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Who is Qualified to Inject Botox?

asked 4 years ago by anon
Latest answer by Robert L. Kraft, MD
Question viewed 80,343 times
Tags: dermatologist, facial plastic surgeon, plastic surgeon, qualifications, specialist

I'm thinking about getting Botox injections in my forehead but I don't know what qualifications/education pratitioners need to do Botox injections. 

37 answers to Who is Qualified to Inject Botox?

+1

Who is allowed to inject Botox

There are a lot of excellent answers regarding this question. Obviously there are some differences from state to state as each state regulates which practitioners are allowed to perform the injections. While title is clearly important from a regulatory standpoint, some of the most skilled injectors in our area are nurses. In many cases this is because the physician at the practice is performing surgery or some other higher margin procedure and injections are left to the nurse, nurse... more
Harold J. Kaplan, MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.celibre.com

+7

The important thing is first to recognize that Botox...

The important thing is first to recognize that Botox injection is a medical procedure, so it must be done by a medical professional. Some believe that it must be done by a medical doctor, or by a nurse under the on-site supervision of an M.D., but the truth is that there are nurse injectors who are extremely talented and experienced. There are no uniform standards for training, but it is best to make sure that it is done in a clinic setting, where it is clear who the supervising doctor is,... more
Richard Baxter, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon
+6

Botox qualifications

Each state sets its own standards on who can inject. In Florida, it is a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practictioner. It is important to go with the requisite expertience and expertise.
Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS

West Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon

www.drkrisreddy.com

+6

3 Signs Your Injector Isn't Qualified

Listen as Dr. Julius Few, spokesperson for the Physicians Coalition for Injectable Safety, describes warning signs to look for when choosing a cosmetic injectable provider. According to Dr. Few, anyone buying Botox or other cosmetic injections should watch out for providers who: Won't disclose which substance(s) they are injecting Won't openly discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment Try to pressure you into buying treatments you don't want Dr. Few also stresses the importance of... more
Julius W. Few, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+6

Botox & other cosmetic injections

There are good arguments on either side of this issue. My feeling, as a physician and surgeon, is that an adequately trained RN, is more than capable of providing safe and effective cosmetic injections (Botox & Fillers). I also feel that RNs should perform such treatments ONLY with a trained physician present on site. Although an allergic reaction is not a common reaction from Botox, it certainly can happen with fillers, as can other complications such as intravascular injection with... more
Sam Naficy, MD

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
+4

Botox, not who CAN, it's who SHOULD inject

States regulate who can and can't inject.  Generally physicians and those under the supervision of a physician (i.e. nurses or certified medical assistants) can inject.  Aestheticians can not purchase the product and can not inject in most states.  However, the medical director of a spa will sometimes purchase the product and authorize the aestheticians to inject.  This is risky for all involved.  The bigger question is not who CAN inject, but who SHOULD... more
John Bitner, MD

Salt Lake City Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.drjohnbitner.com

+4

Board certification and experience essential for Botox injectors

In Los Angeles, the cosmetic market is inundated with medical spas performing Botox injection. Experience is key and the best advice is to defer to an experienced and board certified surgeon in your area. The technique of injection is very important in the overall effect of Botox injection. There are many nurse practitioners and nurses who can inject, but this is dependent on the state you live in. Always look at credentials of the physician's clinic you are going to for Botox. Ask a lot of... more
Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
+4

Who is Qualified to Administer Botox?

This is an interesting question and comes at a time when we are seeing doctors from many different specialties providing Botox treatments, and sadly, we are seeing many non-doctors and in some cases, beauty and skin technicians giving Botox! Botox is an amazing and revolutionary drug and, when used correctly and by properly trained specialists, is wonderful. However, when it is not used by properly trained and educated specialist physicians, it can cause severe adverse events and has even... more
Arnold W. Klein, MD

Beverly Hills Dermatologic Surgeon
+3

Botox Injectors

Your best option to get the full result possible with Botox and avoid potential complications is to have your treatment performed by a well trained and experience physician with extensive experience with Botox. The first husband and wife team who discovered the cosmetic utility of Botox were a dermatologist and oculoplastic surgeon. In general, your best best are dermatologists, oculoplastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, but make sure that the doctor has extensive experience in your procedure... more
Andrew Kaufman, MD

Los Angeles Dermatologic Surgeon
+3

Botox injections in Toronto

Botox can be injected by a trained physician or a nurse under a physician's supervision. Look for a reputable clinic and avoid 'Botox shops' to avoid potential complications. Sincerely, Martin Jugenburg, MD
Martin Jugenburg, MD

Toronto Plastic Surgeon

www.torontosurgery.ca

+3

Nurses and Botox

Under the direction of Dr. Zubowicz our highly trained nurses who have had advanced training (and continue in advanced training) provide injectable service to all of our clients.
Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD

Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
+3

Anyone with a medical license can inject botox

The rules vary by state but MDs, DOs can inject botox anywhere in the United States. In some states Nurse practioners are allowed to inject botox. As long as someone is familiar with the anatomy, it should be fine. Remember, botox wears off in 3-4 months so the risks are relatively small. There are small risks however and I have had to treat patients treated by surgeons, nonsurgeons and nonphysicians who have trouble closing their eyes after overaggressive botox. Granted... more
Chris Thiagarajah, MD

