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Will I Get Permanent Side Effects if I Try Botox Just Once?

Botox used only a few times is unlikely to cause permanent problems - outside of complications (it is possible - though extremely unusual - to have a hematoma from a botox injection that may leave some scar tissue or contour deformity). Botox itself usually does not have an effect that lasts beyond six months. There is some discussion that being treated for years with Botox can cause some atrophy (weakening and shrinking) of the muscles it is used to treat but this is usually a subtle change after long term usage.

Clinical Context

Temporary side effects like a heavy or drooping eyelid happen when a small amount of the product affects a nearby muscle rather than damaging any nerve. As the effect wears off over the following weeks, normal movement returns because the nerve-muscle connection regenerates on its own. This process happens the same way whether it's someone's first treatment or a repeat one. True permanent change from a single treatment is very rare and is not related to how Botox itself works.

Answered By

Dr. Steven Williams

President Emeritus of ASPS

Dr. Steven Williams is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, a diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the Past President of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a charitable person who dedicates his life to those in need of his unique expertise.

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