Which procedure options can help reduce the appearance of glabellar lines besides botox / filler? (photo)

Question

I would like to eliminate, or at least soften my glabellar lines. I'm reluctant to start using Botox or fillers at this time ( I've been told that once you start, it's like for the rest of your life) Is there a laser that would help? Or something that lasts longer than Botox or fillers?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

"​For glabellar lines (or frown lines / ""11"" lines), we inject Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport into the muscle, causing the muscle to weaken and improving the appearance of the lines. These work by binding to receptors that send nerve signals for muscles to contract. Since your body makes new receptors and neurotransmitters all the time, it needs to be maintained otherwise the wrinkles will slowly return as the muscle regains function over time. Neurotoxins take 2 to 4 weeks to start working and lasts for up to 6 months.

For deeper glabella lines or strong 11s, I use a combination of Botox with fillers, lasers and microneedling with PRP. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist and expert in lasers and fillers. Best, Dr. Emer
​"

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and posting your photo. Botox is the best treatment option for frown lines. To maintain the results the injections have to be performed every 4 months. When you stop getting treated with Botox you simply go back to your original appearance. Lasers are only mildly effective, but have better results if your Botox once prior to the laser. Make an appointment with an experienced oculofacial surgeon who specializes in the erbium laser. 
Good luck,

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there,

Honestly Botox is the way to go.  That muscle needs to be paralyzed to prevent so anything would not be beneficial while you can move the muscle.

Best of luck!

Which procedure options can help reduce the appearance of glabellar lines besides botox / filler? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox

Answer: Botox

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Which procedure options can help reduce the appearance of glabellar lines besides botox / filler? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox

Answer: Botox

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.