital skin is thin and contains numerous
blood vessels.
► In practice, injection of the lateral orbicularis oculi under the tail of the eyebrow
to give a lateral brow lift is commonly combined with treatment of the glabellar
frown lines.1,2
► Other techniques used for eyebrow positioning and shaping have been
described; these are advanced techniques.3
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment.
London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 3. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R. Foster City,
CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 61
Lateral Eyebrow Elevation with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
62
Softening Nasal Rhytides with BoNT/A:
Overview
► Several muscles are responsible for the production of nasal wrinkles.1
► In particular, nasal wrinkles are associated with contraction of the levator labii superioris alaequae nasi
and the transverse portion of the nasalis muscle.
► The levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, a thin muscle lateral to the nose, runs between the
inner margin of the orbit and upper lip and contributes to movement of the upper lip and ala of
the nose.
► The transverse portion of the nasalis muscle arises from the nasal bone, runs inferolaterally
across the bridge of the nose and inserts bilaterally into the skin above the nasal ala.1
► The levator labii superioris muscle and the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle are
responsible for the ‘gummy smile’, an excessive gum line exposure with a full smile where the
gingiva above the canines can be seen.2
► This can be treated by targeting these muscles to drop the upper lip.
► Care must be taken to not weaken the zygomaticus major muscle by injecting too laterally over the
malar mound.
1. Tamura BM et al. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31:271-275. 2. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R.
Foster City, CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 63
Softening Nasal Rhytides with BoNT/A:
Classifications
Nasal wrinkles have been classified into 4 types according to the
anatomic differences that exist between individuals.1
Location of • Nasalis, 1 per side; occasionally an additional, single injection point on the bridge
injections of the nose may be required
Injection depth • Intramuscular
1. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R. Foster City, CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 66
Softening Nasal Rhytides with BoNT/A:
Expert Tips
► When treating this area it is important to avoid the levator labii superioris, as
chemodenervation of this muscle will cause elongation (and possibly drooping)
of the upper lip.
► For the same reason, activity of the levator labii superioris alaequae nasi should
not be fully obliterated.
► To avoid chemodenervation of the levator labii superioris, draw an imaginary
line from the middle of the nasal side wall and ensure injection points are kept
superior to this line.
► This will avoid injection into the insertion point of the levator labii superioris.
► The medial branches of the angular artery and the dorsal nasal artery are
located at the top of the nose and should also be avoided to reduce the risk of
ecchymosis or hematoma.1
1. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R. Foster City, CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 67
Softening Nasal Rhytides with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
68
Softening Perioral Lines with BoNT/A:
Injection Points
► The orbicularis oris may be injected to smooth out perioral lines.
► However, great care must be taken to avoid overdosing as this can lead to a
raised or drooped lip, or asymmetry.1
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 69
Softening Perioral Lines with BoNT/A:
Injection Technique
Target muscle • Orbicularis oris
Recommended • IncobotulinumtoxinA/onabotulinumtoxinA
standard dose1 • 4–6 units total dose, divided across 2–6 injection points
• AbobotulinumtoxinA
• Upper lip: 5–15 units total dose, divided across 2 or 4 injection points
• Lower lip: 5–15 units total dose, divided across 2 injection points
► Weakening of the orbicularis oris muscle by treating the vermilion border results in slight
eversion of the upper lip. This may produce the appearance of fuller lips.2
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R.
Foster City, CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 70
Softening Perioral Lines with BoNT/A:
Safety Considerations
• Consider how the juxtaposing muscles work together to move the mouth; unbalanced dosing or
asymmetrical injection can lead to loss of the ability to purse the lips and an asymmetrical smile1
• Avoid injecting around the oral commissures and keep injection points 1 cm medial to the oral commissures
• Botulinum toxin type A may spread to, and weaken, the lateral lip elevator muscles; this can result in lip
ptosis and drooling
• Injecting the midline should also be avoided to prevent effacement of Cupid’s bow1
1. Bistoni G, Figus A. Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Eds. Giuseppe C, Antonio R. Foster City, CA; OMICS Group eBooks: 2014. 71
Softening Perioral Lines with BoNT/A:
Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating can be
expected
► For example, a patient with very severe wrinkles (a rating of 4) could expect
an improvement to moderate wrinkles (a rating of 2)
72
Softening Perioral Lines with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
73
Softening Marionette Lines with BoNT/A:
Overview
► Overactivity of the depressor anguli oris (DAO) can contribute to the appearance of
indentations in the corners of the mouth and lines extending from the corners of the mouth
down to the chin (so called ‘marionette lines’).1
► Treatment with BoNT/A may be useful in weakening the DAO, thus allowing the zygomaticus
major and levator anguli oris muscles to lift the corners of the mouth back to a horizontal
plane, which may improve the appearance of ‘marionette lines.’
