Botulinum toxin (such as Botox® and Dysport®) is one of the most studied aesthetic treatments in the world. A few precise injections temporarily relax the muscles responsible for expression lines, so the skin above them can smooth out.
Sophie uses a conservative, anatomy-first approach so you keep natural movement and expression — you simply look rested and refreshed.
Products we use: Botox® · Dysport® · Nuceiva® — about our products
Ideal for
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines between the brows (“11s”)
- Crow's feet
- Bunny lines & lip flip
- Jaw clenching / masseter slimming
- Preventative (“baby”) treatment
What to expect
- Consultation & assessment: You'll start with a consultation and medical assessment with Sophie Gatward, NP, who reviews your health history, medications and goals and watches how your facial muscles move. Together you'll agree on a conservative, personalized plan.
- Treatment day: After your skin is cleansed, a few small injections are placed with an ultra-fine needle. The appointment usually takes 15–30 minutes.
- Right after: Small bumps or slight redness at the injection points are common and usually fade quickly. Most people go straight back to work or their day.
- Following days: Lines soften gradually — you'll usually notice a change after about 3 days, with the full effect by about two weeks.
- Follow-up & maintenance: If anything looks uneven once your results have settled, contact the clinic so Sophie can take a look. Results usually last about 3–4 months, so many people plan their next visit around then.
Aftercare tips
- Follow the personalized instructions you receive at your appointment — they take priority over these general tips.
- For the rest of the day, avoid rubbing, massaging or pressing on the treated areas.
- Stay upright and avoid lying flat for the rest of the day.
- Skip strenuous exercise, saunas and hot tubs until the next day.
- Avoiding alcohol on the day of treatment may help lower the chance of bruising.
- Check with the clinic before booking a facial, facial massage or other skin treatment in the days after your appointment.
- Give your results the full two weeks to develop before judging them.
Possible side effects
- Mild redness, swelling or small bumps at the injection points, which usually settle within a few hours.
- Minor bruising or tenderness where the needle went in, which can take several days to fade.
- A mild headache for a day or two.
- Uncommonly, a heavy or drooping eyelid or brow, or a slightly uneven look, if the product affects a nearby muscle. It's temporary and usually improves gradually as the effect wears off — contact the clinic if you notice it.
- Rare but serious: an allergic reaction, or effects spreading beyond the treated area, such as trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing, or unusual muscle weakness. These need emergency care right away.
If something doesn’t feel right after your treatment, call the clinic at 416-604-0040. For severe symptoms — such as trouble breathing, vision changes, or skin turning white, grey or dusky — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
Most clients describe a quick pinch. Ultra-fine needles are used and the appointment is brief.
Will I look frozen?
No. Dosing is tailored to your anatomy and goals so you keep natural expression.
Is there anything to avoid afterwards?
For the rest of the day avoid lying flat, strenuous exercise and rubbing the treated area. You'll receive full aftercare instructions.
How often will I need treatment?
Results usually last about 3–4 months, so many people return around then to maintain them. Timing is personal — some people choose to wait longer, and Sophie can help you find a schedule that suits you.
What is preventative, or baby, botulinum toxin?
It usually means a lighter, conservative approach to early expression lines, before they become deeper. Whether it makes sense for you depends on your skin, how your muscles move and your goals, which Sophie reviews at your consultation.
What is a lip flip?
A lip flip uses a small amount of botulinum toxin to relax the muscle around the mouth, so the upper lip gently rolls outward. It doesn't add volume the way lip filler does, and the effect is subtle and temporary.
Who shouldn't have botulinum toxin?
It isn't recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and it may not be suitable if you have certain neuromuscular conditions, an infection in the treatment area, or an allergy to any ingredient. Your health history and medications are reviewed at your consultation before any treatment.
Individual results vary. All treatments require an in-person consultation and medical assessment to confirm they're right for you. Content on this page is for general information and is not medical advice.
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Helpful reading about Botulinum Toxin
How to prepare for injectables — and how to care for your skin after
Simple, sensible tips for the days before and after Botox, dermal filler or Sculptra, plus the warning signs that mean you should call the clinic.
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