Cannot Smile After Botox for Migraines

Question

I Had Botox Injected in my Cheeks for Migraines and Now I Can't Smile. Is This a Normal Side Effect?

Ali Totonchi, MD · Answer

Cheek is not the location to inject Botox for Migraine Headache.Best,Ali Totonchi MD

Adam J. Oppenheimer, MD, FACS · Answer

There are seven key migraine trigger points that are amenable to injection with Botox. The first task for your surgeon is to determine if you indeed meet the International Headache Society criteria for chronic migraine headaches, and then to determine your migraine trigger point(s). The anatomic areas amenable (and FDA approved) for the injection of botulinum toxin are:CorrugatorProcerusFrontalisTemporalisOccipitalisParaspinal, andTrapeziusThese correspond closely to the Frontal, Temporal and Occipital trigger areas that are associated with migraine headaches. Injection into other areas are not indicated for the treatment of migraines. Nonetheless, the treatment effect is limited and should return normal muscle function within 3-4 months.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

As stated earlier, you shouldn't inject Botox in the cheeks because it will affect the movement of the zygomaticus muscle which raises the corners and the upper lip. There is nothing which can be done except let the Botox wear off over the next 3-4 months.

James Clayton, MD (retired) · Answer

Botox is normally not injected into the cheeks for either cosmetic reasons or to treat migraines. When Botox is injected into the cheeks it can weaken the muscles which are used when we smile. You will have to wait for the effects to wear off, which normally takes 3 to 4 months.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Botox isn't injected into the cheeks because it's a neuromodulator, meaning it inhibits muscle movement. I have no idea why you'd have Botox injected into your cheeks for migraines. Your Botox will wear off over the next 3-6 months, but until then you won't be able to smile properly because those cheek muscles aren't functioning properly.

Cannot Smile After Botox for Migraines

Answers (5)

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