I have antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and would like to get Botox/fillers like Juvederm. I am on a daily aspirin regiment.

Question

I am wondering if there are risks in triggering the immune system?

Marek Kacki, MD · Answer

Although there is no particular problem with botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid fillers in this syndrome there is definitely a possibility to have adverse reaction due to technical aspect of injection procedure. It all depends on severity of the disorder, frequency of thrombotic as well as hemorrhagic events. For example, if your platelet count is below certain value you are running the risk of bleeding and excessive bruising. If you take aspirin that may add to the same risk. Also, if filler is deposited in excessive amount near a small or medium size vein it could impair the proper blood flow which is one of three requirements for blood clotting. Since the syndrome's main feature is thrombosis, an additional factor (impaired blood flow) may dramatically increase the risk. As you know, there are many variants in you illness and the best answers to your questions will come from your doctor who follows you. Good luck!

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question jbun25. I understand your concern. Botox is a purified protein
used to address wrinkles associated with facial expression. When injected into
the skin Botox will relax the muscles and smoothen out the overlying wrinkles. The
most common areas of treatment are in the upper face. These include the
horizontal lines seen on the upper forehead when one raises the brows, the
vertical lines seen between the brows when one frowns (frown lines), and the
crow's feet seen around the eyes when one smiles.It is difficult to make recommendations without knowing a person's full medical history. However, I hope the information
provided here is useful.The safety record of Botox is well established.
The product has been used for over 20 years for a variety of treatments with
minimal side effects. Botox is amongst the safest treatments for treating
facial wrinkles.While Botox is one of the safest treatments
offered, there are some situations where it is not appropriate. These include
anyone who has an allergy to any of the inactive ingredients or who has had an
allergic reaction to any botulinum product including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or
Myobloc. The safety and efficacy of Botox has not been established in women who
are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breast feeding. Therefore, women in
these categories are advised to wait until breast feeding is completed prior to
having a Botox treatment. Botox should not be placed in the skin on the site of
an infection. Those who are taking an
aminoglycoside antibiotic, an anesthetic, D-penicillamine, antimalarials, or
immunosuppressants should not be treated, nor should those who have undergone
chemotherapy within the previous six months. It is important to avoid blood
thinners before and after a treatment. These include both prescription and
non-prescription medications such as warfarin (coumadin), aspirin, ibuprofen,
alcohol, fish oil, vitamin E, and ginko biloba. Those with conditions that affect
muscles and nerves such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou
Gehrig's disease), myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome should not
undergo Botox treatments. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is not a known contraindication to Botox or filler treatments. Aspirin may increase the risk for bruising.With any injection, there are risks such as
pain, bleeding, bruising, redness, swelling, tenderness, and infection. We take
special precautions to minimize these risks such as using a painless technique.
We also treat bruises with a laser as early as the next day. Bruises usually
resolve within two weeks if untreated. After a laser treatment bruises usually
resolve in 1-3 days, but may still take two weeks for full resolution. In
addition to these risks, with Botox there is also a risk that the product spreads
or diffuses to nearby structures. Spread to nearby muscles can lead to side
effects such as the temporary appearance of droopy eyelids or a temporary
asymmetric smile.Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations. Good luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

I would not offer you Botox injections since your dx is one that causes an auto immune response to stimuli, i.e. Botox injections. Discuss with your treating MDs if they might write you a clearance for Botox injections...

Justin Harper, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi jbun25,Your having antiphospholipid antibody syndrome or SLE does not seem to be contraindicated for Botox. However, make sure you are healthy and cleared by your medical doctor before considering any aesthetic procedure. The fact that you are on aspirin therapy can increase your chances for bruising.All the best,Justin Harper, M.D.

I have antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and would like to get Botox/fillers like Juvederm. I am on a daily aspirin regiment.

Answers (4)

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