Botox injections｜Effects, duration, and risks of Botox injections for expression wrinkles and gills.
What are the benefits of Botox injections?"
Can you do something about those wrinkles on your forehead and at the corners of your eyes?"
Is it true that elabotox can make you look smaller?"
I want to do something about my sweating and odor problems."
Do you have these questions or concerns about Botox?
Hello. This is Aesthetic Dermatology and Smart Skin Clinic.
In this article, a cosmetic dermatologist who has performed more than 10,000 injections per year will carefully explain the effects and safety of Botox injections, the amount required for treatment, downtime, and the treatment process.
*If you have an idea of what you want to know in advance, you can skip to the table of contents below.
Chairman of Smart Skin Clinic Group
stone Kouta
career
Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine
Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and related facilities
Worked at a major beauty clinic in Tokyo
Affiliation / Qualifications
Japan Surgical Society Specialist
Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
What is Botox?
Botox refers to Botox Vista®, a type A botulinum toxin (botulinum toxin) preparation made by Allergan Inc. of the United States.The name "Botox" is trademarked by Allergan, though,Botox, including botulinum toxin type A preparations from other companies, is generally referred to as Botox.
Botulinum toxin type A preparations were originally developed for the medical treatment of eyelid spasms and strabismus, and Botox Vista® has been approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare for the treatment of expression lines between the eyebrows or at the corners of the eyes.
It is approved in more than 90 countries around the world, and its high safety has been confirmed through decades of use. Currently, it is also widely used off-label for the treatment of the forehead and the corners of the eyes.
What are expression wrinkles?
Wrinkles form when the skin folds with the movement of facial muscles, such as smiling or frowning.
Young skin is rich in collagen, elastic fibers, and moisture, which are the components that provide tension, so the marks of facial expressions return quickly. Aging and ultraviolet light can damage elastic fibers, making it more difficult for them to return.
Botox Ingredients and Mechanism of Action
Botulinum toxin type A is the main ingredient of Botox,A type of protein produced by botulinumIt is.
Some people feel uneasy when they hear the word "toxin," but only a very small amount is used in cosmetic medicine, and its action is limited to temporarily relaxing muscles. Therefore, as long as the recommended dosage is observed, there are no strong side effects on the entire body, and it is widely used throughout the world.
Mechanism of action of Botox
Botox is taken up by nerve endings.By temporarily stopping the "muscle movement signals," contractions and facial expressions are suppressed, making "expression lines" less noticeable.Because of the temporary action, after a few months the body's natural recovery will create new nerve connections and muscle movement will return again.
- Botox injection
- The injected Botox attaches to the nerve endings that move the muscles.
- Botox is taken into the nerves.
- Botox stops the release of neurotransmitters (acetylcholine) needed to send signals to the muscles
- Because signals are not transmitted, muscle contractions are reduced, making wrinkles and facial expressions less noticeable
- After a few months, the body's natural recovery process will create new nerve connections and the muscles will move again!
Botox Effects
Botox can improve some conditions that are expected to improve and others that are difficult to improve.
| Symptoms that can be improved with Botox | Symptoms that are difficult to improve with Botox |
| horizontal crease in the forehead furrow between the brows Wrinkles at the corners of the eyes Wrinkles under the eyes bunny line Vertical wrinkles around the mouth Dried plum wrinkles on the chin vertical wrinkles stiff shoulders hyperhidrosis | Lateral wrinkles under the eyes Wrinkles in the tear troughs Wrinkles between the nose and cheeks (nasal cheek sulcus) Scars along the cheekbones (zygomatic scars) Lines (nasolabial folds) Marionette lines extending down from the corners of the mouth |
Botox by properly inhibiting muscle movement,Effectively improves wrinkles and muscle bulges formed by repetitive contractions of facial muscles.
Deep wrinkles that are visible even at rest, sagging or textured skin, lack of volume, and symptoms due to fat drooping are not indicated. Sagging and deep furrows are better suited for hyaluronic acid or lifting treatments.
Areas that can be treated (indicated areas)
Lateral forehead wrinkles (frontalis muscle)
Forehead wrinkles form when the frontalis muscles contract during the action of raising the eyebrows or making a startled expression. As the skin loses elasticity with age, horizontal wrinkles become deeply etched.
Botox injected into the forehead improves the smoothness of the entire forehead, giving it a more youthful appearance.
