Xeomin is manufactured by Merz Pharmaceuticals and is an alternative to botox. It is most commonly used to soften moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. It contains a different formulation of the same botulinum toxin type A that is found in botox and dysport, however it works in a similar way. Xeomin uses the botulinum toxin to block nerve activity in the muscles, resulting in decreased muscle activity and less wrinkles. It is not a filler and will not eliminate existing wrinkles, however it will soften them and help to prevent future wrinkles.
Although xeomin is very similar to botox, there are a few key differences. The main difference is that xeomin undergoes an additional step in the purification process, eliminating the complexing protein that botox has. In addition, xeomin does not need to be refrigerated like botox, meaning that its distribution is easier, and the vile must be mixed by flipping it rather than swirling it. The next is that xeomin only contains the botulinum toxin and no additives, meaning that there is a decreased risk of developing antibodies against xeomin. Antibodies are developed when the body senses foreign contaminants and these antibodies can hinder the neurotoxin, which will not allow the injection to work properly. By having a decreased risk of prompting the development of antibodies, xeomin also has an increased success rate.
While botox tends to be the more popular choice, in some cases xeomin is recommended after botox fails to work properly. After botox is injected a number of times, the body can possibly develop an immunity to the neurotoxin, meaning that the injection won’t work. If and when this were to happen, xeomin injections can be effectively used since it is slightly different from botox. Since xeomin does not contain complexing proteins on the outside, there is a decreased chance the body will be able to develop antibodies against it.
Xeomin is injected in the same way that botox is injected and generally only takes about 15-20 minutes. A topical anesthetic cream is first applied to the injection site and then small needles are injected into each muscle for a few seconds. Most people report only minor discomfort or feeling a tiny pinch during the injections. After treatment, it is advised that you do not scratch, rub, or apply heat directly to the skin. It is also recommended to stay upright for at least 2-4 hours after the injections to ensure xeomin stays in the correct location.
As with any procedure, there are risks involved. Most of the risks associated with xeomin include bleeding and bruising at the injection site, as well as the possibility of allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, or shortness of breath. Other side effects that can happen are headaches, rash, localized numbness, and flu-like symptoms. Generally speaking, however, these types of side effects are the result of the injectable not being injected correctly. At Allen Aesthetic Surgery, we have extensive experience in xeomin injections with minimal complications.
If you have not been pleased with your botox results or if you are looking for an alternative to botox injections and would like to learn more about xeomin, schedule a consultation at Allen Aesthetic Surgery today!