Why does medical Botox cost more than cosmetic Botox?

February 2, 2017
Asked By:silvertwinkie in Boonton, NJ

I have Botox injections for a hemifacial spasm. My insurance no longer pays for the Botox so I began asking questions. Apparently, Botox can only be supplied for medical applications in 100 unit vials. My doctor uses less than 30 units, but I pay for 100 and the rest is disposed of. Why can smaller vials (50 units) be supplied for cosmetic procedures only? Do any neurologists charge per unit? Maybe insurance paid procedures are not questioned?

Answers (4)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
February 6, 2017

Answer: Cosmetic vs medical botox

MOST RECENT
February 6, 2017

Answer: Cosmetic vs medical botox

February 3, 2017

Answer: Medical vs Cosmetic Botox

February 3, 2017

Answer: Medical vs Cosmetic Botox

February 3, 2017

Answer: Botox

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
February 3, 2017

Answer: Botox

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

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February 3, 2017

Answer: Cosmetic and medical Botox

February 3, 2017

Answer: Cosmetic and medical Botox

Recommended reading

Botox

Everything you need to know about Botox

  • 97% worth it
  • 5.8k reviews
  • Avg cost: $553
Learn More
ADVERTISEMENT