Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins are substances that affect the nervous system and muscular skeletal system  function by interfering with the transmission of nerve signals. In cosmetic medicine, neurotoxins are commonly used to relax muscles and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Neurotoxins work by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract. By inhibiting muscle contraction, neurotoxins temporarily relax the muscles, smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines in the overlying skin.

The effects of neurotoxin injections typically last between three to four months, although individual results may vary. Repeat treatments are necessary to maintain the desired results over time.

Discomfort during neurotoxin injections is usually minimal and brief. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a pinching sensation at the injection site, but this can often be minimized with the use of a topical numbing cream or ice.

Common side effects of neurotoxin injections may include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites. Rarely, patients may experience headache, drooping eyelids, or other adverse reactions, which should be reported to the healthcare provider.

There is minimal downtime associated with neurotoxin injections. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment, although it’s advisable to avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sun exposure for a few hours.

Good candidates for neurotoxin injections are generally healthy adults who wish to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by repetitive facial movements. However, it’s essential to consult with our qualified healthcare providers to determine if neurotoxin injections are suitable for your specific needs.

When administered by a qualified healthcare provider, neurotoxin injections are considered safe for most individuals. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your provider before undergoing treatment.

Patients typically begin to see the effects of neurotoxin injections within a few days, with full results becoming apparent within 14 to 21 days after treatment.

These are some common questions and answers about neurotoxin injections. It’s important to consult with our qualified healthcare providers to discuss your individual goals, expectations, and any concerns before undergoing treatment.

Neurotoxin muscle retraining is a strategic, therapeutic use of Botox or other neuromodulators to re-educate facial muscles. Instead of simply freezing movement, this technique focuses on softening overactive muscles while allowing underactive ones to strengthen, helping the face return to a more natural, lifted, and balanced state over time.

Traditional Botox is often used to simply reduce lines and wrinkles. Muscle retraining takes a more functional and holistic approach—considering facial symmetry, muscle dominance, aging patterns, and movement habits. The goal is not just aesthetics but long-term optimization of facial structure, harmony, and youthfulness.

• Softens harsh expression lines
  
  
• Lifts and balances facial asymmetries
  
  
• Prevents formation of deep static wrinkles
  
  
• Improves facial posture and resting tension
  
  
• Reduces “angry” or “tired” appearance
  
  
• Enhances results of other aesthetic treatments

Creates a more natural, rested look over time

Common areas include:

• Forehead and glabella (frown lines)
  
  
• Eyebrow lift and brow balancing
  
  
• Crow’s feet and lower eyelid support
  
  
• DAO (depressor anguli oris) to lift mouth corners
  
  
• Masseter muscles (jaw slimming or clenching/grinding relief)
  
  
• Chin dimpling (mentalis)
  
  
• Neck bands (platysmal tightening)

Lip flip or smile correction
 Each treatment plan is personalized based on facial assessment and movement patterns.

By temporarily relaxing dominant, overused muscles, neurotoxins allow the opposing or underactive muscles to engage more freely. Over time, this re-patterns how the face moves and rests, reducing the need for high doses or frequent touch-ups. It also supports a more youthful and open expression.

Yes. Neurotoxin injections have a long-standing safety record when performed by trained professionals. Muscle retraining uses precise dosing and placement to avoid the “frozen” look and instead create a refined, subtle improvement.

Most clients start with treatments every 12–16 weeks. With consistent use and proper retraining, muscles become less reactive, and you may need fewer units or less frequent visits over time.

Absolutely. The goal of muscle retraining is to enhance your natural beauty, not to freeze your face. By addressing imbalances and softening overactivity, we achieve smoother skin, lifted features, and more natural expressions.

No—this approach is excellent for prejuvenation in younger patients as well. Starting early can prevent the formation of deep expression lines and help maintain facial symmetry and tone.

Yes. Neurotoxin muscle retraining pairs beautifully with:

• Dermal fillers for facial contouring and support
  
  
• PRP or Sculptra for collagen stimulation
  
  
• CO2 laser or microneedling for texture and tone

Facial exercises or lymphatic massage for long-term maintenance

 You may be a great candidate if you:

• Notice dynamic wrinkles or muscle imbalance
  
  
• Clench, squint, or furrow frequently
  
  
• Want more lifted, relaxed facial features
  
  
• Prefer a subtle, natural-looking result
  
  
• Are interested in prevention, not just correction
  A consultation at TONIIK will include a full facial assessment and personalized retraining plan.