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Except for brow positioning, the upper face rating scales are reliable tools for valid and reproducible assessment of the aging process.

A variety of biodegradable and nonbiodegradable filling agents are available or under investigation in the United States. Choice of product depends on injector preference and the area to be filled. Although permanent agents offer significant clinical benefits, modern biodegradable fillers are durable and often reversible in the event of adverse effects.

Eighteen patients with glabellar frown lines were treated with C. botulinum-A exotoxin. Sixteen of the 17 patients followed showed improvement for periods ranging from 3 months to 11 months. Side-effects were minimal and transient. Because C. botulinum-A exotoxin therapy of glabellar frown lines treats the underlying cause of these lines, it is more effective than soft tissue augmentation although this improvement is temporary. Treatment with C. botulinum-A exotoxin is a simple, safe procedure.

Male participants with glabellar rhytids benefit from starting doses of at least 40 U of botulinum toxin type A.

Twenty to 40 U botulinum toxin type A doses were significantly more effective at reducing glabellar lines than 10 U. Most subjects experienced benefits for 3 to 4 months; some subjects demonstrated effect for up to 12 months.

The 5-point photonumeric scale generated spans the severity of marionette lines for which patients commonly seek correction. The scale is well stratified for consistent rating.