The frown line is the vertical line—often two—between the eyebrows. It is caused by the muscles that pull the brows together, and it is the area most frequently treated with botulinum toxin. The reason is simple: this line is interpreted from the outside as tension, anger, or worry, even if you feel none of these things.
Why this is treated so often here
A muscle group consisting of the corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles is responsible. It pulls the eyebrows towards the center and downwards. Because we unconsciously perform this movement hundreds of times a day—while reading, in sunlight, or concentrating—the line becomes etched into the face over the years, even on a relaxed face.
Treating frown lines has a second, often underestimated effect: by weakening the downward-pulling part of the frown line, the eyebrow lifts slightly. The eyes appear more open, without any work being done on the eyelids.
The process
- Analysis of movement: I will have you frown and draw up your eyebrows to see muscle strength and asymmetries.
- Information and written consent.
- Usually three to five punctures with a very fine needle, a few minutes.
- Follow-up examination after 14 days, included in the price.
Effect and duration
The effect begins after three to seven days and is complete after about two weeks. It typically lasts three to four months. The frown lines usually respond very reliably—it is the area with the highest satisfaction and the lowest risk of visible overtreatment, because hardly any facial expressions are lost here that one would miss.
If the line is already deeply etched into the face at rest, it will soften but not disappear completely immediately. After two to three treatment sessions, the skin usually smooths out further because it is no longer constantly being re-creased.
Risks
- Bruises at the injection site
- Headaches or pressure sensations in the first few days
- Rarely, a temporary drooping of the upper eyelid may occur because the active ingredient spreads into an unfavorable area. This usually resolves itself within a few weeks.
- Temporary slight asymmetry
Treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in cases of neuromuscular diseases, infections in the treatment area, and in cases of known hypersensitivity.
Aftercare — what to keep in mind
- No sports or sauna on the same day.
- Do not massage the area for several hours.
- Avoid lying flat for about four hours
Cost
Treatment with botulinum toxin costs 200 € For one area – the frown lines alone. In combination with forehead or crow's feet: two areas €320, three areas €400. Duration approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
The check-up after two weeks is included. All prices can be found at [website address]. Prices; The cost estimate provided during the initial consultation is decisive. Cosmetic treatments without a medical indication are not covered by health insurance. The initial consultation lasts approximately 25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the treatment still work if the wrinkle is already deep?
Yes, but more slowly. The movement stops immediately; the etched line takes time. For very deep resting wrinkles, we sometimes combine it with other procedures—we'll discuss that in person, rather than promising it beforehand.
Will I look expressionless afterwards?
Not if used correctly. The area between the eyebrows doesn't convey many friendly expressions. What gets lost is the frown—not your smile.
Is it possible to treat only the frown lines?
Yes. Often it's even the most sensible starting point. Sometimes it's advisable to... Forehead to be taken into account, because both muscle groups work together.
Does the treatment hurt?
The needles are very fine. Most people only feel a brief pinch; anesthesia is not necessary.
Can I be around people again right after that?
Yes, you can resume your normal social activities immediately. However, you should avoid sports, saunas, and pressure on the treated area on the day of treatment; minor redness at the injection sites usually disappears within an hour.
How many units are typical?
The frown lines are among the strongest muscle groups in the face, so they require more treatment than, for example, the crow's feet. Exactly how much depends on your muscle strength—visible by how deeply the lines crease when you furrow your brows. I start with a lower setting and add more treatment at the follow-up appointment after two weeks, rather than the other way around.
What happens if I stop again?
Nothing dramatic. Muscle activity gradually returns, and with it the wrinkle to the state it would be in without treatment. There is no relapse and no deterioration compared to the starting point. Many perceive the return as abrupt because they have become accustomed to the calmer appearance—objectively, it is the previous state.
frown lines and headaches
Some patients report that their tension headaches improve after treatment of the forehead area. This is a possible side effect and not a treatment goal: Headaches and migraines have their own medical indications, injection protocols, and patient education. If this is your primary concern, please let us know—then we can discuss it separately from the aesthetic aspects.
Combination with other areas
The frown line is often seen together with the Forehead wrinkles This is considered because both muscle groups are antagonistic. You can find an overview of all areas on the page about Botulinum toxin.
Would you like to know if treatment for frown lines is right for you?
Medically responsible: Dr. Jan Gumilar, General Practitioner — Private Practice for Aesthetic Medicine, Brandstätte 3, 1010 Vienna. Member of the German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum and Filler Therapy (DGBT).