A Novel 3-Point Injection Technique for OnabotulinumtoxinA in the Upper Depressor Anguli Oris

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA) injections to the depressor anguli oris (DAO) to improve downturned mouth. PATIENTS AND METHODS/MATERIALS This prospective, placebo-controlled, study enrolled subjects aged 18 to 65 years. Injections were performed using a novel 3-point technique in the upper DAO (1.5 U/injection site). The primary end point was a DAO contraction scale 1-grade improvement. Subjective evaluation was performed using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). RESULTS Ten subjects received ONA and 10 placebo (saline) injections. In ONA-treated subjects, DAO scores showed significant improvements at Weeks 4 and 12 (p < .001) compared with baseline. No significant difference between visits was observed for placebo-injected subjects. Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores showed that 100% of subjects were improved compared with baseline at Week 4% and 90% at Week 12. By contrast, 90% and 80% of placebo-treated subjects had “no change” in their DAO appearance at Weeks 4 and 12. Subject GAIS assessments matched the live evaluator at Week 4; 60% continued to report improvement at Week 12. Treatment was well tolerated. CONCLUSION OnabotulinumtoxinA injections to the DAO using a 3-point technique provide clinically meaningful improvements in appearance. Treatment was well tolerated and in most individuals lasted at least 12 weeks. IDENTIFIER ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04240535.