Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections
Learn how botulinum toxin injections can soften expression lines and support a refreshed, natural appearance. Dr Marc Gabrielli explains treatment, safety and aftercare in Dubai.
What are botulinum toxin injections?
Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a non-surgical medical treatment used mainly to soften expression lines. It temporarily reduces communication between targeted nerves and muscles, relaxing repetitive facial movements while preserving a natural expression.
Botulinum toxin injections
At a glance
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Visible: 2–3 days
Maintenance: 3–6 months
Optimal result: 7–14 days
How does botulinum toxin work?
Botox temporarily reduces nerve signals to selected muscles by inhibiting acetylcholine release. Relaxing repetitive muscle movement can soften expression lines while preserving a natural appearance.
When may Botox be considered?
Botulinum toxin may be used for forehead lines, frown lines and crow’s feet. Medical indications can include excessive sweating, jaw tension, chronic migraine or muscle spasm, but require appropriate medical assessment.
Personalised treatment
The dose and injection points depend on your anatomy, goals and medical history. A qualified practitioner will explain benefits, alternatives and limitations.
Benefits of botulinum toxin
Botox is non-surgical, usually takes 10–20 minutes and involves little downtime. Initial effects may appear after 2–3 days, with the full result assessed at 7–14 days. Results are temporary, typically lasting 3–6 months.
It can soften forehead, frown and eye lines while maintaining facial movement. It may also help selected medical conditions such as migraine, excessive sweating and muscle spasm after proper assessment.
What happens during a session?
- Consultation: We discuss goals, medical history, medicines and contraindications.
- Planning: The face and target muscles are assessed and injection points are selected.
- Injection: A fine needle delivers small, precise doses; the appointment usually lasts 10–20 minutes.
- Aftercare: Normal activities can usually resume immediately. Avoid rubbing the area and follow the clinic’s advice.
- Review: Results are assessed at 7–14 days and future maintenance is discussed if appropriate.
Side effects and safety
Botulinum toxin is generally well tolerated when administered by a qualified practitioner, but no medical treatment is risk-free. Temporary redness, tenderness, bruising, swelling or headache may occur.
Uncommon effects can include temporary eyelid or brow drooping, asymmetry or unwanted weakness if product affects a nearby muscle. Allergic reactions are rare. Seek medical help for breathing, swallowing or vision problems.
Follow aftercare advice, do not massage treated areas and contact the clinic if symptoms are unusual or worsening.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information only and does not replace an in-person consultation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Results vary between patients.
