The highly effective and increasingly popular worldwide, trapezius Botox treatment is still relatively unknown in our region, despite offering numerous benefits. The trapezius muscle (lat. musculus trapezius) is the most superficial back muscle, shaped like a trapezoid. It is located next to the neck, extending toward the shoulders, and contributes to shoulder width. In muscular men, athletes, or gym enthusiasts, this muscle is often pronounced, giving a masculine appearance.
Botox is injected into this muscle for various reasons and is suitable for both men and women. One reason is to alleviate shoulder pain, a condition that sufferers know can be particularly uncomfortable. Another reason is aesthetics. This procedure can visually elongate and slim the neck, enhancing its appearance to look more elegant and feminine, which is why it is often referred to as "Barbie Botox."
When it comes to Botox doses being used, we are talking about the standard dose which is typically 20-30 units per trapezius muscle. Given that the trapezius is a relatively large muscle, larger amounts of Botox can be injected without compromising the effectiveness of the results.
"I personally prefer to start conservatively and adjust later if needed, rather than overdoing the dosage from the start. Just as with treating facial wrinkles, we relax the muscle by interrupting the nerve signals that activate it", explains Dr. Milojević.
Since the trapezius is quite large, many nerve synapses remain intact, but the muscle is sufficiently weakened to reduce pain while avoiding functional issues. Patients can carry on with their daily activities normally, and the muscle gradually shrinks over time. When a muscle is suddenly weakened, it tends to atrophy and decrease in size, meaning that noticeable results may take a little longer to appear.
The effects of the treatment typically last 3-6 months. Since the muscle is weakened and eventually atrophies, results may sometimes remain visible for up to 9 months. Patients will gradually notice a reduction in shoulder pain and, after about a month, observe a slimmer and more refined neck in the mirror.
As with all Botox treatments, patients can immediately return to their daily activities, including sports and gym workouts. In fact, activating the muscle within the first hour after treatment is encouraged, as some scientific studies suggest this enhances the effectiveness of Botox.
"I always recommend that patients smile or frown after wrinkle treatments, and the same principle applies here. Botox is a 'lunchtime treatment', with minimal side effects and only slight discomfort during the injection. At most, I might suggest avoiding saunas and massages for the first 24 hours, but even this is not a strict rule", says Dr. Milojević.
At the Milojević Polyclinic, patients receive a detailed discharge letter with all the necessary post-treatment instructions.