Avoiding BOTOX Risks & Complications
Karli Plunkett, DMSc, PA-C, LME
July 29, 2023
4 min read
Botox, derived from the botulinum toxin, has undeniably taken the world by storm. It's seen as a quick fix for wrinkles and a magic wand for age-defying beauty. However, like every medical procedure, it carries risks. Improper use and administration can lead to a host of undesirable effects, often resulting in more harm than good. This blog post aims to shed light on these risks, to help potential recipients make an informed decision about Botox treatments.
The Risks of Inexperience
A significant risk factor in botox treatments is the inexperience of the injector. The popularity of botox has led to an unfortunate trend of unqualified or inexperienced individuals offering this service. These injectors may not have a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy, nor the skills to accurately place the injections. Botox works by blocking nerve signals in the muscles where it is injected, which causes temporary muscle paralysis. If incorrectly administered, it can lead to issues such as drooping eyelids, crooked smiles, or a frozen face.
As tempting as they may sound, "botox parties" carry immense risk. The concept is simple: gather a group of friends, and an injector comes over to administer botox treatments in a casual, party-like atmosphere. This trend, however, seriously undermines the fact that botox is a medical procedure that requires sterile conditions and professional expertise. At such parties, the environment may not be as controlled or as sanitary as it should be, leading to increased risk of infection or other complications. Additionally, the presence of alcohol, a common feature at parties, can increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site. If you are going to attend a Botox party, make sure you check on the experience and licensure of the injector. Botox parties are often a way for inexperienced or unlicensed people to inject, increasing the risks to patients.
Botox and 'Frozen Face'
Another significant risk of poor Botox treatment is ending up with what's commonly referred to as the 'frozen face.' When Botox is overused or injected into incorrect areas, it can cause an unnatural level of muscle paralysis. This excessive relaxation hinders your facial muscles' ability to create expressions, resulting in an emotionless, or 'frozen,' appearance.
The 'frozen face' can be distressing, impacting self-esteem and social interactions, despite being temporary. As the Botox effect wears off over three to six months, your facial muscles should regain their normal function. To avoid this scenario, choose a well-qualified, experienced professional who knows how much Botox to use and where to place the injections for a natural look.
Botox Results Lacking Symmetry
If not administered evenly, Botox can lead to asymmetrical facial expressions. One of the key skills of a good injector is understanding how much Botox to use and where to place the injections to achieve a balanced and natural look. Over or under treating an area can lead to one part of the face looking different from another. This could result in some lines or wrinkles appearing deeper or more prominent.
Even worse, you can't just dissolve Botox like you can with HA fillers. This means you may have to wait out the results for 3-4 months.
The Aesthetic Implications for You
One of the primary goals of Botox treatment is aesthetic enhancement. However, improper administration can lead to aesthetic problems. A common example is a 'dropped brow'. This can occur when Botox is injected into the wrong area, or too much is used, causing the eyebrows to sag or droop. Not only can this be aesthetically displeasing, it can also create a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the brow area.
Another possible side effect of bad Botox treatment is the 'frozen face' look. When used in appropriate doses, Botox should allow for some natural movement in the face. However, when administered poorly, it can lead to an inability to fully express facial emotions, giving the face a frozen or unnatural appearance.
In conclusion, it is crucial to remember that Botox is a medical procedure and should be treated as such. If you are considering Botox, make sure to do your research and choose a certified professional with a proven track record. Avoid the lure of Botox parties and bargain treatments, and instead focus on the qualifications and expertise of the injector. An understanding of your potential risks can help ensure that your pursuit of beauty doesn't compromise your well-being.
Our Orlando Botox patients come to us for gentle hands, tailored treatments, and natural-looking Botox results. We don't rush our procedures, and take the time to begin each appointment with a comprehensive consultative to make sure we fully understand your desires.