Botox didn't work on 1/2 of my forehead. Is this normal?

Question

I have been having botox regularly done for the past 5 years. Usually my forehead is very easy to treat but 1/2 of my forehead is not 'taking' the botox I had done 3 weeks ago and the other 1/2 is. I look ridiculous! Half of my forehead is smooth and the other half is wrinkling up like a sharpe puppy! I went back almost a week ago to have touch up on the side that's still wrinkled. It still looks the same. What on earth can be the reason for this?

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

After three weeks, the results you see from your Botox injections are probably not going to change much. Therefore, I recommend you return to your Botox injector and be evaluated.  I can't explain exactly why this has occurred, but your injector will likely be willing to inject a few additional units, at no cost, into the side of your forehead where you see little or no effect.

Andrew P. Trussler, MD · Answer

Botox injections to the forehead are reliable and usually require about 15 units total. The forehead treatment is designed to smooth lines and shape the brow. The injections must be done above the muscle and the creases. A predictable amount in a pattern that works for your brow should deliver results. Botox doesn't not "take" and is likely related to depth and location of injection, or amount. Its important to return to your injector and get comfortable with a predictable pattern of distribution. If it still doesn't correct, a trial of Dysport may deliver a more powerful result.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Lisa,Not normal, try again, or see another injecting physician.  You may try one of the other neuromodulators such as Dysport or Xeomin.  Good luck and be well.Dr. P

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

There are various variables as to why this response may happen. For instance, muscle structure and the Botox that was injected. A week after your second injection you should start to notice some difference - keep in mind that Botox can take up to 2 weeks to see the full effects. At 2 weeks if you still have not noticed any difference speak with your injector and have them use a new bottle of Botox and technique. Hope this helps.

Jessica Lattman, MD · Answer

This sounds strange because the botox should work equally on both sides if the same amount was injected.  I would ask your doctor if different batches were used on either side.  Possibly one of the batches was ineffective.

Botox didn't work on 1/2 of my forehead. Is this normal?

Answers (9)

Answer: There are various variables as to why this response may happen.

Answer: There are various variables as to why this response may happen.

Answer: Botox

Answer: Botox

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Botox didn't work on 1/2 of my forehead. Is this normal?

Answers (9)

Answer: There are various variables as to why this response may happen.

Answer: There are various variables as to why this response may happen.

Answer: Botox

Answer: 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.