In addition, the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A injections into the forehead,Significant reduction in wrinkles from 1 to 4 weeks, with continued effect at 16 weeks.No upper eyelid ptosis observed, good patient satisfactionThe following paper also reports on a study that found that it was
Wrinkles at the corner of the eyes (orbicularis oculi)
Fine wrinkles (crow's feet) radiating from the corners of the eyes are formed by contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscle when smiling. Deeper wrinkles at the corners of the eyes give the appearance of aging.
By not stopping the movement of facial expressions completely but leaving them in moderation,Maintain a youthful, natural smileIt is important to
Wrinkles between the eyebrows (wrinkled brow muscles)
Vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows tend to give a negative impression of being "angry" or "grumpy". These wrinkles are affected by the habit of the muscles that raise and lower the eyebrows.
Botox injections would improve these wrinkles,Calm and friendly expression on the faceChanges.
Bunny line (wrinkle at the base of the nose)
Bunny lines are fine wrinkles that form at the base of the nose when smiling, squinting, or crinkling the nose. They are called this because of their shape, which is reminiscent of a rabbit.
It may appear with loosening and sagging of the skin due to aging or Botox treatment of the frontal area, and may require simultaneous treatment of the surrounding muscles as well as the bunion line.
smiling face
A "gummy smile," in which the gums are excessively visible when smiling, is partly due to the strong action of the upper lip nasolabialis elevator muscle.
Botox injected in the appropriate areas can moderately inhibit the elevation of the upper lip and create a balanced smile.
wings of the nose
One of the reasons why the nostrils widen sideways when smiling and the nose appears more prominent is the development of the muscles that move the nostrils (the nasolabial aperturalis muscle). Injecting Botox into the nasolacrimal muscle relaxes the movement of the muscle and prevents the nostrils from expanding.
groove in the upper lip that runs from the bottom of the nose to the lip
Jinchu is the vertical groove between the nose and lips. If the jinchu appears long, it tends to give the impression of being short and aged.
Botox injected into the orbicularis oris muscle (the muscle around the mouth) lightly lifts the upper lip and gives it a three-dimensional appearance,The midriff appears shorter, leading to a smaller face and a more youthful impression.
corners of the mouth
If the muscles that lower the corners of the mouth (submucosa muscles) are overdeveloped compared to the muscles that raise the corners of the mouth (levator anisus muscles), the corners of the mouth will always appear downturned, giving the impression of a sullen appearance.
The corners of the mouth drop mainly due to loose facial muscles and mouth breathing.
Botox injections would cause the corners of the mouth to turn slightly upward,It can be improved to a soft expression.
Chin (dried plum wrinkles)
The bumpy "plumed wrinkle" that forms in the center of the jaw is formed by excessive contraction of the mussel muscle. Unintentional straining due to retraction of the mandible or improper occlusion causes bumps to form on the surface of the skin.
Botox injections smooth out bumps on the chin, give the chin tip a sharper shape, and enhance the profile line.
Gills (masseter muscle)
When the masseter muscle develops due to clenching or grinding of the teeth, the gills may be stretched and the lower half of the face may appear larger.
By moderately atrophying the masseter muscle with Botox,It can be expected to have a small face effect by refreshing the face line and profile line.Also,Reduce nighttime teeth grinding, back teeth wear and strain on the jaw joints, and improve morning jaw fatigueThe effects of the "I" and "II" are also shown in the following table.
Men may have more units due to greater muscle mass.
In addition, the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A injections into the masseter muscle,Atrophy appears 2-4 weeks after injection, with an average 31% reduction in muscle thickness measured by ultrasound at 3 monthsThe following paper also reports on a study that found that
Neck wrinkles (broad neck muscles/Botox lift)
Vertical neck wrinkles (platysma bands) form due to tension in the broad cervical muscles. Part of the broad cervical muscles pull down the corners of the mouth and lower face, leading not only to vertical neck wrinkles but also to facial sagging.
Botox not only improves vertical neck wrinkles, but also improves facial lines.
Shoulder (trapezius muscle)
Daily postures of forward head bending, such as working at a desk, using a smart phone, or hunching over, cause the trapezius muscles to stiffen and become raised.
When Botox is injected into the trapezius muscle,The reduction in the volume of the raised muscles helps to improve the curve from the neck to the shoulders, giving the appearance of a longer neck.
Armpit
Botox reduces sweat secretion from the sweat glands by inhibiting the transmission of information from the nerves to the sweat glands.
