
A commonly observed side effect of a botox treatment is drooping of the eyelids. The following article sheds some light on the causes and treatment of this condition.
Botox has been widely acclaimed for its anti-aging results. This treatment is performed to smooth the wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes and mouth, and lift the skin. The end result is a more youthful and fresh-looking skin; however, this treatment involves some risks and side effects. The incidence of side effects is very rare, with only 1 to 4% of people suffering from a condition named droopy eyelid.
Causes
Botox is derived from onabotulinumtoxinA or botulinum toxin. The toxin aims at paralyzing the muscle responsible for furrowing. This is achieved by binding with the nerve receptors and preventing the nerve impulse from reaching the concerned muscle. The muscle remains immobile for three to four months. Generally, the botulinum toxin only affects the targeted muscle. However, in rare circumstances, the botulinum toxin may leave the site of injection and travel about 1 to 2.5 inches farther from the targeted muscle.
In this case, it also affects the levator palpebrae superioris muscle that controls the opening of the upper eyelid. If this muscle gets paralyzed due to this treatment, moving of the upper eyelid becomes difficult. This condition is usually found in patients who undergo frequent botox treatments, or if too much of toxin is injected at once. Incorrect injection practices or poor aftercare may also result in drooping of the eyelid.
Duration
Drooping of the eyelid after botox is usually a temporary phenomenon. The time period for which it lasts varies for every individual. It may go away in a few days or stay for several weeks. Typically, the effect of injection begins to wear off within 3 to 4 months. Therefore, the eyelids can correct themselves before the effect of botox begins to fade away.
Prevention and Treatment
Firstly, one should always get this treatment done from a reputed and expert doctor only. Therefore, a certified dermatologist with good experience in administering botulinum toxin can be your safe option. It is important to maintain an upright position while receiving the injection and also 3 to 4 hours after it is administered. Avoid massaging the area of injection during this time. In case, the eyelids start drooping, they can be treated with some eye drops prescribed by the doctor. Eye drops such as alphagan or iopidine can lift the eyelid up to 1 mm to 3 mm. These eye drops work by stimulating the muscles other than the levator muscles of the eyelid.
Botox is indeed an effective and safe method of fighting wrinkles. The aforementioned side effect can be minimized by proper preventive measures and aftercare.
Disclaimer: This BeautiSecrets article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.