Q. Unfortunately the internet can be a scary place. I have read some terrible stories on here about patients administered with Botox for cosmetic procedures such forehead and crows feet and ended up with long term dizziness, malaise, flu symptoms, visual disturbances, anxiety, neurological issues, etc. I am interested in Botox, however these stories make me think twice. I do not want to have any of these symptoms. Have you had patients with these side effects, how often?
A. Despite the millions of Botox doses for cosmetic use provided by thousands of injectors, the public remains over cautious in its use and side-effects. Botulinum toxin (and maybe this is what causes the concern, the name toxin) is no different than any other drug used or ingested by humans. It has been tested and approved by the FDA for safety and efficacy when used properly. The history of the use of botulinum A further supports its use.
Despite the wrong person injecting the wrong patient in the wrong site, complications can happen. Your best most qualified injector will be that who has had formal training and Board Certification in a core group of subspecialties including Plastic Surgery, ENT Facial Surgery, Ophthalmology and Dermatology. Not everyone in this core necessarily has the talent or the skills to understand how to:
- Evaluate the patient for the Botox effects requested
- Understand the physiology of the medication and how it may work differently on different patients
- Use each individuals unique anatomy and injection skill to achieve desired results
- Recognize side-effects and complications and how to treat or overcome the undesired consequence
