Facial muscle contraction in forehead? Is this Botox related or a "Charlie Horse" contraction in the forehead? (photo)

Question

Botox for first time a month ago.(forehead and 11 lines ,26 units) 2 wk follow up 3 more units in top of forehead.16 days since I had the 3 units. I was just taking off my makeup n rubbing forehead, felt strong muscle contraction in forehead looked in mirror my forehead was involuntary "scrunched" and left brow raised as if I were "surprised" lasted one min. Rubbed my forehead n it settled. I circled area in which it happened, wasn't happening in the pic. Scared, crying

Jon E. Mendelsohn, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question - that must have been a strange and scary feeling and look! We do sometimes see temporary muscle twitches or pulling after botox, especially in new users, as the non-relaxed muscles attempt to compensate for those that have been relaxed. I would be surprised if it persisted, and if it does return for another touch up. Typically this sort of reaction is short-lived, and becomes less apparent as your muscles adjust to receiving botox. If you like the result of the botox, don't let this deter you from future treatments.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Involuntary muscle contractions sometimes occur after Botox due to muscles in the area that were not injected but this is temporary, will go away and probably will not happen again

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing your question and photo. Since it was temporary and only happened once, it's probably unrelated to the Botox and nothing to worry about. If you notice it again, I would followup with your injector.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Sounds like you had a temporary muscle spasm as you say, and this was maybe due to your rubbing your forehead brow as you stated as well. Good thing it settled. If it returns or lasts a long time, be sure to follow up with your injector for a review. Best wishes,Sincerely,
  
Benjamin J Cousins MD 
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miami/Miami Beach/Broward

Gregg Kennedy, MD · Answer

I regret that you experienced this unusual event after your first experience with Botox. Over two weeks after the touchup, all of the paralysis that would occur had done so. In every case, muscle cells are still able to contract in response to stimuli other than nerve impulses, like vigorous rubbing or tapping. This spasm is not dangerous and should not recur.

Facial muscle contraction in forehead? Is this Botox related or a "Charlie Horse" contraction in the forehead? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Muslce Contraction

Answer: Muslce Contraction

Answer: Unusual spasm

Answer: Unusual spasm

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Facial muscle contraction in forehead? Is this Botox related or a "Charlie Horse" contraction in the forehead? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Muslce Contraction

Answer: Muslce Contraction

Answer: Unusual spasm

Answer: Unusual spasm

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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.