You may be thinking, "Why would sweat have anything to do with muscles?" You might think, "Why?" but this is because both the signaling to the muscles and to the sweat glands are acetylcholine.
It is particularly effective for those with severe armpit sweating that interferes with daily life.Treatments are given once or twice a season.
Note that hyperhidrosis is positioned as a skin disease and can be treated under insurance coverage if diagnostic criteria are met. In principle, cosmetic dermatology is not covered by insurance.
Hyperhidrosis is diagnosed when localized excessive sweating is observed for more than 6 months without any apparent cause, and two or more of the following six symptoms apply.
- The first symptom must be under 25 years of age.
- Symmetrical sweating.
- Sweating should cease during sleep.
- At least one episode of hyperhidrosis per week
- Family history must be seen.
- Interference with daily life due to them.
Difference from Skin Botox
While regular Botox injections are injected directly into the facial muscles, Skin Botox (MicroBotox) is a treatment that injects minute amounts into the shallow layers of the skin.
| (data) item | Normal Botox | skin Botox |
| Injection depth | intramuscular | Dermis to fascia surface |
| Injection volume | comparatively large | Trace amounts over a wide area |
| Main effects | Improvement of expression wrinkles | Skin texture improvement, pore and sebum control |
| Effect on facial expression | ant | minimum |
For more information about Skin Botox, please see the following articles
Required amount by site
The effect of Botox injections is expressed in "units (U)" as a common medical indicator.The "powdered formulation (U)" is typically injected diluted with a saline solution (cc).
| part | Approximate amount (U) required |
| forehead | 4-12 U |
| area between the eyebrows | 10-20 U |
| outer corner of the eye | 8-24 U |
| root of the nose | 4-8 U |
| bunny line | Around 6 U |
| wings of the nose | 5-12U |
| groove in the upper lip that runs from the bottom of the nose to the lip | Around 5 U |
| smiling face | 4-8 U |
| corners of the mouth | 4-10U |
| jaw | 8-16 U |
| Gills (masseter muscle) | 30-80 U |
| shoulder | 50 to 100 U |
| Armpit | 50 to 100 U |
| Botox Lift (broad cervical muscle) | 40 to 100U |
Although there are rough guidelines for the number of units, the actual number of units required varies from person to person and needs to be adjusted according to muscle mass, wrinkle depth, and treatment history. The initial treatment may be started with fewer units and adjusted according to the progress of the patient.
Since Botox works for 3 to 6 months once it takes effect, it would be safer to let it work for the first time with a small amount and add more if not enough, or increase the number of units (U) in subsequent sessions.
We will tailor the number of units and method of administration to each client's background and needs.
Who is recommended and who is not recommended for Botox?
| People for whom Botox is recommended | People for whom Botox is not recommended |
| Wrinkles on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and at the corners of the eyes Those whose expressions tend to look scary. Those who are concerned about gills and face size Those who suffer from sweaty armpits and sweaty hands Those who grind or clench their teeth Those who prefer scalpel-free treatment. Those who want to minimize downtime Must be able to perform regular maintenance. | Persons at risk for contraindications For those who have only deeply engraved wrinkles without facial expression (dermal wrinkles) Those with wrinkles mainly caused by sagging skin |
Duration of Botox effect and duration of Botox and frequency of treatment
- Time of effect: after 2-3 days, effect on masseter muscle may take around 1 month
- Peak effect: after 2-3 weeks
- Duration of effect: 3-6 months, not permanent
- Recommended treatment interval: every 3 to 6 months
Botox temporarily suppresses muscle movement by preventing the nerves from sending signals to the muscles to "move," but the effect is not permanent. However, the effect is not permanent. Muscle movement is restored step by step as the nerves regenerate. Therefore, as time passes, muscle movement gradually returns and the effect slowly diminishes.
Duration varies from person to person and depends on muscle strength and lifestyle (facial habits, smoking, UV rays, etc.).
Guidelines for considering the next treatment
- Expression lines that did not bother me before became more noticeable when I woke up in the morning
- Wrinkles when I smile or furrow my brow are slowly coming back.
- Muscle movement feels stronger.
Botox treatment is not a one-time event, but rather a regular, ongoing procedure that provides more consistent results. The ideal interval between treatments is approximately 4 to 6 months.It is recommended that the next treatment be performed when there is still 70-80% of the effect remaining, rather than re-striking after the effect has completely worn off.
