What Are The Side Effects (if any) Associated With Botox?

side effects of botox in arlington

Botox has become widely popular among people of all ages. In fact, its anti-aging effects have made it one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. However, some people are concerned that it could have negative side effects.

Let’s look at what Botox in Arlington, VA, is, and which side effects are likely to occur.

Botox

Botulinum toxin type A, or Botox, is a toxin produced from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. While it is true that this is the same type of toxin that causes botulism, its effects vary based on the amount and type of exposure.

Botox is only injected in small, targeted doses. This blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, preventing the muscle from contracting. This can ease some muscular conditions as well as improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Safety of Botox in Arlington

Small doses, like the ones used in the application of Botox, are considered safe. The USFDA has only reported 36 cases of adverse effects associated with cosmetic use between 1989 and 2003. Of those cases, 13 may have been due to underlying conditions.

It is important to note that cosmetic applications may carry less risk than therapeutic Botox injections since the doses are typically much smaller. Some studies have also shown that with therapeutic use, adverse effects were more likely to be reported. This could be due to underlying conditions or the higher doses needed for therapeutic use.

Overall, Botox is still considered safe and carries minimal risk. To lower your chances of adverse effects even more, always go to a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for Botox injections.

Botox Uses

Typically, Botox in Arlington, VA, is known for its use in reducing wrinkles and fine lines. It can be used to treat crow’s feet, frown lines and forehead creases.

Furthermore, Botox is used to treat muscular conditions such as lazy eye, eye twitching, chronic migraines, neck spasms, overactive bladder, excessive sweating, and even cerebral palsy. Botox injections are temporary. For this reason, most people get repeated injections over time to maintain the effects.

Side Effects of Botox

Botox injections are considered safe but minor side effects may occur. These include pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, headache, fever, chills. Other side effects may be tied to the are of injection. For example, injections in the eye area may cause uneven eyebrows, dry eyes, excessive tearing, or drooping eyelids. Whereas injections around the mouth may cause a crooked smile or drooling.

“The great majority of our patients do not have side effects from Botox.  If they occur, it is frequently nothing more than a small temporary bruise.” – Dr. Nicole Hayre

Side effects typically fade within a few days. However, rare but severe side effects like drooling, drooping eyelids, and asymmetry are all caused by the unintentional effects of the toxin on muscles surrounding the target area. These side effects may take several weeks to improve.

Although it is rare, you may experience botulism-like symptoms. If you experience the following, you should seek immediate medical attention:

Schedule a Consult for Botox in Arlington

As with any other procedure, side effects are possible. Speak to your doctor about the risks and make an informed decision. If you are thinking of trying Botox in Arlington, VA, contact us online or call (703) 827-8600 today!