Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 987-3132

What are the side effects of Botox?

Botox huntersville nc injections are commonly used because of their ability to reduce or eliminate the appearance of wrinkles on the face. They can also be used to treat other conditions including neck spasms, excessive sweating, an overactive bladder and lazy eye. Botox injections can also be used to aid in the prevention of chronic migraines.

Botox injections use a toxin called onobotulinumtoxinA. The toxin temporarily prevents the movement of muscles. It is produced by the microbe which also causes botulism, which is a form of food poisoning.

Botox injections block specific chemical signals from the nerves. It primarily blocks the signals which cause muscles to contract. The most popular use of Botox injections is to temporarily relax the facial muscles. These muscles cause wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes and in other locations on the face. Botox injections can also be used to treat other conditions which include:

  • Cervical dystonia: This painful condition causes your neck muscles to contract involuntarily and result in your head twisting or turning into uncomfortable positions.
  • Lazy eye: The most common cause of a lazy eye is the imbalance in the muscles which are responsible for the eye’s positioning.
  • Muscle contractures: Some neurological conditions, including cerebral palsy, can cause the limbs to pull in toward the center of the body. In some scenarios, the contracted muscles can be relaxed using Botox injections.
  • Hyperhidrosis: This condition causes excessive sweating, even when the temperature is not warm.
  • Chronic migraines: Patients who experience migraines for more than 15 days in a month, can benefit from Botox injections to help with reducing the frequency of headaches.
  • Bladder dysfunction: Botox injections can help reduce urinary incontinence caused by an overactive bladder.
  • Eye twitching: Botox injections can also aid in relieving contracture or twitching muscles around the eye.

Risks with Botox Injections

Botox injections are quite safe when they performed by a trained and experienced doctor. The potential side effects and complications can include:

  • Pain, bruising or swelling at the injection site
  • Droopy eyelids or cockeyed eyebrows
  • Headache and/or flu-like symptoms
  • Dry eyes or excessive tearing
  • Crooked smile or excessive drooling

While it is highly unlikely, it is possible for the toxin at the injection side to spread throughout your body. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the below side effects following a Botox treatment:

  • Breathing issues
  • Difficulty speaking or swallowing
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Muscle weakness
  • Vision problems

Most doctors suggest avoiding Botox if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Botox should not be used by patients who are allergic to the cow's milk protein.

Doctor Selection

Botox should only be used under the care of a doctor. It is critical that the injections are precisely made in order to avoid negative side effects or complications. Botox can be dangerous when it is not administered properly. A certified and properly trained doctor can discuss realistic expectations and help to determine if you are a good candidate for Botox.

Preparation

If you have had any form of Botox injection within the past few months, be sure to communicate this to your doctor. You should also tell your doctor if you take any muscle relaxants, sleeping aids or allergy medications. You may need to stop taking blood thinners a few days prior to your injections in order to reduce the risk of bleeding or bruising.

More on BOTOX : What is BOTOX used for?

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Patient Testimonial

"Words cannot express enough, how wonderful, caring and professional Dr. Haigney and his staff are! After being rushed to the Huntersville hospital with an orbital fracture, broken nose and other facial damage, Dr. Haigney rushed me into surgery (on his day off I must add) and corrected all my problems. I only wish all doctors cared as much about their patients and their recovery as Dr. Haigney and his staff did. Thank you so much for everything! Your attention and compassion has helped me make my recovery as comfortable as possible. 5 star service!"