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Updated: May 20, 2026
07:05
Ultrasound-guided Botulinum Toxin-A Injections: A Method of Treating Sialorrhea
Published on: November 9, 2016
Glabellar contraction patterns: a tool to optimize botulinum toxin treatment.
Ada R Trindade de Almeida1, Elisa R M da Costa Marques, Raul Banegas
1Dermatology Clinic, Hospital do Servidor Público Municipal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. artrindal@uol.com.br
Summary
Five distinct glabellar contraction patterns were confirmed in adults, aiding botulinum toxin treatments. These unique facial animation patterns persist even after repeated botulinum toxin injections.
Area of Science:
- Aesthetics
- Dermatology
- Facial Anatomy
Background:
- Botulinum toxin is a standard treatment for dynamic glabellar lines.
- Previous research identified five glabellar contraction patterns: U, V, convergent arrows, omega, and inverted omega.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the existence of these glabellar contraction patterns in the adult population.
- To assess if these patterns change after repeated botulinum toxin treatments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 334 adult volunteers' facial photographs (at rest and contraction).
- Analysis of 36 previously treated individuals during follow-up re-injections.
Main Results:
- The five previously identified glabellar contraction patterns were confirmed.
- Individual contraction patterns were consistent and reappeared after the botulinum toxin effect diminished.
Conclusions:
- Significant interpersonal variations in facial animation exist.
- Classifying glabellar patterns enables precise botulinum toxin application for natural, effective results.
- Initial muscle contraction patterns are re-established as botulinum toxin's effect wanes, despite adjacent muscle recruitment.
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