Botox®, Botox® Cosmetic and Letybo™

Approved for cosmetic use in Canada more than 20 years ago, neuromodulators are what many people first think of when they consider professional treatment for their fine lines and wrinkles.

These intramuscular injections of purified botulinum toxin block certain chemical signals from a nerve to the muscle it attaches to, causing the muscle to relax and gradually smoothing the appearance of the overlying skin.

While Dr. Hermant has been administering Botox Cosmetic since 2005, she is pleased to now also offer Letybo at the clinic. Although Letybo is new to Canada, it is the number-one botulinum toxin in South Korea, where it’s been available for several years.

For both product lines, Dr. Hermant will consult with you to discuss your goals and determine the amount of neuromodulator to use, with the treatment itself usually taking between 15 to 25 minutes. A tiny amount of the purified protein is injected with a fine needle into the targeted muscle and any discomfort should be minimal. You should be able to immediately return to your daily activities. Results usually appear within one week and last four to six months.

Beyond their ability to refresh the look of your complexion, neuromodulators can also be used to treat hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm sweating). Most patients notice a significant reduction in sweating in the treated area within four weeks, and effects can last nine months to a year. Many insurance companies cover the cost of neuromodulator treatments related to hyperhidrosis.

Contact the clinic for more information and to book a consultation.

FAQ

  • While both have become synonymous with wrinkle reduction, they work differently and are used for different issues.

    Neuromodulators reduce fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing the underlying facial muscles while fillers, as the name suggests, fill in wrinkles. Dr. Hermant says a general rule is that neuromodulators are used to treat the upper part of the face while fillers are most often used in the lower part. Another guideline is that neuromodulators are used for lines of expression, while fillers treat deep lines that are visible even when facial muscles are at rest. They also help to volumize and lift the face.

  • Four to six months.

  • Moderate-to-severe frown lines, crow’s-feet lines, forehead lines, downturning of the mouth, dimpling of the chin, neck lines and slimming of the lower face (masseter muscles).

  • Dr. Hermant believes any cosmetic treatment should “keep you looking like you.” Before the treatment she will discuss what your goals are to determine the number of units to inject along with their placement.

  • Between 15 to 25 minutes.

  • There may be a slight stinging but it is generally well tolerated.

  • To minimize the risk of bruising, for three to five days prior to treatment, avoid taking aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Advil or Aleve®, and fish oils; and refrain from drinking green tea or alcohol.

  • Post procedure, avoid rubbing the treated area for four hours. Don’t lie down for four hours and avoid strenuous exercise for the remainder of the day after your treatment. Wear a high-protection broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Dr. Hermant may advise further precautions.

  • Most patients are able to immediately return to their daily activities. Some may experience minor bruising at the injection site, which can easily be covered with makeup.