What are the potential complications associated with botulinum toxin treatment of the glabellar complex muscles?
Potential complications of botulinum toxin treatment of the glabellar complex muscles include blepharoptosis (droopy eyelid) and eyebrow ptosis (droopy eyebrow).
Blepharoptosis, or droopy eyelid, can occur if the botulinum toxin migrates to the levator palpebrae superioris muscle, leading to a temporary lowering of the eyelid. This complication is infrequent, typically unilateral, and usually resolves within six weeks. Eyebrow ptosis can result from the relaxation of the lateral frontalis muscle if the injection is placed too laterally. Both complications are related to the migration of the toxin outside the intended treatment area.
Key points
- Blepharoptosis is a potential complication, characterized by droopy eyelid.
- Blepharoptosis occurs if toxin migrates to the levator palpebrae superioris muscle.
- Eyebrow ptosis can occur if injections affect the lateral frontalis muscle.
- Both complications are usually temporary and resolve spontaneously.
- Proper injection technique is crucial to avoid these complications.
Related questions
A practical guide to botulinum toxin injections
Small, Rebecca; Hoang, Dalano;
LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS, a WOLTERS KLUWER business