By doing this,Excessive muscle movement is gradually suppressed and natural "muscle atrophy" (thinning phenomenon) occurs, resulting in longer-lasting effects.Another advantage is that the amount of drug required per injection can be reduced, so that a stable finish can be maintained with fewer injections.
If you feel that the effect is fading, you may consider it as a good time to consider the next treatment.
Botox injection pain
Botox injections do cause some needle pain, but it is not unbearable because of the use of a very fine needle. Tape or cream anesthesia may be used as an option, but in many casesNo anesthesia is required.
Cooling the affected area before injection and adjusting the speed of injection of the formulation can alleviate pain during the procedure.
Common Downtime Symptoms and Measures
- Symptoms: swelling, redness, and mild pain at the injection site
- Duration: several hours to several days
- Remedy: Cooling (pain, internal bleeding), makeup (redness, internal bleeding)
Needle irritation may cause mild swelling and temporary redness in and around the injection site, and mild pain may last for several hours. Cooling the affected area moderately may help relieve pain and prevent internal bleeding.
Internal bleeding is rare, but will gradually subside over a period of about two weeks. Redness and internal bleeding can be covered with foundation or concealer, and makeup can be applied the next morning.
Aftercare｜What you can do to enhance the effects of Botox treatment
Point]
- Avoid activities that promote blood circulation
- Moisturizing and UV protection
- Do not touch the area to be treated
- Be aware of how to use facial muscles
There are two reasons why the body should not be warmed up.
(1) blood flow may interfere with wound healing and (2) heat-sensitive botulinum toxin may denature and lose its effect.This is because there are
After injection, avoid touching the treated area as much as possible to avoid the risk of infection from the needle hole.
Skin with invisible scars has a weakened barrier function and is more susceptible to external stimuli. Dry skin is more susceptible to damage than usual, so be sure to keep your skin moisturized and protect it from UV rays and other external aggressors.
Botox not only temporarily suppresses excessive muscle movement, but also helps prevent future expression wrinkles by being aware of facial habits.
[What not to do in the next 24 hours
- strong facial expression
- strenuous exercise
- Prolonged bathing
- sauna
- excessive drinking
[To be avoided within 24 hours].
- strong facial expression
- Bathing *Shower is allowed.
- drinking alcohol (sake)
- Make-up of the injection site
[To be avoided for one week.
- Massage of the injection site
- Irritating skin care (retinol, hydroquinone, scrubs, etc.)
Risks, cautions and disadvantages
Unfortunately, there are zero risks, cautions, or disadvantages to Botox.
However,Botox is widely used worldwide, is safe, and the risks are very rare if taken in the right way.It is.
Allergic reaction/infection
Allergic reactions to drugs or needles may occur.
Intense swelling at the injection site, a generalized rash, or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.Treatment involves the administration of antiallergic drugs.
There is also a slight risk of infection as long as injections are given.See the doctor if there is swelling, heat, or increased pain.
Discomfort or headache
The surrounding muscles may be strained after the injection, causing light-headedness and lethargy for several days.
These are often temporary and improve over time.
Unexpected muscle effects
Botox is not limited to the injection site; the drug may spread slightly into the surrounding area. As a result, there are cases where movement in unexpected areas is affected.
However,The risk is considered very low if the appropriate dose and site are followed.
Production of neutralizing antibodies (Botox resistance)
When Botox is injected repeatedly over a short period of time or in large doses, the body can become "accustomed" to it and become less effective. This is medically known as "production of neutralizing antibodies (Botox tolerance).
To prevent the production of neutralizing antibodies,Limit dosage to no more than 200-300 units per dose and allow at least 3 months between doses.It is recommended that
Effect on chewing power
When Botox is injected into the gills (masseter muscle), the ability to chew may be temporarily weakened. However, this usually takes about a week to get used to and rarely interferes with daily life.
Site-specific risks
- Injection into forehead: Eyelid feels heavy (ptosis)
- Injections between the eyebrows: eyebrows raised (spock brow), eyebrow tail lowered, eyebrow shape changed.
- Injection into the outer corner of the eye: The eyelid appears to be outwardly turned or the tear trough appears smaller.
- Other: Asymmetrical finish on both sides
Unfortunately, there is no treatment that can immediately reverse these symptoms when they appear. However, the effects of Botox will eventually return to normal, as they naturally dissipate within 4-6 months. Both risks can also be avoided with proper injection by a physician who is familiar with the anatomy.
