Neuromodulators – Anti-Wrinkle Injections

What is a neuromodulator?

Neuromodulators are purified proteins made from botulinum toxin. Injected precisely into certain facial muscles, they reduce muscle activity and soften expression lines. It is a non-surgical treatment.

Each product has its own characteristics: onset, strength and duration. The choice is tailored to your anatomy and goals. Dr. Rowen has practised aesthetic medicine for over 25 years and continues his training within the AMNI network.

How do neuromodulators work?

The product blocks the nerve signals sent to certain muscles, which then contract less. The lines caused by these movements soften.

Before each treatment, Dr. Rowen assesses your anatomy and expressions. He determines the areas to treat and the right dose, aiming for a natural, balanced result.

Treatment areas

Frown lines (glabella)

Vertical lines between the eyebrows, above the nose. Treatment relaxes this area and softens your expression.

Crow’s feet

Lines at the corners of the eyes, caused by smiling or squinting. Treatment softens them for a more rested look.

Forehead lines

Horizontal lines linked to facial expressions. Treatment smooths the forehead while keeping a natural look.

Other areas

• Brow lift: subtly lifts the tail of the eyebrow to open up the eyes.
• Bunny lines: small lines on the sides of the nose.
• Lines around the mouth (smoker’s lines): vertical lines above the upper lip.
• Marionette lines: lines running from the corners of the mouth toward the chin.
• Chin (orange-peel texture): smooths an uneven chin texture.
• Gummy smile: reduces gum exposure when smiling.
• Neck bands (platysmal bands) and Nefertiti lift: soften vertical neck bands and redefine the jawline.
• Upper lip: see the lip flip.
• Jaw (masseter): see bruxism treatment.

How the treatment works

The product is given as a series of micro-injections with a fine needle. No anesthesia is needed: most patients describe minimal discomfort, similar to a mosquito bite.

First effects appear within a few days. The full result is usually visible within 7 to 14 days. A follow-up visit is scheduled two weeks after treatment to assess the result and make small adjustments if needed.

How long do results last?

Effects are temporary and usually last 3 to 4 months. Lines then gradually return. Duration depends on:

• the dose used;
• the type of neuromodulator;
• the size and location of the treated muscles (effects often fade faster on the forehead and crow’s feet than between the brows);
• your individual response to treatment.

With regular treatments, lines often become less pronounced, as the muscles get used to relaxing. A treatment about every 4 months is generally recommended.

Risks and side effects

Side effects can occur if muscles next to the treated area are affected: drooping eyelid, altered smile, double vision or heavy brows. These effects are temporary. Choosing an experienced, qualified injector reduces these risks.

Medical uses

Neuromodulators are also used to treat some medical conditions:

• Excessive sweating: underarms, palms or soles of the feet. See hyperhidrosis.
• Chronic migraine (15 or more days per month), as a preventive treatment. See chronic migraine.

Our clinics

Dr. Rowen offers neuromodulator injections at both of our clinics:

• Westmount (Montreal): 4484 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 200.
• Knowlton (Brome Lake): 273 Knowlton Road. For patients from Sutton, Cowansville, Bromont, Granby and the Brome-Missisquoi region.