3 months since I received my botox injections, but my facial features are now somewhat asymmetrical? (Photo)

Question

Hi there! this is the 1st time have received a botox injection below my eye sacks, eyelids, and forehead. Its been almost 3 months of recovery, but now when I try to have an neutral smile, my left side of the face seems unresponsive. It looks like my whole left face wont synchronize to my right's facial expression. My doctor said it could be Bell's Palsy? I'm surely don't know what to do at this point. Can someone help me with this?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox results last up to 3 to 4 months and can be softened with Venus Legacy and Thermage treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Botox results are temporary and typically wear off over 3 to 4 months, though that can vary by patient.  There is no reversal agent for Botox.  I encourage you to speak to your primary care physician if Bell's Palsy is suspected.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Botox generally lasts 3-4 months, however, there are patients where it may last as long as 6-7 months (slowly resolving).
I do not think it is Bell's palsy with your injection history.  It seems that a few fibers of the Levator labii superioris and Zygomaticus major and minor muscles are weakened by the Botox.  
It should  return to normal over the next few months.

Dr. T

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

From your photos, the weakness of your left sided levator labii musculature is noted. Botox is a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum which temporarily paralyzes muscle into which it is injected for a period of 3-4 months. On occasion, the toxin may drift a distance away from the injection site causing unintended weakness or paralysis of the involved musculature. The levator musculature is in close proximity to the eyelid muscles.There is no way to reverse this temporary weakness. Over the next month or so, the effect should dissipate.Bell's palsy is another possibility but the timing appears significant, suggesting cause and effect.Practice exercising your oral musculature in front of a mirror several times / day. This phenomenon should totally resolve.Best wishes...

3 months since I received my botox injections, but my facial features are now somewhat asymmetrical? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Unintended Botox effect

Answer: Unintended Botox effect

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3 months since I received my botox injections, but my facial features are now somewhat asymmetrical? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Unintended Botox effect

Answer: Unintended Botox effect

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.