Botox - although widely known by this common name — is scientifically referred to as botulinum toxin type A. It is a medical procedure based on the application of small, controlled doses of this protein into the muscle, temporarily reducing muscle activity in that area. The protein is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and works by blocking the release of acetylcholine at the nerve-muscle junction. It is accepted worldwide as the gold standard for treating dynamic mimetic wrinkles.
The word "Botox" is actually a registered trademark of the Allergan company (Botox®). There are multiple botulinum toxin type A preparations approved by the Turkish Ministry of Health. In our clinic, only licensed, CE- and FDA-approved products are used.
When our muscles move, the signal from the brain is transmitted to the muscle through the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine at the nerve endings. Botulinum toxin temporarily blocks this release. Since the muscle does not receive the signal, it relaxes. However, this effect is reversible — nerve endings begin to release acetylcholine again within 3–6 months, and muscle activity returns.
Botox applications extend far beyond aesthetics; it is used worldwide in dozens of medical indications.
Upper Face
Mid and Lower Face
Neck
Jaw and Facial Contour
Botox dosage is measured in "units". Each area has an average unit range, but this is only a reference — the actual dose is personalised for each patient. Muscle structure, skin thickness, gender, previous Botox treatments and the desired level of effect all determine the dosage.
General reference ranges (average for female patients):
Doses are typically 30–50% higher in male patients due to greater muscle mass.
Duration varies depending on the patient and the area treated:
Common (usually temporary, short-lived):
Uncommon:
Very Rare:
Most side effects are temporary. Permanent side effects are extremely rare. The most important way to minimise the risk of complications is ensuring the procedure is performed by a specialist physician at the correct dose.
"Botox is not permanent and does not cause addiction" — True. The effect is reversible.
"If you stop Botox, your wrinkles will be worse" — False. When Botox is stopped, the skin returns to its pre-treatment state; it does not worsen. On the contrary, regular Botox use may delay the formation of deep dynamic lines over time.
"Botox cannot be done at a young age" — Partially false. The age at which mimetic lines begin to appear varies by individual. "Preventive Botox" starting around ages 25–30 is common worldwide. However, it should not be applied in unnecessary doses.
"Botox makes the face frozen and expressionless" — May be true with incorrect technique or excessive dosing. In proper application, expressions are preserved — only overactive muscles are softened.
"I won't be able to smile after Botox" — False. The main smiling muscles are not targets for Botox. Only the excessive crinkling around the eyes (crow's feet) is softened.
Since the needles used are very thin, pain is usually minimal. Most patients describe it as an "ant bite". Topical anaesthetic cream can be applied upon request.
Yes. You can return to daily life directly after the procedure. However, it is important to avoid tilting the head forward and avoid lying flat for the first 4 hours.
A conservative dose is typically preferred for the first application. The goal is to see how the patient responds to Botox and perform a touch-up 2 weeks later if needed. Starting with a high dose increases the risk of complications.
Yes, they are often planned together. Botox addresses dynamic wrinkles while filler addresses volume loss; they solve different problems.
With proper application, facial features do not change — only wrinkles are softened. Your expressions are preserved.
Intense exercise is not recommended for the first 24 hours. Normal activity can resume afterwards.
Re-application is done when the effect begins to fade. However, it is recommended to wait until the effect fades completely — in regular patients, the duration may extend over time.
There is a special Botox application for the scalp ("hair botox" or "scalp Botox"); however, this should not be confused with the keratin treatment applied to the hair itself. Scalp Botox works by reducing muscle tension in the scalp to improve blood circulation and is not effective in all patients.
The cost of Botox in Turkey depends on the number of units applied, the areas treated and the brand of toxin selected. Prices in Turkey are generally more accessible than in Western Europe and North America, while being administered by qualified specialists using licensed products in modern clinical environments. For a personalised quote, please request a consultation.
MAKE APPOINTMENT 