Washington DC Oculoplastic Surgeon
+3

In most states, only physicians administer Botox

There are many medical practices offering Botox and feelers injections. Before making a decision about choosing one practice above the other, you should research and seek the best in your area. It is always safe to go with the experienced, board certified plastic surgeon. There are many resources to help you to find the one. I would also get some referrals from the Allergen website, the company that makes Botox. Look for high volume providers - platinum and above.
Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+3

Botox injectors

As stated in numerous other comments, State regulatory agencies govern who can inject Botox and this varies state by state. However, I also have to agree that it helps to understand the complex anatomy of each area. Physicians and surgeons, especially have a unique understanding of the anatomy and physiology and are particularly qualified to perform this procedure. I believe that is the over-riding concern. However, clearly this may be balanced against one's experience.
Otto Joseph Placik, MD

Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+3

Who can inject Botox?

Basically, anyone can inject it, but to inject it well... that is another matter entirely. Unfortunately, Botox isn't quite as simple as just putting it into you. It takes skill and technique to get the really good results and typically that means that you have to have an MD, and usually a good dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon, to do it. What I see is that many people are going to fly-by-night clinics for their Botox and it is being diluted significantly and frequently done so poorly that... more
Joel Schlessinger, MD

Omaha Dermatologist

www.LovelySkin.com

+3

Botox qualification - stay away from the gas station attendant

Hi Nicole, Botox injections are a medical procedure. You will find that just about anyone with a nursing, dental, or medical degree (and even some without a degree of any sort) is injecting Botox and other facial fillers. There have been unscrupulous providers who have even used "Botox for Experimental Animal Use". The recent stir about the safety of Botox has nothing to do with the cosmetic use of the anti-wrinkle miracle drug. It is still as safe as ever to have a few of your... more
Michael A. Persky, MD

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Botox

State laws vary state to state on who can administer botox. The important thing to remember is who should be injecting your botox? It's your face, you should want the most qualified person for the job. Personally I would refrain from "med" type spas who are usually under the supervision of a M.D that rarely visits the location. In my practice I am the only one who injects, being a Surgeon who specializes in facial plastics, its important to have a... more
Hannah Vargas, MD

Kansas City Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Botox - who can inject?

Legally, any doctor or nurse under the supervision of a doctor can inject Botox.  However, like anything else, use your best judgement in choosing who administers your Botox.  An MD with a good understanding of facial anatomy would be recommended to give you the safest and best results.  My patients specifically want to have a plastic surgeon inject their BOTOX.  I'd also recommend asking your friends and other referral sources about their experiences when... more
Catherine Huang-Begovic, MD

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon
+2

Botox injections - see an specialist

Although anyone with a medical is allowed to inject Botox, not everybody has the necessary experience. Dermatologists are the specialist for the treatment of the skin, so many patients see a dermatologist for their wrinkle treatments.
Robert Kasten, MD

Mainz Dermatologic Surgeon
+2

Qualifications to inject Botox

The two most common specialties that inject botox are dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Many other specialties have joined in doing this wonderful treatment. As long as the doctor is educated about the anatomy of the musculature that is being treated and has ample experience in the technique of delivering botox, then the result may be as good as if they were either a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. you should get recommendations from your general physician and friends. more
Ronald Shelton, MD

Manhattan Dermatologist
+1

Botox injector qualificationsl

Legally, anyone with a medical license or a nurse working under the direction of a physician can inject Botox. The antitrust laws against restraint of trade are applicable to the practice of medicine with the result that any doctor can purchase and inject Botox and fillers. Many do because this is lucrative, fee for service medicine. However, caveat emptor! You should seek treatment by a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist who has been trained in these techniques and has the... more
Robert L. Kraft, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon
+1

Make sure they are qualified!

As Botox becomes more and more popular, you may be noticing that different types of doctors as well as spas are offering these treatments. To minimize the dangers I suggest using a board certified dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon, who is aware of the anatomy of the facial muscles and has had much practice.
Yael Halaas, MD

Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Board-certified providers should inject Botox

It's a neurotoxin, and you are putting it in your face. There are potential risks and side effects associated. Your best bet is a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has special training and expertise in this field. Good luck, Dr. Rupani
Reena Rupani, MD

New York Dermatologist
+1

Its your face, so get injections from a board certified provider.

Cosmetic injections with botulinum (Dysport or Botox) are not like getting your hair or nails done.   Be prudent!  Appropriately board certified providers (plastic surgeons, dermatologists) are most likely get you the results you're looking for, with the least possible risk.  I tell patients to avoid nurse injectors or physicians who aren't full time cosmetic providers with the appropriate board certification to prove it.  If... more
Randolph Capone, MD

Baltimore Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.baltimorefaces.com

+1

Who is qualified to inject BOTOX?

