Botox is an FDA-approved neuromodulator that efficiently reduces aging signs caused by muscle movements such as dynamic wrinkles and lines. Patients love its effect on forehead lines, crow’s feet, frown lines, and the nose. However, inexperienced, unlicensed Botox providers may overdo it, giving you an unnatural look that is hard to fix.
This article talks about the effects of too much Botox, explaining how long you can expect them to last, and if you can reverse them successfully.
Can You Get Too Much Botox?
It is possible to get too much Botox and end up with an unsatisfactory appearance. Injecting too much Botox results in a lopsided, asymmetrical look, unnaturally augmented features, or a “frozen” look.
These issues most commonly occur due to the inexperience and lack of training of the person administering the injection. Common errors that may lead to unsatisfactory results:
- Injecting too much Botox.
- Not leaving enough time between two Botox treatments.
- Muscles on one side of the face reacting differently than the muscles on the other side.
It is important to note that patients should wait for 2 weeks after the treatment before they decide they are unsatisfied with the results. Muscles react differently and it might just take more time for the neurotoxin to settle and produce the symmetrical, natural look that everyone desires.
What Happens if You Get too Much Botox?
Here are some of the most common side effects of too much Botox.
1. A Surprised Look
Too much Botox in the forehead can create a surprised look, with eyebrows arching too high. In other instances, over injecting the middle section of the forehead can create the so-called ‘’Spock brow’’ with the eyebrow tails ending unnaturally high.
Note: Thinking about getting a Botox brow lift? Read our article to find out if you are a good candidate.
2. A Lopsided Look
Uneven administration of Botox can give you a lopsided look with disproportionate features, such as a crooked smile or a so-called “joker eyebrow”.
3. A Droopy Look
Droopy eyelids (ptosis) appear as heavy, hooded eyelids that give you a tired, sleepy look. This side effect typically occurs after a forehead Botox treatment or Botox for frown lines, when the toxin migrates into the muscles that control the upper eyelid.
Note: Learn how can you fix droopy eyelids after Botox.
4. Frozen Face
This manifests as a “paralyzed” expression that hinders natural facial movements. It happens because of frequent touch-up sessions or when Botox is injected into muscles that are more sensitive to its effects.
5. Puffy cheeks
Too much Botox in the cheek area creates the effect known as ‘’pillow face’’. When this happens, the eyes or the jawline can appear much smaller in comparison to the puffy cheeks. This asymmetry is difficult to fix with corrective follow-up treatments. Therefore, most experts recommend waiting for the product to wear off on its own.
6. Over-filled lips
A badly done Botox lip flip can create unnaturally plump lips or one lip bigger than the other. Attempting to touch it up with more Botox may start a vicious cycle – fixing the initial mistake might eventually cause over-stretched lips with saggy skin once the neurotoxin has worn off completely.
Note: Find out more about common Botox areas and most popular treatments.
How Long Will the Effects of Too Much Botox Last?
The full effects of a Botox treatment gradually subside in 3 to 4 months. The duration depends on the number of injections you have received, and the amount of Botox injected, as well as your body’s unique response to the neurotoxin.
You will likely see some improvement as the body starts breaking down the substance. Meanwhile, refrain from additional corrective treatments unless otherwise advised by an experienced board-certified Botox provider.
On no account should you massage the problematic areas as this might spread the toxin to nearby muscles and aggravate the situation.
Can Too Much Botox Be Reversed?
There are no quick-fix solutions when it comes to a bad case of Botox. However, a skilled injector will know if a touch-up treatment might alleviate the undesired effects of too much Botox or if the current condition is better left untreated.
Note: Read our 12 tips for Botox aftercare to maximize best results with proper post-treatment recovery.
When Should You See a Doctor?
As opposed to other harmless Botox side effects, Botox overdose can trigger side effects that require immediate medical attention. Seek urgent medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Trouble swallowing
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Bacterial infection
- Blurred vision
- Strong allergic reaction
Note: Some patients might develop Botox resistance (immunity to botulinum toxin) due to higher dosages or frequently repeated treatments. Even though it is a rare condition, it can last for years.
Conclusion
Botox injections remain popular and effective in achieving a supple, youthful look. However, overtreatment can cause damage that is difficult to correct. Injecting too much Botox can create an unnatural look with asymmetrical features that might be impossible to reverse immediately.
To prevent undesirable results of your Botox treatment, ensure your provider is medically trained, experienced, and follows all safety protocols.
Contact our well-trained Botox experts at Vibrant Skin Bar for consultation and advice if you have more questions or concerns.
