Is calf Botox effective if I have very muscular & bulky calves? (Photos)

Question

I have very muscular and bulky calves due to genetics and it completely throws off my frame. Will calf Botox be effective in reducing the size if I get 100 units in each leg? Will it impact the functionality as I like going to the gym to train legs (squats, deadlifts, etc)? And if I do would the results last for a shorter period of time?

Brian Bassiri-Tehrani, MD · Answer

Neurotoxin (or neuromodulator like botox) injections target the muscle to weaken or paralyze the muscle. It is FDA approved for injections on the face to weaken or paralyze the muscles of the face that make wrinkles. Injections of toxins elsewhere on the body can be used "off-label" - meaning not FDA approved for injections in those areas, calf muscles being one of those areas.
If you are constantly working out, then the muscle will swell and grow in size (hypertrophy). Toxin injections can help the size and hypertrophy of the muscle like it does with other muscles (masseter muscle of jaw), but it may cause weakness and functional loss. The amount of botox needed to reach this threshold depends on each individual patient and the amount of bulk there is. Starting with a lower dose toxin is usually a better idea than starting at a high dose, since botox is not reversible. More toxin can always be added later, but if too much is injected initially, there is nothing that can be done to reverse it, and you will have the effect linger for 2-3 months (typical duration of effect of most toxins). Too much toxin injections in the calves can can cause weakness in walking, running and even standing for a long period of time. This in turn will lead to compensatory changes in your gait, and compensatory changes in other muscles chipping in to do the work the calf muscles are supposed to do, further leading to muscle imbalances and potential injuries when training. It is possible that even in small doses, these compensatory changes may happen, and it is unpredictable as to what extent it will happen.
If you are working out everyday, it may affect your training and your overall fitness goals. The risk of losing your function should be weighed against the benefit of the contour and appearance of the muscle. Toxin injections in the calf is a double edged sword and the risks and benefits should be carefully considered.

Danielle Shanley, MD · Answer

I would not recommend doing Botox in the calf muscles. Botox freezes the muscle so that it does not move. This would not be a good procedure for looking to reduce the muscle in the calves.

Juan Guillermo Breton, MD · Answer

So for larger musle groups (face and/or body), you should consider the following:1. The higher the dose, the more effective2. The Higher the dose, theres more risk of developing antibodies3. If your having higher dosages, try to schedule the patient to a follow-up visit in about 4 week4. Try to go with other brands of toxin without protein complexes, such as Xeomin5. Exercise does shorten the lasting result of ANY toxin, and if it involves weight, it will affect it more.6. There's lack of information regading if swichting bewtween brands could make a longer lasting result

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox injections are typically used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. However, it has also been used off-label to reduce the size of muscles, such as the calves. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscle contractions, which can lead to muscle atrophy (shrinkage) over time.

The effectiveness of Botox injections for reducing the size of calf muscles may vary from person to person, and it's important to note that the results may not be permanent. The number of units required for treatment will depend on the individual's muscle size and other factors, and this should be determined by a qualified medical professional.

It's also important to note that Botox injections may impact the functionality of the calf muscles, particularly if you engage in activities that require the use of these muscles, such as squats and deadlifts. It's essential to discuss the potential impact on your athletic performance with your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.

Additionally, the results of Botox injections for muscle reduction may last for a shorter period of time compared to its use for reducing wrinkles, as the muscles will gradually regain their size and strength over time.

It's important to speak with a qualified and experienced medical professional to determine if Botox injections are appropriate for your individual needs and goals, and to discuss any potential risks or side effects associated with the treatment.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Is calf Botox effective if I have very muscular & bulky calves? (Photos)

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Is calf Botox effective if I have very muscular & bulky calves? (Photos)

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Answer: Botox

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