Frown line Botox is a highly effective, non-surgical treatment for smoothing vertical lines between the eyebrows, also known as glabellar lines or “11 lines.” At our Botox clinic in Chiswick, this targeted procedure softens angry or tense expressions, creating a more relaxed, approachable look.
Frown lines form due to repeated contraction of the corrugator and procerus muscles, which pull the brows together. Botox injections for frown lines work by gently relaxing these facial muscles, helping to smooth the area while allowing for natural facial expressions.
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Frown lines are caused by repeated activation of the corrugator and procerus muscles. These are small but powerful facial muscles that contract when we frown, squint, or concentrate. Over time, they create deep vertical lines and wrinkles between the brows. Botox for frown lines works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that trigger these muscle contractions. As the muscles relax, the overlying skin smooths out, and the harsh lines begin to fade.
When treating the upper face, it’s essential to maintain muscular balance. Injecting Botox between the eyebrows without addressing the forehead can result in uneven brow movement or heaviness. That’s why glabellar Botox is frequently paired with forehead injections. This creates a more harmonious appearance and allows for natural brow positioning.
Yes. One of the additional benefits of glabellar Botox is that it can subtly lift the brows. By relaxing the muscles that pull the brows downward, Botox can help reveal more of the upper eyelid and brighten the eyes. This is often referred to as an eyebrow lift with Botox or Botox to raise eyebrows, and it can significantly improve the overall facial aesthetic without surgery.
Most treatments involve 5 precise injection points into the glabella region. This includes targeted injections into the corrugator and procerus muscles. However, depending on individual anatomy, this may vary slightly. The dose and pattern are customised to each patient for optimal results.
Dr. Bela, a dermatologist with over 15 years of experience in aesthetic medicine, brings an advanced level of precision to every frown Botox treatment. Having completed extensive cadaver training, Dr. Bela has studied the exact anatomy and positioning of the procerus and corrugator muscles in detail. This hands-on anatomical training is essential for accurately targeting the muscles responsible for frown lines. By understanding the optimal depth, angle, and direction for each injection, Dr. Bela ensures that every treatment is delivered with maximum precision and safety.
During the procedure, Dr. Bela uses the non-injecting hand to apply gentle pressure near the orbital region (towards the eyes). This technique is used to shield surrounding tissues and help prevent the spread of botulinum toxin into adjacent muscles. This reduces the risk of complications such as lid or brow ptosis. The ability to control diffusion in delicate areas like the glabella requires extensive training and experienced hands, which is why Dr. Bela’s anatomical expertise plays a critical role in the safety and success of each treatment.
For patients who begin frown line treatments later—when deep “11 lines” are already well-established—Botox alone may not be enough to smooth the area. In these cases, a combination approach using both Botox and dermal fillers is often recommended. Dr. Bela typically administers Botox first to relax the overactive muscles. Once the Botox has taken full effect and the area has stabilised, dermal fillers can then be used to restore lost volume and further reduce the appearance of static lines. This technique not only enhances the aesthetic result but also improves the longevity of the filler by reducing muscle movement. However, the glabellar region is one of the most anatomically high-risk areas for filler treatment due to its vascular complexity. Intravascular injection in this area can lead to serious complications. For this reason, the combination approach should only be performed by experienced practitioners like Dr. Bela, who possess in-depth anatomical knowledge and advanced injection technique.
Beyond its cosmetic benefits, treating frown lines has deeper emotional and psychological implications. Human communication is not only verbal—it heavily relies on facial expressions and body language. Deep glabellar lines can unintentionally signal anger, frustration, or disapproval, even when the person is feeling neutral or content. This can impact social interactions and relationships, often without the person even realising it.
By relaxing these frown muscles with Botox, patients not only achieve a more neutral or approachable appearance, but they may also experience mood-related benefits. When the ability to produce a negative facial expression like frowning is reduced, it can create a positive feedback loop that improves mood and emotional well-being. This is particularly relevant for patients struggling with tension, irritability, or mood disorders. In this sense, Botox to the frown area is not just a cosmetic treatment—it can be a subtle yet meaningful contributor to quality of life.
Frown Botox is a quick, well-tolerated procedure, typically completed in under 30 minutes. A fine needle is used, and most patients describe the sensation as mild. There is minimal downtime—any redness or swelling at the injection site usually resolves within an hour. Full results develop in 10 to 14 days and typically last 3 to 5 months. The procedure can be repeated regularly to maintain a smoother, softer expression.
The cost of Botox for frown lines depends on the number of areas treated. During the consultation at our Chiswick clinic, a full facial assessment is performed, and a tailored treatment plan is provided along with a personalised quote. Patients receive expert advice on whether combining glabellar Botox with forehead or eyebrow treatments would enhance their outcome.
Over the years, Dr. Bela has identified multiple melanomas on aesthetic patients—often in areas they hadn’t noticed themselves. In one notable case, during a Botox consultation, he spotted a small but suspicious lesion on a patient’s forehead. When reviewing previous treatment photos, it became clear that the melanoma had gradually developed over time, becoming increasingly visible across sessions. Despite its small size, the lesion was already an early invasive melanoma—but was thankfully detected in time. This case is just one of several examples highlighting how melanoma can remain hidden in plain sight. For this reason, Dr. Bela now offers a discounted mole check for all existing aesthetic patients, making it easier to combine cosmetic care with life-saving early detection.
All glabellar Botox treatments at Chiswick Clinic are carried out by Dr. Bela, a highly experienced medical doctor, dermatologist with over 15 years in aesthetic practice. Each treatment is preceded by a medical consultation to ensure safety and individualised planning.
Yes. Botox for frown lines is safe when performed by trained medical professionals. The product has been used for decades and is FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved for glabellar line treatment.
Results typically last 3 to 5 months. Repeat treatments help maintain long-term improvement and prevent deep lines from forming.
No. When done properly, frown Botox softens harsh lines without freezing facial expressions. The goal is always to preserve natural movement while creating a more relaxed appearance.
This is extremely rare when treatment is administered by an experienced injector. Proper technique and understanding of facial anatomy are essential to avoid such complications.
Discomfort is minimal. The needle used for Botox injections is very fine, and most patients tolerate the treatment easily without numbing.
Frown lines will gradually return to their natural state. Stopping treatment won’t make the lines worse—they just slowly reappear as muscle movement resumes.
Call or message Chiswick Clinic to learn more about treating frown lines with Botox. Our team is here to guide you toward safe, natural-looking results tailored to your needs.
