Botox is the most common noninvasive cosmetic procedure on the market today. Many consider it a simple and miraculous solution for forehead wrinkles, crows feet and the "11" lines that form between the eyebrows. While side effects to Botox injections are rare, they do occur. One of the most common adverse affects is a droopy eyelid.
Function
Botox Cosmetic is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A. The toxin is administered into specific facial muscles in a series of intramuscular injections. After the toxin is administered, it begins to block nerve transmissions in these muscles. Effects begin within a day or so after the injections and increase in intensity for about a week. The ideal result is a controlled paralysis that decreases or eliminates wrinkles in targeted areas. Botox induced paralysis is temporary, generally lasting three to four months.
Features
According the FDA-approved label, complications arise when the effects of the toxin extend beyond the intended area. Temporary drooping of an eyelid is the most frequently reported problem. Approximately 5 percent of patients reported some degree of this adverse event. Eyelid drooping is also known as transient ptosis. It can occur within hours of the injections or weeks afterward. The condition can last anywhere from less than a week to several months.
Treatment
Time is the safest and most effective treatment for the transient ptosis caused by Botox injections. Because the toxin-induced paralysis is temporary, the side effect is self-limiting as well. Individual cases vary, but often the drooping eyelid lasts for a few weeks. In these cases, patients still have more weeks, perhaps months, to see the positive effects of their treatment. However, some cases of eyelid droop have lasted significantly longer though. It's important that people who have this side effect report the condition to their doctors and to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Alternative
While there are no FDA approved medications to treat Botox-induced ptosis, certain eye drops have been used to counteract drooping eyelids. The Dermatology Online Journal notes that Iopidine, Alphagan and Neo Synephrine Hydrochloride are among eye drops that have been used to strengthen eye muscles and elevate the drooping eyelid. Since these medications are intended to treat other conditions, it's important to consult your health care provider about any potential negative outcomes before considering eye drops as a treatment method.
Considerations
Be your own advocate by doing adequate research ahead of time. Find out about the education, experience and competency level of the person who will perform the injections. Board certified plastic surgeons, cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists are specially trained to help improve outcomes.
Follow the doctor's after-care advice. Generally, this include instructions to remain upright for at least four hours after the procedure, to avoid exercise for 24 hours and to avoid massaging or pressing down on the treated area.
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