Why Dilution Matters When It Comes to Botox Treatment

When it comes to Botox injections, achieving the best results isn’t just about the number of units used—it’s also about how the Botox is diluted and administered. Dilution plays a critical role in ensuring the effectiveness, longevity, and precision of your treatment. At John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery in San Diego, CA, we take a customized approach to Botox injections, carefully adjusting the dilution to suit each patient’s unique needs and treatment area.

The Science Behind Botox Dilution

Allergan, the manufacturer of Botox, recommends the standard dilution of mixing 2.5 cc to 4 cc of sterile saline solution with a 100-unit vial of Botox. This creates a concentration of 25 units per 1 cc of solution when using 4 cc of saline—a commonly used ratio for treating dynamic wrinkles on the forehead or crow’s feet.

However, not all areas of the face and neck require the same dilution. The appropriate concentration varies based on the size of the treatment area, muscle strength, and desired results. A more concentrated Botox solution may be used in targeted areas requiring precision, while a more diluted solution is often preferred for broader, more delicate areas.

Customized Botox Dilution for Different Treatment Areas

At John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery, we personalize each Botox treatment based on the patient’s aesthetic goals and facial anatomy. Here’s how dilution varies across different treatment areas:

• Forehead Lines: The standard 25 units per 1 cc dilution is commonly used for treating horizontal forehead lines. This concentration effectively smooths wrinkles while preserving some natural movement for an expressive, youthful appearance.
• Crow’s Feet: For the delicate area around the eyes, a slightly higher concentration may be used to ensure precise control while maintaining natural facial expressions.
• Bunny Lines: The small muscles on the nose require a more concentrated solution, allowing for targeted treatment without affecting surrounding areas.
• Botox Lip Flip: A more diluted Botox solution is ideal for the Botox Lip Flip, which subtly relaxes the muscles around the upper lip to enhance the shape without adding volume.
• Neck and Jawline: Broader areas like the neck and jawline require a more diluted Botox solution to gently soften wrinkles and sagging skin without compromising natural muscle movement.

How to Tell If Botox Has Been Over-Diluted

Some providers may over-dilute Botox to stretch the product, which can lead to weaker results, shorter-lasting effects, and uneven outcomes. At Hilinski Plastic Surgery, we ensure patients receive the correct dosage for optimal, natural-looking results by charging per unit, not per syringe or treatment area.

Trust an Expert for the Best Botox Results

Choosing an experienced provider who understands the importance of proper Botox dilution is key to achieving long-lasting, natural results. At John Hilinski, M.D. Plastic Surgery in San Diego, we use precision techniques to ensure every Botox treatment is tailored to your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals.

Schedule your consultation today to experience the difference of expertly diluted and administered Botox!