The toxin in aesthetic medicine have truly revolutionised the field. What started as a solution for crow’s feet and frown lines has expanded into innovative applications across various facial areas.
Nowadays, they are used to enhance the nose tip, redefine the neckline, and even tackle excessive sweating. Thanks to advancements in techniques and knowledge, toxins now offer versatile, non-surgical enhancements that are reshaping modern aesthetics.
AMI Editor Shriyal Sethumadhavan chats with Dr Geeta Patel, Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, Zahra Skin Clinic on the recent AM MedTalk Instagram live. Dr Geeta shares insights on the evolving role of toxins in aesthetic medicine.
What are the most common applications of toxins in aesthetic medicine?
I have been using toxins for the past 20 years, and their applications have evolved greatly. Initially, we focused on basic indications such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. These three remain the most basic applications for toxins.
However, over these 20 years, the field has seen significant advancements and new indications, which I believe you want to explore.
Let’s dive into the real applications and newer uses of toxins. How are toxins being used for enhancements in areas like the nose and neckline?
As a dermatologist, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of anatomy. Incorrect injection can affect unintended muscles, and the effects are not reversible like with fillers.
If you are unhappy with a filler, you can dissolve it, but with toxins, you must wait for the effects to wear off, which can take about four to six months. Thus, it is essential to master anatomy before starting injections.
How can toxins be used to enhance areas such as the nose and neckline? Let’s start with the nose and then move to the neckline.
For the nose, toxins can address various issues. For instance, some people have flare-ups of the nostrils that are uncomfortable, and toxins can help by relaxing the muscles that cause this.
Another application is for the nasal tip. When the tip droops, injecting toxins into the depressor muscles can cause an upward lift of the nasal tip, providing a nice profile. This procedure is slightly painful but only for a few seconds.
The neck is now one of my favourite areas to treat. For years, we focused on the face while neglecting the neck, which can reveal age due to its thin skin. Now, we emphasise treating the neck as well. Toxins can effectively address platysmal bands, which pull the face downward.
Injecting toxins here can enhance jawline definition and smooth the neck. We also use toxins for the Nefertiti Lift, which defines the jawline and smooths the neck, giving a long, slim appearance.
Additionally, there is a procedure known as Barbie tox, where toxins are injected into the trapezius muscle to achieve a slimmer neck. However, this procedure can be overused and lead to issues such as dysmorphia, so it should be approached with caution.
You mentioned the jawline earlier. Can toxins also help define the jawline?
Yes, toxins can help slim the face and define the jawline. This trend started in Southeast Asia, where people with broader lower faces, due to bulky masseter muscle, sought a slimmer look. By injecting toxins into the masseter muscle, we can achieve a slimmer face.
This technique, known as non-surgical contouring or slimming of the face, also enhances jawline definition and contributes to a more refined appearance.
Are there any benefits of using toxins for treating conditions like excessive sweating?
Absolutely. Toxins are effective for treating hyperhidrosis, which is excessive sweating in areas like the underarms, palms, and soles. This condition can be very distressing for patients as it limits their clothing options and causes embarrassment.
Toxins can be injected into these areas after conducting a starch iodine test to determine the exact amount needed. This treatment can help reduce excessive sweating and improve the patient’s quality of life.
How about correcting a gummy smile? Can toxins help with that?
Yes, toxins can help correct a gummy smile. When injected into the muscles around the lips, they can reduce the visibility of the gums when the patient smiles.
This treatment is effective and lasts for about two to three months. Most patients are satisfied with the results, which can be more favourable compared to other methods.
We have covered many applications of toxins. Are there any risks associated with these newer applications that doctors and patients should be aware of?
Generally, the upper face applications are quite safe when following proper guidelines. However, in the lower face, where there are many small and superficial muscles, there can be risks. For instance, injecting too much toxin can cause unintended side effects like a drooping brow or an uneven smile.
When treating the masseter muscle, improper technique can lead to asymmetrical smiles. It’s crucial to be precise and cautious, especially in the lower face. Despite these risks, when performed correctly, toxin treatments can yield beautiful, gratifying results.
How do you build trust with patients who may be unfamiliar with or hesitant about newer toxin applications?
Convincing patients can be challenging because the media often highlights only the negative outcomes of treatments. While positive results, such as those seen in celebrities, are less frequently discussed, negative results are widely shared.
It is important to educate patients about the benefits and safety of well-administered toxin treatments. Emphasising that toxins can delay ageing and improve dynamic lines can help patients understand the value of the treatment.
Addressing their concerns and explaining the process clearly can build trust and confidence.
How do you decide whether toxins are the right choice for a particular patient?
The choice to use toxins depends on the patient’s specific concerns and desired results. For patients with dynamic lines or expressions that cause discomfort, toxins can be highly effective.
If a patient wants to improve their appearance or address specific concerns, toxins might be the best option. Properly explaining how toxins can address their issues and integrating them into a comprehensive treatment plan helps in making the right choice.
For more expert insights into the world of aesthetics, join AM MedTalk every Sunday at 11 AM, only on Instagram @aestheticmedindia.
If you missed joining us live, we have got you covered. Click here for the video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C99Ks0zJDWp/