Contraindications/persons requiring caution
- Pregnant and lactating women: contraindicated because safety for the fetus and infant has not been established; contraception is required for 3 months after surgery
- Allergy to botulinum toxin: contraindicated in patients with a history of previous allergies
- Neuromuscular diseases: contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Lambert-Eaton syndrome
- Specific drugs taken: aminoglycoside antibiotics and muscle relaxants require caution
- Blood coagulation disorders: increased risk of bleeding
- Immunosuppressed state: need to consider risk of infection
- Infection/inflammation at the injection site: reduced treatment efficacy, risk of spreading infection
- Under 18 years: should be avoided because safety has not been established
For other details, please contact the clinic.
Advantages and disadvantages of Botox
| Advantages | Demerit |
| Treatment takes only a short time. Less pain during the treatment Little or no downtime | It takes time for the effect to appear. Effects are not permanent. Risks exist for each site (e.g., if it is the forehead, there is a risk of difficulty in opening the eyes). |
Combination with other treatments
Synergistic treatment
Botox is highly effective for "expression wrinkles caused by muscle movement," but it is not the only cause of wrinkles. However, wrinkles are not the only cause of wrinkles, as the deterioration of the texture of the skin itself and sagging due to aging are also often involved,Combined with other treatments, a more natural and comprehensive rejuvenation effect can be expected.
Photofacial
Special light (IPL) approaches spots, uneven coloration, and open pores, and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to improve the overall texture of the skin. Botox reduces "expression wrinkles" while at the same time "creating beautiful skin" with the device treatment, giving a more youthful impression.
volnema
Radiofrequency (RF) stimulates collagen production in the dermis layer, tightens the fat layer, restores firmness to the skin, and improves sagging skin. It is suitable for the treatment of deep wrinkles and laugh lines caused by sagging.
Jubeluk Volume (Renishna) Injection
This is a skin growth treatment using an injectable drug that combines non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid and polylactic acid (PDLLA). Compared to JUVELUX, the particles are larger and work deeper into the skin to increase its volume. The production of collagen and elastin is promoted, and it is effective for deep wrinkles such as the forehead and forehead lines.
GOURI Injection
PCL is a liquefied injectable formulation containing PCL (polycaprolactone) that is effective for lifting and improving sagging skin. PCL is used as a medical thread and is gradually broken down in the body to promote collagen production over time, tightening sagging areas. It can be applied to the forehead, eye area, cheeks, and mouth, and the results can be seen in a few days to a month.
Cautions for Combination Therapy
Botox can be combined with other treatments to achieve a highly synergistic effect, but the following points should be noted
- Need to adjust treatment intervals
In some cases, you may be able to receive multiple treatments at the same time, but in some cases, depending on the procedure, it may be better to allow several weeks between treatments. Be sure to consult your doctor. - The skill of the physician determines the finished product.
When combining multiple procedures, a doctor who can make a comprehensive assessment of the overall structure of the face and the progression of aging will lead to a natural, youthful result.
What happens if I keep getting Botox?
- Easier to maintain effectiveness
- New expression lines can be prevented.
When Botox is properly continued, the facial muscles atrophy moderately and fewer units are needed to maintain the effect. Inhibition of facial muscle movement can also prevent the formation of new wrinkles.
To avoid side effects and risks, follow the treatment intervals and the total number of units per year, and be careful not to overdose.
Types of Botox preparations
The two formulations available at Smart Skin Clinic are Botox Vista® and Botulax®.
Both can be fully effective when used appropriately, but they differ in their approval status and characteristics.
Our doctors listen to your concerns and wishes during a consultation and suggest the most appropriate formulation.
Botox Vista® (Allergan Inc. / USA)
It is the only formulation approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in Japan.
It has a long track record around the world,Highly reliable in safety and effectivenessIt is characterized by the following features. It is recommended for those who are undergoing treatment for the first time or for those who consider safety to be a top priority.
Reference:Botox Vista
Botulax (Hugel Company/Korea)
This formulation is approved by the MFDS (formerly KFDA) in South Korea and is unapproved in Japan.
It is considered a "generic-like formulation" developed based on Botox Vista®,Those who value cost-effectivenessThe company has been selected by the
Reference:Buegel Company
Other Preparations
In other countries, formulations such as Xeomin (manufactured by Merz, Germany) and Dysport (manufactured by Ipsen, England) are also used. However, they are not approved in Japan and are not currently available at our hospital.
