Can Acupuncture Help Simulate Nerve in Facial Muscle and Improve Muscle That Were Atrophied by Botox?

Question

I have received touch up dose of 10 units (each side) 3 weeks ago and I did not like the result. The touch up dose kicked in way sooner than initial treatment (20 units each side) I've 5 months ago. Does it mean it will go away sooner than average 4 months duration? I've been chewing gum and exercising my face hoping to stop muscle being further atrophied...

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Results last for about 3-4 months, so you can expect the about the same longevity for your results. You can try acupuncture. Just make sure to wait until you've recovered from Botox before getting the acupuncture. 2 weeks is a good timeframe, but you may want to wait 3 just in case.

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

Botox will wear off and is never permanent. You may want to follow up with your treating provider for an opinion first before you consider Acupuncture.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Moomoocat.  Thanks for your question.  If you are speaking about the masseter (jaw) muscle, I'm not sure there is anything that acupuncture can do to help.  But because the muscle is only partially relaxed with Botox (Dysport) injections, it's possible that muscle activity such as chewing gum may lessen the effects of the Botox by keeping the muscles working hard.  The gum can't hurt, but we're not sure that acupuncture would.  Good luck.

Can Acupuncture Help Simulate Nerve in Facial Muscle and Improve Muscle That Were Atrophied by Botox?

Answers (3)

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.

Can Acupuncture Help Simulate Nerve in Facial Muscle and Improve Muscle That Were Atrophied by Botox?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

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.