Muscle Relaxant Injections are also called Neuromodulators because they are derived from a bacterial toxin which has the capacity to relax muscles when injected into the target muscles. The injections can be placed in any muscle in the Face or Body depending on why we want the muscles to be relaxed.

IN THE FACE

The most common muscles where these injections are given are those in the face to soften the wrinkles and lines.

Most common areas in the face where Muscle Relaxants are used are:

• The Frown Lines between the eyes
• Crows Feet – Lines on the sides of the eyes
• Forehead Lines
• Around the Eyebrows to reshape the brows or lift the eyebrows
• Lines above the Upper Lips (Smoker’s Lines) or even if you don’t smoke
• Dimpling in the Chin
• Gummy Smile

IN THE BODY

Muscle Relaxant injections are also used for treating several medical conditions. Common ones are Hyperhydrosis (Excessive Sweating) in the Arm Pits, Palms and Soles. Very effective in the treatment of Migraine.

• Other Medical Conditions are the following:Back Pain from Muscular Spasms
• Irritable Bladder to reduce Urinary Frequency
• Involuntary Tics or Spasms around the eye muscles
• Involuntary Teeth Grinding or Pain in the TMJ
• Reducing over-developed jaw muscles
• Reducing the size of Calf Muscles
• Relaxing Tight Muscles in Cerebral Palsy
• Reducing spasms in the anus from Anal Fistulas

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE THE INJECTIONS?

Generally, each treatment should last about 3-4 months. The secret to long lasting results is regular maintenance. Every 4 months is recommended. The longest interval between treatments should be 6 months.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I HAVE EACH TIME?

What’s given to you is measured in Units. Each muscle in the Face and Body needs different number of units to keep it relaxed. The purpose of the injections is to keep the muscles relaxed NOT TO PARALYZE them. When too little is given you may not see any results and if you see some results they may not last as long as they should. When too much is given the muscles are paralyzed and you will get no movements resulting in a fixed look or worst still you increase the risk of complications like droopy eyelids etc.

The right amount varies from person to person. What is the perfect dose for one person is not necessarily perfect for the next. The right amount given is the one that gives you a natural look whether you are smiling or not smiling.

HOW LONG SHOULD I CONTINUE?

As long as you want to look good. Will my lines look worse when I stop using Muscle Relaxants? No. All the lines you ever had will all return when you stop.

HOW MANY BRANDS OF MUSCLE RELAXANTS ARE THERE?

In Australia we have 3 brands of Muscle Relaxants approved by the TGA. In the world there are more than a dozen brands. Then there are the Fakes. (also available in Australia) They are not interchangeable. Whatever brand you are given it is advisable to stay on the same brand rather than have one brand this time and another brand the next time. So always check with your practitioner which brand you are getting and it is also useful to know how many units you are being given each time so the information can be passed on to the next practitioner if you are in the habit of changing from one to another.

The Regulatory Authorities do not allow doctors to display or divulge the names of these products in our websites or use them in advertising.

However, when you have your treatment in The Ashbrooke Cosmetic Surgery we will always inform you of the brand we are using and the number of units you are given

IS IT SAFE?

This is commonly asked. The short answer is Yes if the product used is one that is approved by the TGA and if given to you by an experienced qualified Medical Practitioner (or Nurse Practitioner) who has undergone the proper training in the use of the product. The correct dose ensures good result and less side effects.