Migraine

Has migraine significantly impacted your daily life? The unbearable headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, and other symptoms can make it extremely difficult to function normally. BTX (Botulinum Toxin) for migraine can be a life-changing option that provides relief. If traditional migraine treatments have not been effective, considering BTX migraine treatment is certainly a wise choice.

How Does Migraine Manifest?

Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by recurring episodes of severe headache, usually on one side of the head. This pain can be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes visual disturbances like flickering lights or blind spots in the visual field.

The frequency, duration, and intensity of migraine attacks can vary greatly. Some people experience only a few attacks per year, while others suffer from frequent migraines that can severely disrupt daily life.

How Is the BTX Migraine Treatment Performed?

In BTX migraine treatment, the levels of neurotransmitters involved in triggering migraine attacks are reduced.
BTX is injected into the facial muscles that often contribute to migraines. These muscles are typically located around the eyebrows, temples, and forehead. By relaxing these muscles, the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks can be reduced.

What Is the Procedure for BTX Migraine Treatment?

The BTX migraine treatment is a relatively short procedure, usually taking no longer than 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s an overview of the process:

  • You have a prior consultation with Dr. Detollenaere to discuss your condition.
  • Dr. Detollenaere cleanses the area to be treated.
  • The BTX injection is administered using a very fine needle.
  • After the treatment, you can resume your daily activities.
  • It is recommended to avoid intense physical activity on the day of the treatment.

What Results Can I Expect?

The first results can be noticed within 3–5 days after the treatment, but these are usually subtle compared to the full effect, which becomes fully apparent after 10–14 days. After this period, you should notice a reduction in both the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. The effects of the treatment generally last about 3 to 4 months. It is important to note that the more frequently the treatment is repeated, the longer it takes for the effects of BTX to wear off.

Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions

Precautions for BTX Migraine:

  • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the treatment.

  • Stop taking blood-thinning medications 24 hours prior to the treatment.

  • Ensure you are not pregnant or breastfeeding before undergoing a BTX/muscle relaxant treatment.

Aftercare for BTX Migraine:

  • Do not lie down or bend forward for 4 hours after the treatment.

  • Avoid smoking and strenuous exercise for 24 hours after the treatment.

  • Do not massage the treated area for 24–48 hours.

  • Do not wear makeup for 24 hours.

FAQ

Muscle-relaxing injections are administered into specific facial muscles using a fine needle. These injections block the signals between the nerve and the muscle, reducing muscle activity. As a result, wrinkles and fine lines become less visible or may even disappear completely.

Wrinkle reduction begins 2–8 days after the injection. The optimal effect is usually visible after about 4 weeks and lasts between 6–8 weeks. After 8 weeks, the effect gradually diminishes. By 12 weeks, the effect is roughly halved, and after 4 months, about 80% of the effect has worn off. Many patients choose to repeat the treatment every 3–4 months, though this varies per individual. Men, physically active people, and those with a more muscular appearance may require larger or more frequent doses.

Although wrinkle injections are a medical procedure performed by a physician and carry some risks, they are generally considered safe with a low risk of complications.

  • Common side effects include bruising and swelling at the injection site.
  • Mild headache may occur in about 10% of cases, usually lasting no longer than 24 hours.
  • Drooping of the eyebrow or eyelid can occur in about 2% of patients and may last up to 3 weeks.
  • Sometimes multiple treatments are needed to achieve the best result.
  • Infections are very rare.

The treatment causes minimal pain. You may feel a slight pinch during the injection and a brief burning sensation. While the injection itself takes only about 5 minutes, preparatory steps—such as taking photos, signing a consent form, and cleansing the area—make the total appointment last approximately 30 minutes.

Your aesthetic physician, Dr. Kim Detollenaere, may advise you to frequently frown or make other facial expressions during the first few days.

  • Avoid putting pressure on the treated area for the first 24–48 hours.

  • Do not touch or massage the treated area, especially within the first 24 hours.

  • Wait at least 6–8 hours, or preferably until the next day, before applying makeup.

 

Approximately 2 weeks after your initial treatment, a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to assess the results. To maintain the effects, regular treatments are recommended; you can discuss the schedule with your doctor during your appointment.

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