Daniel C. Mills, MD answers: Botox injections - who is qualified to administer them?

I'm thinking about getting Botox injections in my forehead but I don't know what qualifications/education pratitioners need to do Botox injections.  Can someone tell me who is qualified to give Botox injections?


Botox injections - Training, experience & knowledge of facial anatomy

Daniel C. Mills, MD
Daniel C. Mills, MD

In the state of California, Botox may be administered to a patient by an MD, Physician Assistant (PA), or Registered Nurse (RN).

PA's and RN's must work under the medical direction of a physician in order to inject Botox. RN's may inject Botox only after the patient has first been seen by the physician or physician assistant.

This is an answer as to the regulatory qualification. From the perspective of who is most qualified, you should consider the training and experience of the professional that you choose to administer your Botox.

Because Botox is as much about facial shaping as it is about relaxing wrinkles the provider should be well trained in facial anatomy. A board certified plastic surgeon is highly qualified to teach and train physician extendors (PA's and RN's). The most qualified provider is one who uses their knowledge to safely and individually consider each person's facial shape and animation in deciding on the treatment.

In my practice, I administer Botox as well as my PA's and RN's. Each of the PA's and RN's must complete a formal training with me in the use of Botox as well as dermal fillers. They are taught directly by me and are required to inject under my direct supervision during the training.

Continuing education is also important as we are constantly trying to improve our skills.

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