Evaluation of Intradermal Injection of Botulinum Toxin A for Facial Lifting

BACKGROUND: Intradermal botolinum toxin A (BTXA) is an advanced technique that emerged in response to the increased demand for noninvasive facial lifting and skin rejuvenation. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intradermal injections of BTXA for facial lifting. METHODS: Twenty-five female patients with mild symmetrical facial skin laxity were enrolled in this study. All patients were treated with BTXA in one side of the face while the other side was injected with normal saline. The response to treatment was assessed by two dermatologists who evaluated global photographs using a quartile grading scale (QGS). The patient self-assessment and satisfaction questionnaires were recorded. RESULTS: A highly significant difference was found between the side injected with BTXA and the saline injected side (control) (p<0.001). Facial lifting was achieved in 58.66 percent of the sides injected with BTXA. Forty-four percent of patients were very satisfied. Older patients showed better improvement than younger patients (p=<0.001). The results persisted for 16 weeks. No adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that intradermal injection of BTXA could be a safe and effective therapeutic option for face lifting.