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 74
Softening Marionette Lines with BoNT/A:
Injection Technique
Target muscle • Depressor anguli oris (DAO)
► It is important to target the most lateral part of the DAO muscle. Precise injection is very
important to ensure symmetry.
► You can check whether the needle is intramuscular by asking your patient to contract the DAO
muscle. You should feel a pull on the needle.
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 76
Softening Marionette Lines with BoNT/A:
Expected Results
►A 2-point change in the Merz Aesthetics Scales rating can be
expected
► For example, a patient with severe lines (a rating of 3) could expect an
improvement to mild lines (a rating of 1)
77
Softening Marionette Lines with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
78
Treating Cobblestone Chin with BoNT/A:
Overview
► Repeated contraction of the mentalis can result in ‘orange peel’-like indentations
or ‘cobblestone chin’.
► It is important to take into account the strength of the muscle and tailor the dose
accordingly.
79
Treating Cobblestone Chin with BoNT/A:
Injection Technique
Target muscle • Mentalis
Location of • 2 symmetrical injection sites approximately 1 cm from the midline, or a single site in the
injections midline
Recommended • Use a sterile needle, 30–33G (0.3–0.2 mm diameter), 13 mm length
needle
Injection depth • Intramuscular
Recommended • IncobotulinumtoxinA/onabotulinumtoxinA
standard dose • 2–5 units per side,1 although doses as low as 2 units may be sufficient2
• AbobotulinumtoxinA
• 5–25 units total dose, distributed across 1–2 injection sites1
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment.
London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 80
Treating Cobblestone Chin with BoNT/A:
Safety Considerations and Expected Results
• It is important to avoid injecting too laterally into the depressor labii inferioris to prevent an asymmetrical
smile
• The ‘V’ shape of the muscle should be considered to ensure the injection is within the muscle, and (if
injecting centrally) that spread of toxin occurs to both sides
• If injection is administered too far cranially, lip ptosis may occur by diffusion into the orbicularis oris
• Intramuscular injection just above the periosteum and inferior to the chin crease will avoid undesired oral
incompetence and problems with articulation
• These problems may result from weakening of the orbicularis oris and depressor labii inferioris
► Expected results
► A moderate improvement in the dimples of the chin
81
Treating Cobblestone Chin with BoNT/A:
Expert Tip
► Depending on the strength of the muscle, it is possible to treat the mentalis in
both the superficial and deep layers using 4 injection sites.
82
Treating Cobblestone Chin with BoNT/A:
‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
83
Treating Masseteric Hypertrophy with
BoNT/A: Overview
► Treatment of the masseter is an established paradigm in Asia where
patients have a tendency for benign masseteric hypertrophy.
► Asian patients may have a larger masseter mass and this may
influence the number of injection sites and dosing.1,2
► Chewing and excessive grinding of the teeth may result in
reactionary masseteric hypertrophy.
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014.
2. Kim NH et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2005;115:919-930. 84
Treating Masseteric Hypertrophy with
BoNT/A: Injection Technique
Target muscle • Masseter
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014.
2. Carruthers J et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2008;121(Suppl):5S-30S. 85
Treating Masseteric Hypertrophy with BoNT/A:
Safety Considerations and Expected Results
• Asymmetric smile can be caused by the diffusion of BoNT/A into the risorius muscle, which is superficially
attached to the anterior part of the masseter muscle1
• Deep intramuscular injection can help avoid diffusion of botulinum toxin type A into the risorius
• Injecting too high into the masseter can result in diffusion of toxin into the zygomaticus, which may result in
drooping of the lip
• Repeated, high-dose injections over several years can result in chronic muscular atrophy
► Expected results
► Bilateral injection of the masseter muscles can decrease their prominence
and produce tapering of the lower face
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. London: Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 86
Treating Masseteric Hypertrophy with
BoNT/A: Expert Tip
► Locate the masseter muscle by asking
the patient to clench their jaw.
