Neuromodulators
Neuromodulators (like Brands Botox & Dysport)
Neuromodulator injections, among the most popular treatments at Midwest Laser Centre, effectively prevent and smooth facial wrinkles caused by dynamic facial movement.Neuromodulators are a purified neurotoxin produced using the clostridium botulinum bacterium. They block nerve signals to muscles (by blocking the release of acetylcholine from the nerve), causing the muscle to relax. In cosmetic treatments, this muscle relaxation smooths fine lines and wrinkles on the skin’s surface that are caused by repetitive muscle movements. Neuromodulators (Botox and Dysport) used in both cosmetic and medical treatments are tiny molecules sterilized in a lab to prevent botulism (a nervous system disorder caused by infection with the clostridium bacteria). When carefully diluted and injected by qualified medical professionals, neuromodulators are extremely safe and create desired results within two weeks, with effects lasting three to four months on average. Regular follow-up treatments are required to maintain results.
In cosmetic medicine, neuromodulators such as Botox or Dysport are the gold standard treatment for smoothing facial wrinkles and reducing the appearance of lines caused by the dynamic movement of facial muscles over time. At Midwest Laser Centre, we use Neuromodulators for cosmetic treatments including:Frown lines (11’s)Forehead linesCrows' feetBrow liftLip flipLines under the eyes and “jelly rolls”Nose wrinkles or “bunny lines”Nose flaring or slimming“Gummy" smileDimpling of the chinTurning the frown upside down (DAO’s or the Depressor Angularis Oris Muscles)Facial slimming (slimming a square jaw by treating masseter muscles)“Nefertiti lift” (Platysma muscle and band treatment to lift jowls and define the jawline)Neckline slimming (by treating trapezius muscles)Improving overall skin quality and treating certain skin conditions such as rosacea.
Midwest Laser Centre also provides the following medical treatments using neuromodulators:Migraine headacheHyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of axilla, scalp, palms and soles)TMJ (Temporal Mandibular Jaw) dysfunction and Bruxism (jaw clenching).
If you are interested in cosmetic neuromodulator treatment, a free consultation at Midwest Laser Centre with a qualified physician or nurse injector is required. The consultative process includes addressing your area(s) of concern, reviewing medical history, explaining the procedure, expected results, potential side effects and risks, and ensuring there are no contraindications for treatment.Neuromodulator injections are performed using an extremely thin needle and are very well tolerated. You may feel a mild pinch or burning sensation during injections. If you have any concerns about receiving injections, please discuss them with your injector, as there are ways to minimize discomfort for sensitive individuals.Effects can be seen within a few days but take two weeks to fully materialize. During this interval, you may notice asymmetry or unevenness in the treated areas; this settles as the neuromodulator takes full effect. Treatment effects typically last three to four months, although in some individuals effects may be briefer or longer.After neuromodulator injections, you should remain upright (no lying down) and avoid any activity that increases your core body temperature, such as exercise, sauna, hot bath, or steam shower. Do not rub or massage treatment areas for 24 hours.There are no known permanent side effects of neuromodulators used in cosmetic doses. Known side effects of neuromodulators are temporary and include but are not limited to:Localized burning or stinging with injectionSwelling and/or rednessSmall risk of bruisingTenderness or numbnessVasovagal episode (fainting) is rareHeadache (uncommon, typically mild and may last a few days)Facial asymmetryInadequate reduction of wrinkles or poor aesthetic resultWeakening of muscles adjacent to treatment areaExtremely rare – hypersensitivity reaction /allergic response
Although uncommon, treatment of the forehead or wrinkles around the eyes may result in blepharoptosis (droopy eyelid), eyebrow ptosis (droopy eyebrow), photophobia (light sensitivity), impaired eyelid closure, or worsening eye bags.Although uncommon, treatment for wrinkles around the mouth or lower face may result in lip ptosis with resultant smile asymmetry, oral incompetence (drooling, impaired speaking, eating, or drinking), hoarseness, or neck weakness.Serious but rare side effects have been reported when the neuromodulator has spread beyond the injection site. These effects are more likely when counterfeit products are used or when administered by unlicensed individuals in non-healthcare settings:Trouble breathing or swallowingGeneralized muscle weaknessBlurred or double vision
Contraindications for neuromodulators include:Pregnancy and breastfeedingAllergy to botulinum toxin or other ingredientsNeuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis or ALSHistory of difficulty breathing or swallowingActive skin infections at injection sites
Other medical considerations that should be discussed thoroughly before neuromodulator use:Use of medications such as blood thinners or muscle relaxantsFacial muscle weakness (for example, active Bell’s palsy is a contraindication, but in cases of long-term unresolved muscle weakness, neuromodulators may be used by experienced providers to balance facial asymmetries)Careful consideration is important for individuals who require facial expression/animation for their profession (such as an actor, broadcaster, or musician)
Your Pre & Post Care.
Common Questions
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There is no defined “best” age to start treatment with neuromodulators. Individual goals and factors such as skin type, genetics, those that tend to have strong frequent facial expressions (such as frowning), and lifestyle (smoking, frequent sun exposure, stress) can affect the age at which neuromodulators can be used to treat or prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
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Some individuals may choose to use neuromodulators prior to having static or etched lines on the face, or in cases of a strong family history of early skin aging.
Many patients choose to start treatment in their 20’s or early 30’s for prevention.
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Neuromodulator effects typically last 3-4 months in most cases. There are some factors that may influence duration. Some factors influence duration such as:
o Dosage
o Treatment area – the effect may wear off sooner in some muscles (orbicularis oculis (crow’s feet) and orbicularis oris (lip flip)
o Individual physiology – muscle activity and metabolism vary between individuals
o Lifestyle – people who are more expressive or more physically active may find results wear off faster
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The body’s natural metabolic processes and enzymes break down the neuromodulator protein complex into amino acids which are absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted by the kidneys as waste. When the neuromodulator is broken down, nerve signals can once again reach the muscles to cause contraction.
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The neuromodulator takes a few hours to settle into targeted muscles. When your body temperature increases, blood vessels near the skin surface dilate to allow heat to dissipate. This could cause the neuromodulator to move to other muscle groups such as the eyelid, causing an unwanted drooping, or ptosis.
It is also recommended to not lay down, bend over, or massage the treated areas to prevent the neuromodulator from affecting muscles nearby the targeted areas of treatment.
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Treatment effects cannot be reversed but always wear off completely.
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If you have any unwanted side effects, it is best to wait the full two weeks before seeking assistance as it is normal to see some asymmetry as the neuromodulator takes full effect.
If you do notice asymmetry, brow heaviness, or drooping please book in for follow up between 2-3 weeks after your injections. In many cases, assessment and further management may help resolve these side effects.
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Neuromodulator treatment can certainly achieve a nice lift for eyes with mild hooding, if administered by an experienced practitioner. It can be injected in a specific way to exert a lifting effect on the eyebrow and eyelid.
However, if the hooding is more severe, and especially if it is affecting your vision, surgical removal of the excess skin may be beneficial.
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Your injector will provide an initial free consultation. The cost is $10 per unit plus GST.

