Botox is used at Sage Dermatology to soften the lines that form with repeated facial movement, and to treat several medical conditions where overactive muscles or sweat glands are the problem. Treatments are performed by a board-certified dermatologist at our clinic at Yonge and Wellesley in downtown Toronto.

What Botox does

Botox is a purified protein that temporarily reduces the activity of the muscle it is injected into. Lines caused by movement, such as frown lines between the brows, forehead lines and crow's feet, soften as the muscle relaxes. Lines that are present when the face is completely at rest are caused by structural change in the skin rather than movement, and respond better to resurfacing or filler. Part of the consultation is working out which of the two you have.

Areas we treat

• Frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet. The most common areas, and the ones with the most predictable result.
• Masseter (jaw). Treating the chewing muscle can ease clenching and grinding and, over time, soften a heavy or square jawline.
• Underarms, hands and feet. For excessive sweating. See our page on hyperhidrosis, as this may be covered differently.
• Neck bands, chin dimpling and a gummy smile. Smaller, more technique-dependent areas.

What to expect

The appointment takes about 30 minutes. Injections are made with a very fine needle and most people describe brief stinging rather than pain. There is no meaningful downtime; you can return to work immediately. Avoid lying flat, exercising or massaging the treated area for the rest of the day.

The effect begins at three to five days and is fully established at about two weeks. It typically lasts three to four months, and somewhat less in the first few treatments or in very active muscles. We book a review at two weeks for new patients so any adjustment can be made.

Risks

Bruising and a temporary headache are the most common side effects. Eyelid or brow heaviness is uncommon, is caused by product spreading beyond the target muscle, and resolves as the effect wears off. Choosing dose and injection points carefully is what keeps this rare, which is the argument for having it done by a physician who treats the face regularly.

Cost and coverage

Botox for lines and wrinkles is cosmetic and is not covered by OHIP. Botox for certain medical indications, including severe underarm sweating, may be covered by private insurance plans; we provide the documentation your insurer requires. Cost depends on the number of units, which depends on the area and on your muscle strength, and is confirmed at your consultation.

Why a dermatologist

Botox in Toronto is offered in a wide range of settings. At a dermatology clinic the person injecting is a physician who assesses your skin as a whole, can tell movement lines from static ones, and can offer the alternatives when Botox is not the right answer. No referral is needed for a cosmetic consultation.

Booking

Call 416.792.0159 or email info@sagedermatology.ca. Sage Dermatology is at 591 Yonge Street, steps from Wellesley subway station, with underground parking on Gloucester Street. Plan your visit.

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