Facial laser after botox?

Question

I bought 3 trinity laser treatments that I need to get done. I recently had botox and was told not to do any facial laser treatments as it would make the effects of botox go away faster. Is this true? Should I wait to get my laser treatments (3 months)?

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Most of my colleagues have no concerns to perform laser resurfacing one to two weeks post Botox injections. I have performed this for many years and have had no reduction of longevity of the Botox effectiveness. We tend to perform Botox shortly (one to two weeks) prior to laser resurfacing to reduce muscular tension in newly healing skin so it regenerates on a smoother foundation.The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

The effects of Botox should not go away faster if you have laser treatment, but Botox and Dysport can migrate so waiting 1 to 2 weeks might be a good idea. Best, Dr. ALDO

David W. Kim, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. We frequently treat patients with lasers a few days after they have had a Botox treatment (sometimes even the same day, depending on the laser). I would not be concerned about the Botox wearing off any faster as a result of a laser treatment.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Many people use laser and botox on the same day, I do in my practice.  There is little risk of diffuse spreading of the Botox, so some will advise to wait 2 weeks. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Botox is a neurotoxin used to remove wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing muscles. Laser treatment does not cause Botox to wear off faster. You only have to wait a few days after Botox treatment to receive laser treatment to avoid spreading to other areas. Remember to see an expert.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Botox is a neurotoxin used to remove wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing muscles. Laser treatment does not cause Botox to wear off faster. You only have to wait a few days after Botox treatment to receive laser treatment to avoid spreading to other areas. Remember to see an expert.

Reza Tirgari, MD · Answer

Given the heat that results from any laser treatment, we tend to be very cautious and wait at least 1 week after Botox treatments before any facial laser treatments are done.  This helps avoid the unwanted spread of Botox which can affect final results or lead to complications.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for
your question NicoleRyder. Botox is
a purified protein used to address wrinkles associated with facial expression. Treatments with lasers may heat up the skin and possibly cause swelling, either of which may lead to increased diffusion of Botox. If Botox spreads to nearby muscles there may be side effects such as droopy eyelids. For this reason I recommend waiting one week after a Botox treatment before a laser treatment. That being said, I have colleagues who routinely perform both treatments on the same day. Please consult with
a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

The laser treatment will not affect the longevity of the Botox results. Many physicians including myself commonly perform combination treatment with Botox, fillers and lasers on the same day. That being said, there is some (minimal) risk of spread of the Botox and so some providers may wait to perform the laser treatment. It is physician dependent. I would discuss with your treating physician. See an expert.

Andrew Pichler, MD · Answer

I would recommend waiting 6-7 days until the Botox effect is complete. Then it's perfectly ok to go ahead with laser treatments.

Facial laser after botox?

Answers (13)