How much can you lie down following Botox injections?

Question

Had Botox today in my 11 line and a little in my forehead. Ran errands for about two hours before going home and then worked at my computer from my bed, pillows propped up so I could read, etc. Not fully lying down at all, more like really leaned back, but I started to fall asleep for about 15 minutes, then woke up. I didn't get any post op instructions but now I'm reading that lying down is bad for at least four hours after Botox. Do you think I'm in a safe zone? Thanks for your help.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

I have not found the need or reason to restrict movements or postures after injecting botox. It should not be the case for a typical procedure. However, you should ask the doctor who injected you in case they have a reason to do so.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I do not restrict any of my patients from any activity after botox injections.  I suggest seeing an expert if you are concerned.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Alan N. Larsen, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is recommended you do not touch or rub the area that is treated with Botox for at least 4-6 hours following treatment. Always consult with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to decide if Botox is right for you. Best wishes.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your
question in regards to Botox. It is recommended that you do not lay down for 4 hours after you injections so the Botox will not migrate to another area. Once your Botox takes effect within 5-7 days you will be able to notice. To be sure, see two
or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to
make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have
treatment. I hope this helps.

Gordon Andan, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. There are
several misconceptions about what you can and can’t do after receiving BOTOX®.
While some cosmetic surgeons recommend remaining upright for the first few
hours following your BOTOX® injections, there’s no research to support this
suggestion. The minimal amount of time that you were reclined should have no
impact on your results. If you notice any adverse side effects or cause for
concern, I would suggest letting your cosmetic surgeon know. Otherwise, you
should be able to expect a wonderful outcome from your injections.

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Remain upright and do not lay down for 4 hours after the
treatment.

Avoid makeup for 2 hours to the treated area and apply gently.

Exaggerate facial expressions in injected areas for 1 hour
(squint, frown, raise eyebrows, smile 30 times).

Do not participate in any strenuous exercise (straining, heavy
lifting, vigorous exercise, saunas) 
for the rest of the day.

Feel free to shower and go about most other regular daily
activities.

Do not massage, scratch or manipulate injection sites for 24
hours after your treatment. This includes facials, peels and microdermabrasion.

Cold
compresses may be used immediately after treatment to reduce swelling only if
needed. This may be applied for 3 minutes, 3 times per day, for up to 3 days.
This is best done with a bag of peas in a zip lock bag. Only apply light
pressure to the area.

Results are expected to start in 2-10 days and peak within 14
days after injection. In some patients, it may take up to 30 days to reach full
results. On average, results will last for 4-6 months.

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

I typically will recommend not lying completely flat for 3 hours after a botox injection. There isn't alot of science behind this but it is a precautionary measure. I don't think that this will be an issue seeing that you weren't lying flat for an extended period of time.

Martie Gidon, MD, FRCPC, FAAD · Answer

The reason it is recommended to not lie down for 4 hours after Botox injections is to avoid rubbing of the areas if you fall asleep.  You should not experience any problems with the activity you describe.

Victor Chung, MD · Answer

Instructions given after any procedure are designed to increase the chance of a good outcome. This typically means that you are asked to be overly cautious just for the slight chance of something happening. And some times this means doing things that are based on superstition instead of science. Typical instructions after a Botox injection procedure include no exercise, not lying down for 4 hours (belly sleepers), and no massaging. These are all thought to prevent the Botox from shifting around. I don't believe any of these recommendations are grounded in science. I do believe it helps my patients be aware that they just had a procedure and should be taking it easy.After any procedure, I like to give my patients instructions and after hours contact information. It is more important that they have a means to contact me with their questions.

Ben Talei, MD · Answer

Lying down should be no different than standing up or sitting forward.  In fact, being upright would probably be worse following the theory of Botox moving.  Ive never had a problem with patients lying down. Always best to do whatever your own doc says though, since we all have our own injection techniques

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How much can you lie down following Botox injections?

Answers (14)

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