Can botox affect you later down the road?

Question

Hello, I am very curious to the research there is on botox and the affects it has later down the road. Should I be concerned?

Cory Bovenzi, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question! The effects of botox are short-lived in the 3-4 month timeframe. I have not seen any long-term issues with botox use. Hope this helps!

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Vee Thank you for your question about Botox. I have broadened my answer to include all the neurotoxins. Botox is the brand name for one 5 neurotoxin use to treat dynamic wrinkles and muscle spasms.  The Newtox / Jeuveau , Xeomin, Dysport, Daxxify, and Botox. There are no known long term side effects of the neurotoxins.  There can be a self limited short term side effect like lowered eyebrow. There have a few rare reports of short term side effects related to overdosing and allergic reactions in the 20 years of use. The vast majority of these rare side effect occurred with use of neurotoxin for treatment of medical conditions and not for esthetic or cosmetic uses.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox is not harmful. This has been used for years safely. There are side effects that can occur like causing skin sagging, and changing the mouth opening if not injected properly but that isn't harmful. I suggest dermarolling at home to give the skin Botox-like effects with at-home treatment. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Marek Kacki, MD · Answer

Although the existing forms of botulinum toxins used for aesthetic purpose are in general safe, there are well described long term effects that can be rather devastating. This long term side effect is called the Impaired Neuronal Communication Syndrome (INCS) that manifests itself in many ways related to Central Nervous System, peripheral nervous system, autonomic nervous system including hypothalamic syndrome as well as psychiatric disturbances. The INCS is considered a very rare complication, related to distant spread of the toxin. With only about 300 cases reported the question remains whether the illness is indeed very rare indeed or just very rarely diagnosed due to lack of awareness and diagnostic limitations? 
In summary, considering the number of Botox injections around the world , the product is quite safe. Yet, denying a possibility of rare, at times debilitating, long term side effects limits our credibility.

Geeta Yadav, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! Studies have found Botox to be both safe and effective for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movement. It typically lasts only three to four months, with minimal side effects or complications. This product has been FDA approved for over twenty years, and most people have a favorable outcome with no long-term side effects after undergoing Botox treatment. That said, it’s possible for Botox to cause temporary complications like muscle atrophy or facial drooping, both of which should resolve on their own. The risk of experiencing these complications drops dramatically when being treated by a skilled provider. Hope this helps!

Amir Mortazavi, MD · Answer

Botox's job is to reduce the muscle activity. As such any muscle with reduced activity can atrophy (gets less bulky and smaller). This is both a wanted and unwanted effect. Some studies show that the muscle atrophy in the long run can cause some changes such as hollowing of the areas treated like the muscles in the forehead but this is usually seen with over use and treatment. its not so common but in short to answer your question it can. Dermal fillers can always be used to correct this.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Botox was approved by the FDA in 1989 for certain medical conditions, and then in 2002 for cosmetic purposes.  Serious side effects are rare and the product has been used by millions.  It is considered a safe and effective treatment to soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by dynamic muscles.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

We now have over 25 years of experience using botulinum toxins (e.g. Botox) for numerous indications (cosmetic, hyperhidrosis, bladder dysfunction, strabismus and blepharospasm, Raynaud's disease, club foot, cerebral palsy, post-stroke spasticity and more). it has been used globally in millions & millions of people of all ages & ethnicities, and we have yet to see any "down the road" side effects. Its a simple communication blocker that stops nerves from talking to muscles and to sweat glands.

Rita Rakus, MBBS - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Botulinum toxin has been used medically and cosmetically for decades- it is a temporary acting muscle relaxant and completely wears off. There have been no long term side effects of toxin use over time. I hope that helps answer your question. Always seek an experienced and qualified medical professional for these treatments. Very best wishes

Can botox affect you later down the road?

Answers (9)

More Botox Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (9)

More Botox Questions

Is there a way to improve asymmetry in my lower face? (Photo)

Do I need to stop using Tri-Luma cream if I decide to get Botox?

What to do for under eye laxity? (Photo)

Will getting a Botox brow lift help reduce horizontal forehead lines? (10 unit brow lift)

Would I get better results from buccal fat removal or masseter Botox? I want to achieve a more balanced look. (photos)

Botox Muscular Atrophy Between Brows - What can I do to fix this? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS