Is an Opthalmologist Qualified to Inject Botox and Fillers?

Ophthalmologists along with Otolaryngologists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons are the core specialists who typically recieve training in the use of Botox. This does not mean that each of these specialists perform this service routinely and therefore you should ask about your physician' s unique experience with Botox injections.

Just as the experience of board-certified dermatologist and plastic surgery varies from one to another when it comes to Botox and fillers injection, the same applies to ophthalmologists. You should have a better odd with someone qualified by seeking an oculoplastic surgeon vs. an ophthalmologist.

My suggestion would be to see a highly trained and board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in Botox injections or a similarly qualified dermatologist.  Both specialties have specific training in Botox injections.  Good luck.

Botox has been used in ophthalmology for years for blepharospasm and strabismus; well before its cosmetic indications.  Drs. Carruthers, a Vancouver couple ophthalmologist and dermatologist, are credited for the discovery of its cosmetic indications.  Ophthalmologists, especially ocular plastic surgeons,  have an excellent knowledge of facial anatomy.  They are well qualified for multiple facial procedures.

We get this type of question often because we have nurses and physician assistants injecting Botox.  The bottom line is that most intelligent and dedicated practitioners that have put much time and effort into studying facial musculature and anatomy and the effects of Botox on the facial musculature are going to be qualified to inject Botox.  The question is not so much about their speciality, but about the dedication to the art and science of injection procedures.

If the practitioner takes the time to get properly trained, they will have satisfied patients and word of mouth referrals will follow.  While not everyone has a friend using Botox, most of us do.  So try asking around to find out who your friends or relatives trust.  Good luck.

The answer is - it depends. I would be hesitant about any doctor without formal training in Botox and filler injections. If the eye doctor you choose has formal training and experience in performing such injections, you should be just fine.