Is Botox safe for a lower eyelid twitch?

Question

I have a very annoying twitch in my right lower eyelid. It comes and goes throughout the years. I had a small jab of botox about 3 years ago and it worked very well. However it left me with a pronounced bag under my eye because of the weakening of the under eye muscle which resolved after a few weeks and returned to normal. Ideally I wouldn't like to have anything injected under my eye but I just want to get some opinions on this. I'm worried because the constant twitch might lead to a permanent wrinkle.

Gary Linkov, MD · Answer

Botox is a type of neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes muscles that receive the medicine. On the face, the typical areas to inject are the forehead, glabella (the “11’s”) and crow’s feet. There are more expert injections such as in the lip, lower face, masseter muscle, neck, etc. to achieve different objectives. It is not only about the number of units injected, but where they are injected such as depth and which aspect of the muscle that ultimately dictates the final outcome. 
Botox and the other neurotoxins will start to take effect in 2-3 days, with peak effect at 2 weeks and will start to fade in 2-3 months. Risks of injection may include bruising, swelling, weakening of adjacent muscles. 
Because botox paralyzes the muscles, it can be used to treat a muscle twitch.
Consult with an experienced neurotoxin injector for a complete range of options that are appropriate for your situation.

Gary Linkov, MD
Facial Plastic Surgeon in Manhattan

Monica Boen, MD · Answer

Botox has been used for decades as a medical treatment for conditions like uncontrollable eyelid twitching. However, the treatment does require precision in needle placement to produce an optimal outcome. In your case, it is possible the needle wasn’t placed exactly to reduce twitching without affecting other muscles in the area. Always work with a board-certified dermatologist that has the knowledge of facial anatomy and the experience and training in Botox injections to ensure an optimal outcome.

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

Botox is an excellent option for addressing uncontrollable eye twitching. This FDA-approved neuromodulator works by relaxing the muscles that lead to wrinkles or - in your case - uncontrollable muscle spasms. Before Botox was approved as a cosmetic treatment, it was routinely used for medical purposes like painful neck conditions and eye twitching. 
The key to a successful procedure is precision in both needle placement and dosing amount. With an expert Botox injector performing your treatment, you should be able to eliminate the twitch without negatively impacting your appearance. Botox typically lasts about three to four months per treatment. Look for a board-certified dermatologist with extensive knowledge of facial anatomy to ensure an optimal outcome from your treatment.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, Botox can be used to help reduce muscle twitching.  Be sure to see an expert injector for this procedure.  Discuss your goals for treatment including what you want and what you don't want.

Is Botox safe for a lower eyelid twitch?

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Is Botox safe for a lower eyelid twitch?

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Answer: Is Botox safe for a lower eyelid twitch

Answer: Is Botox safe for a lower eyelid twitch

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