Botox caused cheek ptosis- realistic timeline 6 units per eye/ 2 times in 7 weeks.

Question

Botox every 3-4 months for 8 years. On 12/1/23 had 38 units between crows 11 and forehead. Went back 7 weeks later and had 30 more units. Now I have cheek drop on both sides. cheek bone area is so flat and chipmunk when I smile (cheek is by nasolabial fold and not lifting). Derm confirmed it affected zygomaticus. Since I did the "double dose" within 7 weeks is my timeline for it to fade still 3-4 months? It's been 6.5 weeks and is not any better. Please advise! I'm panicked!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issue from your Botox treatment.  The effects are temporary and will gradually fade over three to four months from your most recent treatment.  Be sure to always use an expert injector.

Leila Kump, MD · Answer

I am sorry that you are going through this. When your injector hit rizorius muscle, that affected the smile. We perform Aerolase (warm YAG laser) in the office to weaken the Botox effect. I successfully treated a couple of patients who had levator palpebrae muscles affected by Botox being injected too low by their providers. It may take a long time for Botox to wear off on its own. The fastest way to try to get rid of Botox is to warm up the muscles. Alternatively you can try to exercise the muscles that are affected.

Lexie Wang, MD · Answer

Yes you will need to wait the full 3-4mo after your LAST injection to the crow's feet area (this is where it can migrate down into the zygomaticus). If you did not get a touchup in that area, then it will be 3-4mo from the first injection. If you did, then it will be 3-4mo from that 2nd injection 7wks later.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Do you have difficulty moving your face?  Is smiling hard?
IF so, it is in the zygomaticus.  It will resolve.

Botox caused cheek ptosis- realistic timeline 6 units per eye/ 2 times in 7 weeks.

Answers (4)

Answer: Flatness or paralysis?

Answer: Flatness or paralysis?

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Botox caused cheek ptosis- realistic timeline 6 units per eye/ 2 times in 7 weeks.

Answers (4)

Answer: Flatness or paralysis?

Answer: Flatness or paralysis?

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Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.