Who is qualified to inject and who can inject are both excellent questions.  The answer for who can inject BOTOX is determined by the laws in each particular state.  Foe example, in the State of California, a registered nurse or physician assistant, under a physician's supervision can legally inject BOTOX.  So long as they are a licensed practitioner working under a licensed MD it is allowed.  The issue of supervision is a gray zone.  In my opinion,... more
Barry Stuart Handler, MD

San Diego Plastic Surgeon
+1

Botox doctor

While an injection of medication can be performed by any medical doctor, I would recommend that you see a core physician such as a plastic surgeon, dermatologist, facial plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon who is trained in aesthetic procedures.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon
+1

Botox and Dysport should be performed by board-certified aesthetic physician

Definitely seek out board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon if you can. You would not want to see a dermatologist if you need to have childbirth delivery. Avoid comparison shopping based on price alone as Botox/Dysport and fillers injections do require expertise and artistry that are afforded by experienced board-certified physicians.
William Ting, MD

Bay Area Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Qualifications for injecting BOTOX

Currently there is a free for all as far as who is injecting BOTOX. There are specialists with extensive training like dermatologists and plastic surgeons injecting, then there are other doctors (e.g. ENT, ophthalmologists, general practitioners, OB/Gynes, Internists), nurses, and even dentists. Since we're talking about treating your face, we want to have great, natural looking results with optimal safety -- my biased opinion would be to go with a specialist such as a dermatologist or... more
Benjamin Barankin, MD

Toronto Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Botox injector qualifications

Although ANYBODY with a medical license or "supervised" (even "off site") by anyone with a medical license CAN inject Botox, I would NOT have them treat me, my family or friends. For the best possible results, insist on having a Plastic Surgeon, ENT or Dermatologist personally inject YOUR Botox. There is NO substitute for experience. Although I could delegate it, in my practice I administer Botox and very much enjoy doing it.
Peter A. Aldea, MD

Memphis Plastic Surgeon
+1

Botox can be injected by any licensed practitioner

Botox can be injected by any licensed practitioner. While it may be my personal opinion that certain types of practitioners are more suited to perform botox injections than others, the reality of the situation is that botox can be injected by nurses in most states, physician assistants, and all physicians. There is nothing to prevent any specialty from performing this procedure. My personal opinion is to go to someone with a lot of experience; however, even in the wrong hands a bad result is... more
Scott Trimas, MD

Jacksonville Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Qualified or Quantified?

You ask who is qualified to inject Botox. The product is sold to any doctor, even dentists are using it. So it goes deeper than who is using it and how much are they doing. You could be doing something wrong for years and not know it. So look for experts in skin and facial anatomy. Dermatologists, plastic surgeons. facial plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons. These are the skin and facial anatomy experts who can maximize your results while minimizing any chance of complications. Dont... more
Shawn Allen, MD

Boulder Dermatologist
+1

Find top Botox injectors through Allergan

The Botox Cosmetic website is a great source of information. It can also help you find a "Diamond Level" provider in your area. The "diamond level" practices generally use a lot of Botox, and that means a lot of experience. That also means more rebates and specials only available through the top providers of Botox.  You should still ask questions about how long the injector has been using Botox Cosmetic and how many patients they see each week for Botox. View... more
Michael Law, MD

Raleigh-Durham Plastic Surgeon

michaellawmd.com

+1

Several considerations when choosing Botox providers

This is a great question! I agree with my colleagues responses - obviously training, experience, and knowledge of the facial anatomy are important. There is one other point that needs to be made. There is a growing problem in California (and probably in other States as well) with regards to the "Corporate Practice of Medicine" which is made possible, in large part, by the administration of Botox. Botox was the #1 cosmetic procedure in 2008 - more than the top two cosmetic... more
Daniel Reichner, MD

Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon
+1

In the state of California, Botox may be administered to...

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... more
Dan Mills, MD

Orange County Plastic Surgeon
+1

Botox practitioners

Thefollowing board certified medical specialties are appropriate to administer Botox or Dysport: Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, Ophthalmology. I would recommend only physicians that have had extensive experience administering Botox. I do not recommend non-physicians to administer Botox or Dysport. 
Steven Hacker, MD

West Palm Beach Dermatologic Surgeon

www.palmbeachdermasurgery.com

+1

Botox and Safety

From time to time, there has been mention of Botox having caused death. The majority of these cases were being treated for Cerebral Palsy and other neurological disorders. The doses being injected were given during a scientific study and were massive by cosmetic standards. Just to give you an example, the doses used in the scientific study were in the range of up to 700 units. For cosmetic purposes we use a maximum of 75 units. Usually we only use 20 to 40 units. It is very important... more
Henri P. Gaboriau, MD

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon
+1

Stick to the MDs for Botox

Best people who are qualified are those who know what they're injecting. Dermatologists, ophthalmologists and plastic surgeons are the ones who use it the most and know the underlying anatomy. It is always a safe bet to have them perform the injections for you. I would steer away from non-MD injectors. It is always better to pay that extra price and have it done right rather than live the effects of the material for 3-4 months till its gone.
Hassan Galadari, MD

Dubai Dermatologist

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