Glabella Botoxin Gangnam, Seoul
Glabella Botox targets the vertical frown lines between the brows — often called the “11” lines — by relaxing the corrugator and procerus muscles that pull the brows together. At QD Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, we assess how you frown first, then decide the injection points and dose. A session usually takes about 10–15 minutes with little downtime. (Results vary by individual.)
Who it’s for
- Vertical “11” lines between the brows that deepen when you frown
- A tired or stern look from habitual frowning
- Dynamic lines rather than fixed, resting creases
- Anyone who prefers a non-surgical option with minimal downtime
Deep lines that remain at rest may be combined with other options such as filler, decided at consultation.
How it works
Botulinum toxin type A temporarily reduces the pull of the corrugator and procerus muscles that draw the brows inward and downward when you frown. With less muscle activity, the skin between the brows creases less and the frown softens. The effect is temporary and gradually wears off as nerve signalling returns.
THE MECHANISM, STEP BY STEP
01Blocks the nerve-to-muscle signal
Botulinum toxin type A binds at the neuromuscular junction and blocks the release of acetylcholine — the chemical a nerve uses to tell a muscle to contract. The treated muscle then relaxes and pulls on the skin less.
02Eases the inward-and-downward pull
These frown muscles pull the brows in and down. With their pull reduced, the skin between the brows creases less and the frown softens.
03Builds up over a few days
The block takes effect gradually on the treated nerve endings, which is why lines soften over several days rather than immediately.
04Wears off as nerves recover
The body forms new nerve-terminal connections over time, so signalling returns, movement comes back and the effect fades — which is why the treatment is repeated.
Treatment areas
- Vertical frown lines
- The “11” lines between the brows.
- Brow area balance
- Often planned with the forehead so the brow position stays natural.
What the procedure is like
- 1Consultation and assessment of how you frown
- 2Cleansing and marking of injection points
- 3Fine-needle injections into the corrugator and procerus
- 4Brief pressure and aftercare guidance
Time: A session usually takes about 10–15 minutes.
Recovery & aftercare
- Little to no downtime; most people return to daily activities the same day.
- Temporary redness, small bumps or mild bruising may occur.
- Avoid rubbing the area, lying down flat or intense exercise for a few hours, and follow the aftercare guidance we provide.
What to expect over time
A general guide to how the days and months after treatment usually unfold. Results vary by individual.
DAY 0 Injection day
Fine-needle injections into the corrugator and procerus take about 10–15 minutes. Brief redness, small bumps or mild bruising may occur and usually settle within hours. Most people return to daily activities the same day.
DAY 2-4 Onset begins
Many people notice the frown feeling softer as movement eases. Timing varies from person to person.
~2 WEEKS Full effect settles
The effect reaches its full extent and is best assessed around this point. Any minor adjustment is reviewed now. (Results vary by individual.)
3-4 MONTHS Gradual return
Muscle activity returns gradually and the frown lines slowly reappear. Duration differs with dose, muscle strength and metabolism. (Results vary by individual.)
REPEAT Maintenance
A repeat session is timed at consultation once movement returns, rather than on a fixed date.
Sessions & results
Effects usually begin within a few days and settle by about two weeks, then last roughly 3–4 months as muscle activity gradually returns. Repeat sessions are timed at consultation. (Results vary by individual.)
How it compares
These approaches target the frown area differently, so the right choice depends on whether the “11” lines appear with movement or stay at rest.
| Comparison | Glabella Botox | Hyaluronic-acid filler | Skin boosters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach | Botulinum toxin type A relaxes the corrugator and procerus | Hyaluronic acid supports a deep, fixed crease | Injectable hydration for surface quality |
| Targets | Dynamic “11” lines that deepen when frowning | Lines that remain visible at rest | Fine surface texture between the brows |
| Onset | Over a few days | Immediate, settling over days | Gradual over weeks |
| Duration | About 3–4 months | Varies by product and area | Varies; a series is common |
| Downtime | Little to none | Little to none; bruising possible | Little to none |
Neither is “better” — they work differently and suit different goals. The right choice is decided after we assess your skin.
Safety & considerations
Possible reactions
- Temporary redness, small bumps or mild bruising at the injection points
- A short-lived headache or a feeling of tightness between the brows in the first days
- Slight asymmetry or an unusual brow position that eases as the effect settles or wears off
- Rarely, temporary drooping of a brow or upper eyelid if the toxin spreads to nearby muscle
When to take extra care
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding — let us know at consultation
- Neuromuscular disorders such as myasthenia gravis or Lambert–Eaton syndrome
- Certain medications, including aminoglycoside antibiotics or muscle relaxants — tell your doctor
- A known allergy to botulinum toxin or any ingredient in the product
- Active skin infection or inflammation at the injection site
Whether botulinum toxin suits you, and the dose for how you frown, is confirmed at consultation. Effects and duration vary by individual, and side effects may occur.
Your care at QD Clinic
Performed by a board-certified doctor
Your injections are performed and medically reviewed by a board-certified doctor, not delegated unsupervised.
Planned around how you frown
We assess your frown pattern so the “11” lines soften while the brow keeps a natural, balanced position.
Care in your language
Consultation in English, with 中文 and 日本語 support arranged on request — including questions before you travel.
A short walk from Gangnam Station
Central Seoul location with guidance from the airport and nearby hotels, and hours shown in KST.
Pricing
Pricing depends on the dose and the areas treated. Please consult us for a personalized quote.
Frequently asked questions
Dosing is planned to soften the frown while keeping natural movement. The amount is decided after we see how you frown. (Results vary by individual.)
A brief pinching sensation can occur with each fine-needle injection. Comfort options are discussed at consultation.
Changes usually begin within a few days, settle by about two weeks and last roughly 3–4 months. (Results vary by individual.)
Lines still visible when relaxed may be addressed alongside other options such as filler. This is decided at consultation.
Little to none. Temporary redness, small bumps or mild bruising may occur and usually settle quickly.
Yes. Our doctors consult in English directly, and 中文 / 日本語 can be arranged in advance. Tell us your language on WhatsApp before your visit.
Often considered together
Treatments that are sometimes planned alongside this one, decided at consultation.
+Forehead Botox
The forehead and frown muscles work against each other, so treating them together helps keep the brow balanced.
+Eye-Area Botox
Crow’s feet are often planned with the frown area for an even upper-face result.
+Dermal filler
Deep “11” lines still visible at rest may be softened with filler in addition to toxin — sequencing is decided by your doctor.
For international patients
Consultation in English / 中文 / 日本語 · WhatsApp · WeChat · KakaoTalk · a 4-minute walk from Sinnonhyeon / Nonhyeon Station (hours in KST) · card payment.
For International PatientsMedically reviewed by Dr. Sahyeok Hong, board-certified plastic surgeon and Director of QD Clinic.