Men are not immune from the aging process, and it’s been my experience that most men are open to effective aesthetic treatments. Portland Botox injections are the most common treatment in my practice sought out by men. This is because they are effective, require no down time, and give natural results. Commonly referred to as “Bro tox,” this week I discuss botulinum toxin injections for men.

Botulinum toxin (aka Botox) is produced by the bacteria clostridium botulinum and can be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles on the face that occur as we age; regardless of gender! When injected into a specific muscle, the toxin temporarily relaxes the muscle by blocking acetylcholine release (1). It takes about two weeks for effects to fully take place with results lasting about three months. The most common cause of inadequate results in a man is not dosing high enough (2); men can require double the dosage of their female counterpart.

Men presenting for Portland Botox injections typically want to look less tired, more fresh, and less wrinkled. Those with neurological conditions such as myasthenia gravis or on anticoagulants that cannot be stopped are not good candidates for Botox injections. Based on the scientific literature, the safety of botulinum toxin injections is well established (3).

The areas commonly treated with ‘Bro tox’:

The glabellar, or frown lines, are located between the eyes and typically require 30-40 units for men.
The forehead horizontal lines with the goal to soften the lines without complete muscle paralysis; we want to retain some movement with animation. This typically requires 20-30 units for men.
The crow’s feet; or the lateral eye lines. These typically require 12-15 units for men.

Botulinum toxin injections are safe, however risks do exist. Any time we use a needle, there is a risk for bruising which typically resolves quickly. Visible lumps where the medicine was placed may be visible directly after the treatment and typically resolve within the hour and may last up to a few hours. The treatment starts to work 2-7 days from injection and peaks around one month. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours and laying down for four hours on injection day. This is to prevent a temporary droopy eyelid which can happen if the medicine migrates. Provided you follow the aftercare instructions of avoiding facial massage, exercise, and pressure to the treated area we can prevent this unwanted outcome.

With all this being said, Father’s day is upon us and what better gift than a Botox treatment! From now until Father’s Day, purchase 50 units of Portland Botox and receive 10 units free! Apply the 10 units to your next Portland Botox treatment or gift it to the father figure in your life.

Resources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6489637/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18093014/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24575858/