Botox risks & complications
An honest look at what can go wrong with botox, how often, and how to protect yourself.
Every procedure carries risk. Most complications from botox are uncommon, minor, and resolve with conservative management — but informed consent means understanding the full picture before you decide.
Documented risks for botox
Bruising at injection site
common minor; resolves in days
Brow ptosis or eyelid heaviness
1–3%; technique-dependent
Asymmetric smile
rare; usually means injector hit a wrong muscle
Headache
common after first treatment; resolves in 24 hours
How to reduce your personal risk
- Choose a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon.
- Stop nicotine in any form for at least 4 weeks pre/post-op.
- Disclose every medication and supplement to your surgical team.
- Follow pre-op fasting and post-op activity restrictions exactly.
- Keep follow-up appointments — early detection means easy fixes.
This page is general education, not medical advice. Risk estimates vary by patient factors, surgeon experience, and technique — discuss your specifics with a qualified surgeon.