Can Botox distort your face?

Question

At rest my face seems to have fallen and looks puffy. When I smile my face looks fat. Can only 6 units of Botox do this? Also my crows feet’s look worse!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without before and after pictures. It can take 1-2 weeks for final results with Botox. Botox results resolve in 3-4 months. If you're unhappy with your final results, venus legacy can give improvement. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your unexpected outcome.  If Botox causes unintended paralysis of facial muscles it can negatively impact your facial appearance. Unfortunately without photographs to know what has taken place I would return to your injector to ask for their assistance - there may be measures to minimize the distortion

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

This sounds unfortunate! It is hard to clearly state what might be going on without a photo or in person evaluation.  It is unlikely that only six units would do this but depends on where the units are placed.  I recommend that you see your board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with cosmetic training to open a treatment dialogue.

Megan Jack, MD · Answer

Yes, certainly it can.  Depending on the amount of product injected, location of injection, etc it can alter your facial movement.  Botox and other neurotoxins work by relaxing the muscles of the face to soften them and minimize wrinkling.  The effect can be seen as early as a few days and full effect at 10-14 days.  The results typically last 3-4 months on average.  The injection should cause very minimal, temporary swelling so facial puffiness after injection would be unusual.  6 units of Botox is a VERY small dose so unlikely to have a significant effect unless focally placed in an area for a very specific reason.  You should follow up with your injector for an assessment and see if additional treatment for correction is indicated. As always, please make sure to consult and receive treatment by board-certified plastic surgeons and dermatologists.  Good luck!

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

if you had a total of only 6 units that is not enough to do much of anything good or bad.  if the zygomaticus under the eye was hit with Botox it is possible to look puffy and distorted but the amount is not enough. see melvinelsonmd.net

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello tinastonisch,6 units of Botox is a very low dose and would not be expected to alter your face in anyway.  That is barely enough of a dose to help soften your crow's feet let alone fully treat them.  If you feel your face looks fallen and puffy you may consider being seen by your primary care doctor to make sure nothing else is going on.I hope this helps and good luck.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

The amount of Botox that was used on you was extremely small. Without seeing you in person, a set of photographs or knowing where botox was injected, it is difficult to answer your question. Good luck from New York City

Ivy DeRosa, DO · Answer

Hi, sorry you are unhappy with your treatment. I am not sure where your botox was placed- it sounds like you wanted your crows feet softened, but if your injector was not trained properly, its possible they hit your zygomaticus muscle, when this is done and you try to smile you get sort of a shelf under your eyes, almost a puffy cheek look. It hopefully will not last too long, and is definitely not permanent!

Can Botox distort your face?

Answers (8)

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