Is it advisable to receive botox injections from a nurse?

Hello, As the panel members suggested, whether or nurse or physician, the most important factor is training vs. title.  The law are mostly consistent in that a registered nurse must be properly supervised by a physician.  Whether the physician is a plastic surgeon or not is not the issue.  However, being properly supervised means that the supervising physician must be trained and knowledgeable in the treatments he/she is providing supervision over.  Nurses that are trained and supervised often produce a very nice outcome and experience for the patient.   Please see the below link for more information on this topic and regulations.

Nurses can be excellent Botox and filler injectors . Its all about training and experience. They do need to be associated with a reputable medical practice and its worthwhile doing your research in that regard.Good Luck!

This is a bit of a touchy subject, as you will find injectors ranging from fellowship trained surgeons, non-core cosmetic physicians, general medicine doctors, dentists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses. In some states, like our neighboring Idaho, even an arsthetician can inject, although most reputable practices don't let that happen. 
Some nurses are truly great injectors, but there will always be limitations to an injectors knowledge base, based on what their underlying training is. 
 My advice would be, choose your injector based on their reputation, before and after pictures, and expertise. Do not choose an injector because they are less expensive or you are going to get a deal. You are always going to get what you pay for. 
To ensure you are receiving the highest level of care, seek out a modernly trained, new-school dermatologic surgeon, oculoplastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who is board certified and fellowship trained in one of these "core four" cosmetic specialties. Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery help to identify a highly trained surgeon.

Cameron Chesnut
#realself500 Physician

Some states allow nurses to administer Botox. Outcomes are based on skills, expertise and technique. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Who can inject botox depends on many factors including state laws. In many places nurses do inject under a physician's guidance and get excellent results. Some focus most of their time on doing injections and get very proficient. As with doctors, some are better than others. If you chose to go to a nurse injector, ask them about their training, experience and supervision. Many can also show you before and afters of their work. Finally, first meeting in consultation can give you a good idea if they are the right provider for you.Hope this helps.

Thank you for your question. I would always recommend seeking treatment from a specialist.  It always to get a in person evaluation from a board-certified dermatologist. 

Many states will allow nurses to perform Botox injections but is it advisable? All things being equal, the skill and experience of the injector is the most important factor to take under consideration. Someone who knows what they're doing, has the proper training, who listens to your concerns and knows how to deliver the results you're after. However, all things are not equal. A dermatologist has far more education and training than a nurse ever will. Knowledge of facial anatomy is extremely important when doing these treatments. There are many dermatologists who aren't as skilled as their nurses because they simply don't perform the treatment as much. Ideally, you want someone who has a combination of all those criteria, namely an expert in facial aesthetics, not simply someone with a license and a needle.

Thank you for your question.  There are many injector's who are RN's who have been trained in  botox and filler procedures .  I would ask them how long they have been injecting and if they have advanced training.  Some offices the Dr. does the injectables as well, while other offices , the nurse may only do injectables and are very good at what they do.   

Thank you for your question.  In most states, nurses can and commonly do administer Botox injections under the supervision of a physician.  Some nurses have a lot of experience and are excellent injectors, however skill levels can vary from nurse to nurse.  I personally think it's important to ensure that anyone performing cosmetic treatments also has the qualifications and experience to manage any potential complications that may arise.  As a result, in my own practice, cosmetic injections are only performed by board-certified dermatologists.                

Thank you for your questions.  As with any procedure in cosmetic surgery you would like your provider to have as much experience as possible.  Knowledge of facial anatomy is also of utmost importance in achieving a good outcome.  Just because someone is licensed to do something doesn't necessarily mean you should let them do it to you.  Knowledge of what to do in the event of a complication is also a factor to consider.  I recommend seeking a board certified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic procedure.