Softer lines.
Keep your expression.

What botulinum toxin changes—and how the plan is chosen

Botulinum toxin temporarily reduces selected nerve signals. In facial treatment, the aim may be to soften lines caused by movement or reduce the contribution of a prominent muscle. In underarm treatment, the target is signalling to sweat glands. It does not fill a hollow or remove excess skin.

At MICHIKO, assessment considers your individual face as a whole. Dr. Gift and our medical team consider your baseline smile, brow position and function alongside the concern. The plan should explain what will change, what movement you want to retain and when the response will be reviewed.

Timing, discomfort and keeping your expression.

Botulinum toxin does not erase every crease. Movement-related lines may soften as the effect develops over several days, while lines visible at rest may need a different discussion. The result is temporary; duration varies with the product, area and individual response. A review around two weeks is commonly discussed, rather than judging the effect immediately.

Small injection points can sting and may bruise. Unwanted brow or eyelid position, a stiff expression or smile changes are reasons to contact the treating clinician. Difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing needs urgent medical attention. The treatment plan should consider these risks before you decide.

Who may benefit, and when should treatment wait?

Suitability depends on the muscles or sweating pattern involved and your medical history. Tell the doctor about previous toxin treatment, medicines, pregnancy or breastfeeding and any muscle or nerve condition. A consultation may lead to another option or postponing treatment.

Dysport, Botox and Hugel: compare the actual product

Dysport, Allergan Botox and Hugel products differ in formulation and dosing. Confirm the exact licensed formulation, current availability and the clinician’s reason for recommending it. Units are product-specific and are not interchangeable across brands; a lower price per unit is not a like-for-like comparison. Ask what the total quote covers, including the treatment area and review.

Before your appointment and during recovery.

Tell the doctor about previous toxin treatments, neuromuscular conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, medicines and allergies. Do not stop prescribed medicines without the prescriber’s advice. Treatment should wait if the proposed area has an active infection.

Follow the clinic’s product-specific instructions on pressure, exercise and other procedures. Avoid rubbing injection sites. Contact the clinic about an unexpected change instead of arranging an early top-up elsewhere. The review checks both your concern and normal facial function.

What happens after treatment?

Your doctor provides aftercare and a review plan. Effects and duration vary with product, area and individual response. Discuss unexpected weakness, asymmetry or other symptoms promptly; difficulty swallowing or breathing needs urgent medical attention.

What happens during the appointment?

Begin with your concerns and treatment history. Your doctor assesses the relevant area, explains suitable options and agrees the plan, price and follow-up with you. Ask which product or device will be used, why it was selected and what the plan includes before giving consent.

What should I know about recovery and risks?

Bruising, tenderness, asymmetry and unwanted muscle weakness can occur. Risks differ between the forehead, jaw, neck and underarms. Difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking needs urgent medical attention. Obtain personal aftercare and a contact route before leaving.

When should the result be reviewed?

The effect develops over time and is temporary. Onset and duration vary by product, area and individual response. Agree a review time before considering more treatment; a wrinkle, jaw-contour and sweating result should each be assessed against its original goal.