Will handheld microcurrent home devices negate or cancel out the positive effects of botox-treated facial muscles?

Question

I spend a lot of money on weakening certain facial muscles with botox. I'm told that microcurrent devices like the NuFace will strengthen or stimulate facial muscles to give a more "lifted" or firm look to sagging muscles. I would like to use this microcurrent device but I'm concerned that in the process I will strengthen the very muscles I have paid to weaken. Please advise. Thanks.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Nothing negates the effect of botox once injected.  I suggest going to an experienced injector for the best results.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

These such devices will not negate the effects of Botox; however, they will not likely benefit you either.  I advise all patients to avoid massage, use of the clairsonic, and direct stimulation to the injected areas for a couple days after injections.  I feel only "core" injectors should perform cosmetic injectables (facial 
plastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, or occuloplastic 
surgeons).  This is because we all have a keen understanding of facial 
anatomy and the effects of injecting Botox/ Xeomin/ Dysport and fillers in different
 regions of the face.  Be sure you are seeing one of us, and I wish you well!

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Once the Botox takes effect those muscles are no longer contracting, therefore NuFace will not engage those muscles. If you use the device while your muscles are able to contract you may very well cause strengthening. Please be advised not to use microcurrent within 24 hours of your Botox treatment.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Judegal.  It's very unlikely that the microccurrent device will do anythign to affect your Botox results because it's very unlikely that the microcurrent device will do anything at all.  In addition, Botox is typically injected into the upper face and around the eyes, whereas the sagging that occurs as we age is normally in the cheeks.If you believe it's going to help with sagging muscles, then try using it on your cheeks, but for sagging, we would suggest a lower facelift or even injection treatments like Sculptra and Perlane as an alternative.  To learn more about sagging cheeks and Perlane injections, check the link below for before and after pictures of our Los Angeles patients.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

A microcurrent home devoce will not negate the effects of botox. Your injector may request that you delay the use of the device for a few days post botox treatment.

Steven Hacker, MD · Answer

The use of home devices does not impact the duration of effect that results from Botox injection. Caution to home devices in general as they may have other deleterious effects. Discuss with your dermatologist first.

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

I have actually seen people harm their muscles with devices like these because they try to train (and overtrain) muscles to work in ways they simply don't. I have a patient who still looks like she had a stroke after using a device like this and altering the ability of her cheek muscle to function properly. Since laypeople don't understand muscle structure, nor should you, I just think it's best to avoid things like this. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and 
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person 
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Will handheld microcurrent home devices negate or cancel out the positive effects of botox-treated facial muscles?

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