Can Botox Trigger Trigeminal Neurolgia?

Question

I have had TN to the send and third branch of the nerve, but have thankfully been pain free for 18 months. I would like Botox around the eye and cheek area but am afraid it may trigger the TN? I have heard Botox can help TN but as I would be having it done by a cosmetic surgeon around the eye and cheeck could it have the opposite effect?

Christopher R. Hove, MD · Answer

It shouldn't, but unfortunately in medicine there are no guarantees (be wary if any doctor guarantees any result, even a particular response to a medication such as aspirin). Based on the pharmacology of Botox, I would not expect it from this drug, but the simple act of injecting may be a trigger.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

Treating the musculature around your eyes with cosmetic Botox shouldn't cause any issues and/or flare up with trigeminal neuralgia. If you haven't met with a reputable and well-trained and informed provider to weigh all of your options, that's a good place to start.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

While I don't have any personal experience using Botox to treat TN, there are several articles suggesting that it is beneficial. For that reason I think it is unlikely that cosmetic Botox would make it worse.

Can Botox Trigger Trigeminal Neurolgia?

Answers (3)