Risks & Contraindications: Is Botox Safe?

Introduction

Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is widely used in aesthetic and medical applications to relax overactive muscles, smooth wrinkles, and manage conditions like excessive sweating. While generally considered safe when administered by trained professionals, Botox does carry potential risks and contraindications. At Bayswater Dental Clinic, patient safety is our first priority, and we thoroughly screen and monitor all treatments to minimise complications.

Common Risks & Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and temporary, but awareness helps ensure prompt care if needed:

Redness, swelling, or bruising near injection sites
Tenderness or mild pain at or around injection areas
Headaches or flu-like symptoms in some individuals
Temporary muscle weakness around treated zones (e.g. drooping eyelid if brow area injections spread)
Asymmetry if diffusion is uneven or overcorrection occurs
Numbness or tingling in adjacent areas
Rare compensatory sweating (in hyperhidrosis treatments) in untreated zones
Localised infection (uncommon with sterile practice)
Allergic reactions (very rare)

These side effects typically resolve within days to weeks. Long-term complications are uncommon when Botox is used properly.

Major Contraindications

Botox is not safe or recommended in certain situations. You should not receive Botox if:

You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You have a neuromuscular disorder (e.g. myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome)
You have active infection, inflammation, or open wounds at the injection site
You have known allergy to botulinum toxin or any component ingredients
You are taking certain medications that may interact (e.g. some aminoglycoside antibiotics, anticholinergics)
You have severe coagulation disorders or are on anticoagulant therapy (unless cleared by physician)
You have a history of botulinum toxin sensitivity or antibody resistance

During your consultation, we review your full medical history, medications, and potentially interacting conditions to confirm whether Botox is appropriate for you.

What Raises the Risk?

Certain factors increase the likelihood of adverse events:

Higher doses or multiple injected zones
Poor injection technique or lack of anatomical awareness
Thin or weakened skin or muscle mass making diffusion more likely
Previous facial surgeries or anatomical alterations
Inadequate post-treatment precautions (rubbing, massage, heat exposure)
Underlying health conditions that impair healing or nerve function

How We Mitigate Risk at Bayswater Dental Clinic

At our clinic, we adopt rigorous safety protocols:

Comprehensive screening — medical history, medications, and contraindications
Precise dosage planning — use of minimal effective units in targeted zones
Sterile, controlled technique — precise needle placement to minimise spread
Use of approved products — only licensed botulinum toxin formulations
Clear aftercare instructions — guidance to protect treated areas
Close post-treatment follow-up — early detection and correction of any issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Botox affect breathing or swallowing?

Only in extremely rare cases when diffusion affects muscles controlling those functions. This risk is minimal with correct technique and safe vector placement.
Is Botox safe long term?

When used periodically under professional care, it is generally well tolerated. Long-term safety has been supported in many clinical studies when guidelines are followed.
Do I need a medical clearance before Botox?

Yes. We review all medications, health conditions, and risks during consultation. In some cases, clearance from your general physician may be required.
Can I reverse Botox if something goes wrong?

No direct reversal exists. However, the effects wear off over time (typically 3–6 months). In rare cases, adjustments or supportive treatments may mitigate adverse changes.