Bunny Lines (Nasalis) Anti-Wrinkle Injection Policy

Published:

November 4, 2025

1. Purpose

Provide a safe, evidence-based framework for botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) treatment of bunny lines (nasalis wrinkles) consistent with Australian medical governance and international clinical consensus. ¹

2. Scope

Applies to AHPRA-registered practitioners performing or supervising cosmetic injections targeting the nasalis muscle for reduction of dynamic nasal wrinkles. ¹

3. Governance (Australia)

Requires a face-to-face prescriber consultation, compliance with TGA advertising restrictions, and documentation consistent with NSQHS medication-safety standards. ¹

4. Regional Anatomy & Injection Mapping

Bunny lines form from hyperactivity of the transverse nasalis and occasionally the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi. Consensus technique: inject 1–2 U per side along the upper nasal sidewall, keeping 1 cm lateral to the nasal bridge to avoid diffusion. ⁴

5. Dosing (Guideline Based)

Typical total dose: 2–4 U per side (4–8 U total). Adjust per anatomy and muscle bulk; follow recognised consensus guidance and Australian regulatory requirements. ⁵

6. Contraindications

Defer in pregnancy, breastfeeding, local infection, or significant neuromuscular disorders. Review medical and allergy history before treatment. ²

7. Informed Consent & Risks

Explain realistic outcomes (softening, not elimination), small risk of asymmetry, mild bruising, or transient nasal obstruction from diffusion, and the need for repeat treatment every 3–4 months. ¹

8. Post-Treatment Care

Remain upright ≥ 4 h; avoid rubbing or massaging the nose, strenuous exercise, or saunas for 24–48 h; re-evaluate after 2 weeks. ²

9. Adverse Events & Management

Over-diffusion may cause mild flattening of nasal flare or temporary nasal stuffiness. Bruising is self-limiting; advise cold compress and reassurance. ⁶

10. Documentation & Audit

Record prescriber, injector, product, batch, expiry, dose, injection sites, consent, and follow-up notes. Maintain annual audits and at least 20 hours CPD per year. ³

Sources

AHPRA 2025, Guidelines for Cosmetic Medical and Surgical Procedures, Canberra., viewed 04 November 2025, https://www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2025-09-02-New-guidelines-for-cosmetic-procedures.aspx ↩
Queensland Health 2024, Beginner’s Guide to Cosmetic Injectables, Brisbane., viewed 04 November 2025, https://www.health.qld.gov.au/newsroom/news/beginner-friendly-guide-to-cosmetic-injectables ↩
Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) 2023, NSQHS Standards – Medication Safety, Sydney., viewed 04 November 2025, https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au ↩
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) 2022, Resident Training Guide: Dose, Dilution and Injection Technique for Botulinum Toxin Type A in Cosmetic Practice, ASDS Education Series., viewed 04 November 2025, https://www.asds.net/Portals/0/PDF/Resident-Kit-Allergan-BOTOX-Cosmetic-Dosing-Reconstitution-Tool.pdf ↩
AbbVie Medical Information 2024, Highlights of Prescribing Information – Botulinum Toxin Type A for Cosmetic Use (Glabellar and Periorbital Lines), US Label Reference., viewed 04 November 2025, https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/botox-cosmetic_pi.pdf ↩
Yi KH, Lee JH, Hu HW, Kim HJ., Novel Anatomical Guidelines on Botulinum Neurotoxin Injection for Wrinkles in the Nose Region. Toxins (Basel). 2022., viewed 04 November 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9144745/ ↩

Disclaimer for Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor Policies & Procedures

The policies and procedures contained within this document are the exclusive property of Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and are provided for internal clinical governance and educational purposes only. These materials represent the internal operational framework, safety standards, and evidence-based protocols developed and implemented by Dr. Bart John Scanlon and the Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor team. They are designed specifically for use within Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and reflect our clinic’s own professional standards, risk assessments, and compliance obligations under Australian law and regulatory authorities. External individuals, practitioners, or organisations must not copy, reproduce, distribute, or rely upon these materials, in whole or in part, for their own clinical, commercial, or educational use without prior written consent from Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor. These materials do not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice and are not intended to be adopted as official protocols or procedures by any other entity. Any external use or adaptation must be independently reviewed and modified to meet the relevant laws, guidelines, and standards applicable to the user’s own jurisdiction, scope of practice, and facility operations. Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and Dr. Bart Scanlon accept no liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the unauthorised use, reliance upon, or misinterpretation of this material.