What happens to Botox after it wears off in your system?

Question

I realize the wrinkles come back and my question is what happens to the botox chemical as it circulates out in your body ?Does it go thru the liver or get stored somewhere else? Is it simply water soluable and gets flushed out by normal body functions. I am wondering about long term effects does it cause arthritis ? effect your immune system? Do we even know? Thank you Groovinda

Julia Ann Sullivan Miller, MD · Answer

Botox is a protein that blocks the connection between the nerve and the muscle and prevents the muscles from contracting and forming wrinkles on the face.  Over a few month period the protein is broken down into simpler and smaller parts that do not have the ability to act like the original protein.  These smaller parts are then generally recycled by the body for other uses.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I know of no long term adverse effects of Botox when used for cosmetic reasons.  Long term consequences of routinely blocking muscle contraction are unknown, and to my knowledge none have been reported to date. Depending upon your physiology, Botox is metabolized and excreted over 3 to 6 months.There are certain risks that can be mitigated by selecting a board certified plastic surgeon who has specialized residency or fellowship training in aesthetic medicine. You want to schedule with a board certified plastic surgeon who can provide the best outcome with few or no complications.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There is no evidence that Botox negatively impacts the immune system or causes arthritis. Botox results resolve in 3-4 months, then the treated area will go back to normal. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to discuss your concerns and to determine the best treatment plan for you.The body metabolizes Botox through the liver and kidney excretion.   Botox lasts about 3-4 months. Botox works by binding to nerve endings, preventing them from contracting. Other alternatives to Botox are Xeomin or Dysport. Best of Luck!

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

One of the best things about Botox (other than it works) is that there are no long term side effects associated with the procedure. And trust me, with the amount of Botox performed every year, we'd know if there were problems. While the results last for 3-4 months, the protein in Botox is actually quickly metabolized by the body. Hope this helps.

What happens to Botox after it wears off in your system?

Answers (7)

Answer: The body metabolizes Botox through the liver and kidney excretion.

Answer: The body metabolizes Botox through the liver and kidney excretion.

Answer: No long term side effects with Botox

Answer: No long term side effects with Botox

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Everything you need to know about Botox

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What happens to Botox after it wears off in your system?

Answers (7)

Answer: The body metabolizes Botox through the liver and kidney excretion.

Answer: The body metabolizes Botox through the liver and kidney excretion.

Answer: No long term side effects with Botox

Answer: No long term side effects with Botox

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.