► Draw a line from lip corner to ear tragus
(superior border) and keep injections
below this line.
► Injections should be 1 cm away from
every border. Identify area
of maximum
thickness
87
Treating Masseteric Hypertrophy with
BoNT/A: ‘Before’ and ‘After’ Photographs
Before After
88
Aftercare
► Patient aftercare is a vital part of ensuring a successful treatment outcome for
you and your patient.
► When BoNT/A is used to treat periorbital lines, the duration of effect is usually
less than that observed in other areas of the upper face, generally lasting up to
3 months.1
► It is important to make your patient aware of what to expect after treatment.
90
Aftercare:
Recommendations to Speed Patient Recovery
► You may wish to apply a cold compress to soothe the area and reduce posttreatment swelling
► Do not lie down for approximately 4 hours after the injection
► Use creams containing vitamin K or arnica on treated areas to help bruises fade more quickly
► Wash the area gently every day
► Should you have any reactions that cause you concern, or any worsening of symptoms, you
should contact your clinician
► Remember to provide your patients with contact details in case they have any concerns
► Do not massage, scrub, or rub the treated area after treatment
► Try not to wear make-up or touch the treated area unnecessarily after treatment
► Try not to drink alcohol as this can increase the risk of bruising
► Try not to exercise strenuously after treatment to allow treatment effects to settle
► Do not use a sauna or steam room, and stay out of strong sun after treatment
Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 91
Follow-up Visits and Repeat Treatments
► To assess response to initial treatment, there is general consensus
that 2 weeks is appropriate for patient follow-up.1
► The follow-up visit provides you with the opportunity to see if the
patient has responded well to their treatment and to check for any
signs of complications, such as infection.
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment.
Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 94
Common Mistakes and How
to Avoid Them (continued)
Unwanted Effect Cause(s) How to Avoid/Manage
Drooping eyelids or • BoNT/A injected into the corrugator • A careful injection strategy is essential for
eyebrows/eyelid ptosis superciliary muscle (or rarely avoiding lid ptosis; injections in the glabella
(blepharoptosis)a orbicularis oculi muscle) may diffuse region should be kept at least 1 cm above the
bony orbital rim and should not cross the
into the levator palpabrae superioris
mid-pupillary line
muscle responsible for eye opening • Iopidine 5 mg/mL eye drops may improve
ptosis1
Drooping of the • BoNT/A penetrates the zygomaticus • Inject very small doses intradermally,
corner of the mouth major muscle ≈1–1.5 cm from the orbital rim to avoid
the zygomaticus major
Lower lip • Inaccurate BoNT/A placement into • This effect can be treated by injecting
asymmetry the depressor labii inferioris when neurotoxin into the contralateral
treating the depressor anguli oris or depressor labii inferioris
the mentalis, or inadequate initial
patient assessment
aTrue ptosis is a rate event
1. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment. Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 95
Common Mistakes and How
to Avoid Them: Expert Tips
► To avoid making these common mistakes, follow the top tips below:
► Make a treatment plan and adhere to it
► Know your anatomy and the danger zones to avoid when injecting
► Read the treatment guidelines, know the treatment guidelines, follow the
treatment guidelines
► Ensure your injection experience is sufficient for the procedure
96
The Scientific Art of Softening Lines and
Wrinkles: Summary
You should now have an understanding of the following:
► The importance of careful patient assessment before injecting BoNT/A and why it is an essential part of
the consultation process1
► The key steps to creating an individualized and realistic treatment plan designed to achieve the patient’s
aesthetic goals, including discussion of product selection, dosing, placement of injections, and timing of
follow-up visits2
► The basic equipment necessary for BoNT/A treatment
► Aseptic techniques when preparing equipment and the patient for treatment, and why these techniques
are vital to lower the risk of infection and related AEs2
► The specific reconstitution techniques for each of the BoNT/A products
► Injection techniques and appropriate guidelines relevant to the use of BoNT/A and why these are
essential to optimize benefits and minimize complications1,2
► Patient aftercare and why it is a vital part of ensuring a successful treatment outcome for you and your
patient
► The most common mistakes that occur with BoNT/A treatment, how they relate to injection strategy,
and how they can be managed or avoided1,2
1. Carruthers J et al. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39:510-525. 2. Inglefield C et al. Expert Consensus on Complications of Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Filler Treatment.
Aesthetic Medicine Expert Group: 2014. 97