Tender Lumps and Swelling After Botox to the Forehead

Question

I had botox injected in my forehead for the first time 48 hours ago. Soon after, I had some swelling at the injection site. I feel sick (flu like symptoms). I still have lumps/swelling and mild pain to-the-touch where it was injected. Is this common? Is it safe to take Benadryl for the swelling?

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Swelling is possible everytime a needle penetrates the skin.  Having said that, I typically find that the degree of swelling varies based on the treatment and location.  For example, swelling after Botox is usually minimal (unless you bruise).  Juvederm in the nasolabial folds also has minimal swelling.  Juvderm in the lips, however, can result in a lot of swelling.  It's a good treatment to do on Friday so the swelling can be reduced by Monday.I would give this a few more days to resolve.  Benadryl is safe to take during this time but may not help with the swelling.  I would also visit with your physician who injected you to let them be aware of what is going on.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Often there will be small lumps at the injection site secondary to the volume deposited.  There can be some residual swelling for a little while.  It can also be something more complicated like a hematoma, (rare).  Of note is your description of "flu like symptoms."  Best to contact the doctor where you got your injections, and make him/her aware of what is going on.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

There are a variety of explanations for your findings but in any event you should report these promptly to your physician or practitioner.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Any time any product is inected there is a risk of bruising. These can be tender. Flu-like symptoms *re very rare but might be related to some small amunt of the Botox getting into a small vein. This would not be an allergic reaction and would not prevent you from having the Botox again but be sure to mention your side effect to your doctor.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi,

	the tender lumps and swelling are from bleeding under the skin or within the muscle.  The first 48 hours cold compresses are helpful, the next 48 hours warm compresses.  Benadryl helps with allergic swelling, not swelling from bruises. Rarely do patients have flu like symptoms, these usually go away within a day or so.

	Good luck and be well.

	Dr. P

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Answers (9)

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