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This page gives general information about cosmetic injections for lines caused by facial movement, such as on the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes. The treatment uses botulinum toxin type A, a prescription-only medicine, which temporarily reduces the movement of the injected muscles. The effect wears off over months, so repeat treatment is needed to maintain it.
Lines from facial expression are a normal part of ageing, and treatment is a personal choice rather than a medical need. Like all medicines it has side effects and risks, described below. A registered prescriber, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, must assess you in person or by video consultation before it can be prescribed, and it must not be used for cosmetic purposes in people under 18. Medical uses of this medicine are a separate matter for a treating doctor; this page covers cosmetic use only.
Fees vary with the amount of product and the area treated, the practitioner and any follow-up appointments. Ask for a written, itemised quote that covers the consultation and any review fees before you agree to treatment. Medicare does not cover cosmetic use. The effect is temporary, so repeat treatments mean repeat costs and repeat risks.
Small red bumps at the injection sites usually settle within 30 to 60 minutes, and bruising can occur and may be visible for several days. Many people return to work straight after treatment.
In the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid rubbing the treated areas, strenuous exercise and excessive heat (such as saunas and hot yoga). The effect usually begins within 3 to 5 days and is fully visible at about 2 weeks; ask your practitioner about a review at that point. Seek medical help promptly if you develop a drooping eyelid, double vision, or difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing.
Common side effects include redness, swelling, tenderness and bruising at the injection sites, and headache. Other risks include asymmetry and the medicine spreading to nearby muscles, which can cause a drooping eyelid or brow, double vision or an uneven smile. These effects are usually temporary but can last weeks to months until the medicine wears off. Allergic reactions and infection are rare.
Rarely, the effect can spread beyond the treated area and cause serious problems such as generalised muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing, which need urgent medical attention. Tell your prescriber about any neuromuscular condition, as it can increase this risk. Ask who will treat you, their registration, and what happens if there is a complication, including who to contact after hours.
Fees vary with the amount of product, the area treated, the practitioner and follow-up appointments, so we do not publish prices. Ask for a written, itemised quote that includes consultation and review fees. Medicare does not cover cosmetic use, and repeat treatments mean repeat costs and repeat risks.
No. Medicare does not cover cosmetic use. Medical uses of this medicine are a separate matter to discuss with a treating doctor; this page covers cosmetic use only.
Usually about 3 to 4 months, as muscle movement gradually returns. Repeat treatment is needed to maintain the effect, and each treatment carries the same risks and costs.
You may feel a sting or pinch with each injection; experiences vary. Anaesthetic is not usually needed, though a numbing cream can be applied.
The effect usually begins within 3 to 5 days and is fully visible at about 2 weeks. Ask your practitioner about a review at that point.
Many people return to work the same day, but small bumps or bruising can be visible. Avoid lying down, rubbing the area or strenuous exercise for about 4 hours, or as your practitioner advises.
This page is general information for prospective patients researching cosmetic injectables for facial lines in Australia. It is not personal medical advice. Clinical timing, eligibility, risks and outcomes vary: discuss your specific case with an AHPRA-registered practitioner at consultation.