What you can do to prevent Botox injections from failing
Botox is a safe treatment when used correctly, but it is important to work on your own to minimize the risks.
Choose an experienced physician.
The result of Botox injections varies greatly depending on the "position," "amount," and "depth" of the injections.
By placing the work in the hands of a physician with a thorough knowledge of anatomy and sufficient experience, unnatural facial expressions and left-right differences can be avoided.
Refer to case photos and reviews.
Receive careful counseling.
It is important to clearly communicate your ideals in advance, such as "where do you want to improve?" and "do you want to emphasize naturalness? If you and the doctor are not on the same page, there is an increased risk that the finished product will differ from your expectations. Make sure you are fully convinced during the counseling session before proceeding with the treatment.
Observe proper intervals and doses
Repeated treatments in a short period of time or larger doses than necessary increase the risk. Continuous treatment at 4-6 month intervals is generally recommended.
After-sales service
The way you spend your time after treatment will affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
It is important to avoid strong massage, alcohol consumption, and strenuous exercise immediately after the procedure. This prevents the risk of the drug spreading in unexpected directions or losing its effect.
Flow of treatment
You can easily make reservations with your mobile phone.
You can reserve a convenient date and time through our online reservation system or by phone. Both initial and follow-up appointments are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
This is a "smart" and easy receptionist service that can be completed immediately by the clinic's IT system by simply providing your name.
When you come to the clinic, simply tell us your name at the reception desk. First-time visitors will be asked to fill out a brief medical questionnaire.
Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have during the counseling session. Please be assured that there is no pushy sales.
After disinfection and marking, cooling is performed if necessary.
The number of units will be adjusted according to the desired area, and the injection will be carried out while talking to the patient.
Time required: approx. 10-15 minutes (depending on the site)
We will explain in detail about the care of the treated area and precautions for daily life.
We also offer appropriate home care from the perspective of prevention and maintenance, including oral medications and skin care cosmetics that can be expected to improve your problems.
After the procedure, you can immediately return to your daily activities. Makeup can be applied the next morning.
If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Botox painful?
-
Pain is minimal due to the use of a very fine needle.
In addition, to alleviate pain, we strive to create a relaxing environment by cooling the affected area before injection and adjusting the injection speed. - Will I see results immediately after treatment?
-
The effects of Botox begin to appear gradually from 2 to 3 days after injection, and although there are individual differences, most people experience satisfactory results within 2 weeks.
- How long is the downtime?
-
Swelling, redness, and mild pain at the injection site may occur for several hours to several days. It can be covered with makeup.
- Is Botox safe?
-
Botox has been used for medical purposes since the 1970s and was FDA-approved in 2002 for cosmetic use, making it a safe and well-established treatment.
- Are there any allergy concerns?
-
Serious allergic reactions to Botox are extremely rare. However, patients who have developed allergies to Botox in the past may not use it.
- Does the expression look unnatural?
-
Based on correct anatomical knowledge, injecting the right amount in the right area can effectively improve wrinkles while maintaining a natural look. Choose a clinic you can trust.
- Can men be treated?
-
Both men and women can be treated. Men have more muscle mass and may require more units than women.
- Are there any restrictions on life after treatment?
-
Basically, there are no major restrictions on daily life. However, in order to maximize efficacy and prevent side effects, please follow such precautions as "avoiding activities that raise body temperature" and "avoiding excessive touching of the affected area.
- How often do I need treatment?
-
Although individual results may vary depending on muscle mass and lifestyle, a 4 to 6 month interval is recommended. 3 months or more is recommended.
- Can it be combined with other cosmetic treatments?
-
Treatment combinations and treatment intervals can be discussed in detail during the consultation.
Examples of treatments that can be used in combination: hyaluronic acid injections (treatment of deep wrinkles), photofacial (skin texture improvement), thread lift (sagging skin improvement), Skin Botox (skin texture improvement)
Examples of combinations to avoid: other botulinum toxin products at the same time, and procedures that promote blood circulation on the same day.
About the fee structure for Botox
Some people may find Botox prices confusing.
Unlike other procedures, we hear people say that they do not know what it costs or what the unit (U) stands for. The following is an explanation of the main fee structure for Botox.
