Maximizing botulinum toxin injections for cosmetic and therapeutic applications with a single use, disposable, exact dose injection assist device

A Novel OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment Technique to Obtain Predictable Outcomes in Eyebrow Position and Shape

Background

OnabotulinumtoxinA has been approved for multiple clinical and dermatological indications. The toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, is undoubtedly the most widely used cosmetic treatment for both the reduction and prophylaxis of wrinkles in the upper face and the reshaping of the eyebrows. However, the aesthetic outcomes obtained with respect to eyebrow position and shape are not always predictable and furthermore, untoward effects such as eyelid and brow ptosis are sometimes seen.

Objective

This article suggests a novel injection technique of the upper face with OnabotulinumtoxinA to obtain predictable and reproducible results with respect to eyebrow position and shape, whilst greatly minimizing the risk of adverse effects such as brow and lid ptosis.

Discussion

OnabotulinumtoxinA inhibits the release of acetylcholine and results in the temporary paralysis of skeletal muscle. The aesthetic outcome of wrinkle reduction typically lasts for a period of 14–16 weeks. Although relatively safe in that the toxin does not have any irreversible side effects, even a temporary untoward reaction may be seriously distressing to the cosmetic patient.

Conclusion

The proposed injection technique, when diligently followed, ensures that the final eyebrow position is pleasing and symmetrical with a negligible risk of any untoward effects.

The mechanisms of action and use of botulinum neurotoxin type A in aesthetics: Key Clinical Postulates II

BACKGROUND

The literature on botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A) is extensive, often contradictory, and confounded by a competitive market of products and research attempting to distinguish brand individuality.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of literature on the principles of BoNT-A in aesthetics as well as clinical examples.

RESULTS

In 2017, the Eight Key Clinical Postulates were formulated as a guide for the aesthetic practitioner in understanding BoNT-A pharmacodynamics and to compare different toxins. These are now updated to include (a) All type A toxins act identically; (b) The mathematical relationship between toxin and receptor is the basis of efficacy, and clinical efficacy is influenced by molecular potency and patient attributes including muscle mass, gender, age, and ethnicity; (c) Efficacy, onset, and duration are functions of "molecular potency" defined as the number of active 150 kDa molecules available for binding; (d) "Molecular potency" is difficult to objectively quantify for commercially available toxins; (e) Up to a point, increased molecular potency decreases time to onset and increases duration of effect, and the "Molecular Potency Quotient" is a construct for comparing molecular potency commercial cost; (f) The area of effect of a toxin injection is dependent upon molecular potency, diffusion (passive), and spread (active); (g) Differing reconstitution volumes; and (h) Increased number of injection sites can affect spread, onset, and duration of effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The principles of BoNT-A use in aesthetics are complex yet understandable as outlined in the framework of the updated Eight Key Clinical Postulates and serves as a useful tool for providing the most effective treatment and interpreting research on present and future toxin formulations.