The models are ready, the injectables prepared: The botulinum hands-on training in Zurich can begin. The lecturer and supervisor: Lia Georgouli, Medical Director of the Swiss Derma Clinic and Key Opinion Leader for Allergan. Her approach: every wrinkle is individual and every treatment must take this into account. The small training group of doctors focused on what really counts in practice: the direct transfer of knowledge and implementation using various practical examples.
Practical training with botulinum for doctors
The evening started with the most important input: the basics of botulinum treatment, dosages, the correct injection points and the special features depending on the skin type. The theory was just the prelude. Immediately afterwards, the participants themselves took on the role of practitioners. Under the supervision of Lia Georgouli, classic botulinum applications were practiced – or rather „perfected“:
One of the most important principles at the Swiss Derma Clinic is that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The condition of the skin, the facial expressions, the individual wrinkles – all this influences the technique and the dosage of the active ingredient. In the case of a brow lift with botulinum, it is also tested in advance whether the individual requirements are met.
Botulinum: the most important facts
First of all, botulinum, or more correctly botulinum toxin A, is a drug that has been used for a long time. Experience has been gained over many decades and the active ingredient is generally considered to be very safe. Even in long-term use. Botulinum blocks or reduces the signal transmission between nerve and muscle. The muscle relaxes and wrinkles are gently smoothed out. Expression lines in particular, such as the famous frown lines on the forehead, can be successfully treated in this way. And if you start using it early, you can prevent the formation of pronounced wrinkles to a certain extent.
Application of bunny lines to the chewing muscles
The training also discussed and tried out lesser-known applications for which botulinum treatment is predestined.
Bunny lines: Fine wrinkles on the sides of the nose that appear when laughing or talking.
Gummy smile: Term for visibly large gums when smiling, which can be compensated for with botulinum.
Dimples on the chin: Small bumps caused by active chin muscles can be smoothed out with botulinum.
Chewing muscles (masseter): muscles that are overly pronounced due to grinding or clenching or individual facial expressions can be relaxed with fine injections of botulinum. This makes functional sense, the facial muscles are less tense and visually interesting: the jawline becomes slimmer.
Botulinum: the right technique and experience are important
Botulinum is a versatile tool, but its use requires experience. The dose, the injection angle and precise knowledge of the anatomy of the fine facial muscles determine the result – and of course medical safety. The training therefore also focused on the exchange and ability to critically examine the application options again and again.
Conclusion of the training in Zurich
Botulinum opens up far more possibilities than just smoothing classic forehead wrinkles. In the hands of experienced doctors, the active ingredient becomes a tool that smoothes wrinkles in fine doses, evens out proportions and can even alleviate functional complaints. The botulinum course at the Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich once again made it clear how the patient’s individual ideas and anatomy have to fit together to achieve the ideal result.
Would you like to know more about the treatment options with botulinum? Then arrange your individual consultation here at the Swiss Derma Clinic in Zurich.
FAQ
Which wrinkles can be treated with botulinum?
Botulinum is well suited for wrinkles caused by facial expressions such as frown lines, forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet. A gentle lifting of the eyebrows (brow lift) is also possible, provided the anatomical requirements are met. Other areas of application include
- Bunny lines (fine wrinkles in the nose area)
- Gummy smile (visible gums when smiling)
- Slight dimpling of the chin (if there is a connection with muscle tension)
- Strongly developed chewing muscles
How long does the effect last?
The result lasts for around three to six months. Muscle activity increases again over time and the treatment can be refreshed as required.
Does botulinum work immediately?
The full effect can be seen after around seven to fourteen days. However, initial improvements in wrinkle depth are possible after just a few days.
Is the treatment painful or associated with downtime?
Botulinum injections are generally well tolerated and only take a few minutes. You can return to social life immediately afterwards. Minor redness or localized swelling around the injection sites are possible – these usually subside very quickly and can be covered with make-up.