Comparison of main fee structures
The fee structure for Botox injections varies from clinic to clinic. Two typical types are "per unit" and "per area.
| rate structure | feature | Advantages | important point |
| Per Unit | Rates are based on the number of units used. | Can be adjusted according to muscle strength and symptoms Drug quantities are clear and easy to compare | Total amount varies greatly depending on the number of credits required Total amount must be confirmed before treatment. |
| by parts (e.g. of the body) | Fees are set for each treatment area, such as "forehead," "between the eyebrows," "corner of the eyes," etc. | Easy to understand and reliable Less worry about additional fees. Discounts for multiple sites may be available. | Flat fee regardless of the number of credits required ・May be more expensive for those with minor illnesses |
In general, Botox dosage is indicated in "Units (U: Units)" rather than in ml or cc.
In principle, our clinic adopts a fee structure for each part of the body. Because the fees are clearly presented, it is easy to understand the total amount before treatment, and even first-time patients can receive the treatment with peace of mind.
Major Factors Affecting Rates
- Type of formulation used
- Characteristics of the treatment area
- Clinic Policies and Environment
By these factors,Prices vary for the same part of the body.There are times when the cost of a treatment is higher than the cost of a drug. For example, MHLW-approved drugs tend to be more expensive because of their proven safety, and masseter muscle (gills) and hyperhidrosis treatments require a larger number of units due to their extensive use. In addition, the experience of the physician and the nature of the aftercare are also usually reflected in the price.
Smart Skin Clinic Fees
It is different from "cc" or "ml".
Units (U)."is a common medical indicator in botulinum toxin in all clinics.
| Contents | made in Korea | (Price per site) | Made by Allergan PREMIUM | (Price per site) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 part | 11,800 yen | 11,800 yen | 14,800 yen | 14,800 yen |
| two parts | 18,400 yen | 9,200 yen | 26,400 yen | 13,200 yen |
| 3 sites | 25,500 yen | 8,500 yen | 37,500 yen | 12,500 yen |
| 1 additional site (after 4th site) | - | 7,600 yen / part | - | 11,800 yen / part |
| Part / Capacity | made in Korea | Made by Allergan PREMIUM |
|---|---|---|
| Gills (masseter muscle) 40U | 14,800 yen | 26,600 yen |
| Gills (masseter muscle) 80U | 28,800 yen | 49,400 yen |
| Botox Lift (broad cervical muscles) 40U | 34,800 yen | 46,600 yen |
| Shoulder 50U | 19,800 yen | 33,800 yen |
| Shoulder 100U | 38,800 yen | 63,800 yen |
| 100U for armpit | 29,800 yen | 52,800 yen |
| armpit 200U | 57,800 yen | 98,000 yen |
More Information
| (data) item | Contents |
| Treatment Time | 5-15 minutes (not including counseling) |
| Recommended number and frequency of treatments | Recommended intervals of approximately 3 to 6 months |
| Down time | A few hours to a few days |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | Possible |
| Make | Recommended after the next morning to prevent infection. |
| Skin care | Possible immediately after the treatment |
| Shower | Possible from the same day |
| Pain | There is a stinging pain when the needle is inserted. |
*There are individual differences.
Legal description
Botox injections include treatments using drugs that are not approved in Japan. The drugs used in the treatment have been imported on a private label basis at the discretion of our physicians.
Please refer to this page for information on medicines, etc. that should be noted for personal importation.
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Medicines, etc. that Require Caution in Personal Importation".
Smart Skin Clinic for Botox injections
Botox injections are a treatment that can be used for a wide range of effects, from improving expression lines and gills to treating hyperhidrosis. With continued use, more effective and lasting results can be expected, as well as the prevention of new expression lines.
Smart Skin Clinic offers a choice of Botox injections: Botox Vista®, approved by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, or Botulax®, which is highly cost-effective. We clearly present our prices, and we also offer discounts for simultaneous treatment of multiple areas and for repeat patients.
If you have any questions or concerns about Botox injections, please feel free to contact us for a free consultation.
Reference and Citation
The Japanese Dermatological Association
Clinic List
Jimbocho Institute
〒101-0054
EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception), 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 7F
Business hours: Monday-Friday 11:00-20:00 / Saturday and Sunday 10:00-19:00
Yokohama Institute of Technology
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Bldg. 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Business hours: 10:00-19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a physician supervised by Smart Skin Clinic.
This page was revised and enacted in June 2018. Medical Advertising Guidelines We produce and provide information based on
- Scope of supervision: treatment description, risks and side effects, price labeling
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025