Botox is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, offering a quick and effective way to minimise the signs of premature ageing. However, whilst this popular anti-wrinkle treatment is generally safe when administered by qualified professionals, there are certain situations where Botox may not be the best option.
Whether you’re considering Botox for the first time or are a regular patient, understanding when it might not be safe can help you make informed decisions about your treatment and avoid potential complications. At London City Skin Clinic, we want every patient to feel in safe hands, and we encourage everyone who walks through our door to be honest about their health so we can provide the best treatment possible.
Is Botox safe?
Yes, Botox injections are perfectly safe if administered by a qualified and skilled medical practitioner.
Botox is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, and the toxin temporarily stops a chemical messenger stimulating the nerve,, causing the muscles around them to relax. It is injected in small doses, and has been researched thoroughly over 4 decades to determine the safety of its use, and in the right hands, there is nothing to worry about.
Medical professionals will be keen to make sure you are in a safe position to receive the treatment by asking questions about your physical health, and will therefore not proceed with the treatment if they feel you are not suitable.
There are, however, circumstances that would make Botox unsafe to administer.
When is it not safe to get Botox?
Botox is not safe to receive if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
No prospective studies have been conducted on the safety of Botox injections on pregnant or breastfeeding women. Hence, as a medical treatment that is not vital to the life or health of the mother or baby, medical professionals are not willing to risk complications.
As Botox is a toxin, and the risks are unknown, you should not seek Botox treatments during pregnancy.
As a new mother, the most appropriate time to seek Botox treatments would be after you have stopped breastfeeding to avoid any risk to your child’s health.
Have a neuromuscular or nerve condition
Botulinum toxin reduces muscle activity at nerve endings, so it is not safe to administer for cosmetic purposes on anyone who lives with a neuromuscular disorder or nerve condition. It may be recommended by a medical professional to aid with pain, but you should not seek Botox treatments unless you have been specifically referred by your Specialist.
Botox injections can put people with existing muscle weakness at further risk, and patients with these conditions have reported reactions to the toxin following minor treatments.
Be wary of any practitioner who is willing to proceed with treatment if you have disclosed a disorder that causes muscle weakness.
Dr. Robby Bajaj has over 15 years experience providing highly skilled treatments that begin with a consultation to establish your needs. As a fully registered member of the General Medical Council, he puts the health, safety and wellbeing of every patient at the heart of each procedure.
Are you allergic to botulinum toxin?
You are unlikely to know if you have an allergy to Botox before you book your appointment, which is why qualified medical professionals will always give advice on your aftercare, and should check-in with you, as well as leaving the clinic details for any emergency contact.
If you book an appointment for Botox and this is not the case, cease any further contact and approach another non-surgical aesthetics specialist for your treatment.
Allergic reactions to Botox can cause:
- Hives
- Swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Itching
- Nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Excessive bruising
- Droopy eyelids
Have recently had surgery
If you have recently had surgery in the area of treatment, then you should wait until the area is fully healed before seeking Botox treatments. It is possible that the toxin could slow down the healing process, or cause further complications to surgical wounds.
It is likewise not recommended that you interfere with a recovering wound. Medical professionals will advise that you wait until after you are certain the wound has healed before returning for your consultation.
Are taking prescription drugs
You are at higher risk of experiencing side effects from your Botox treatment if you are taking certain prescription drugs like antibiotics, anticoagulants, or autoimmune medication.
Also if you feel unwell with a high fever, it is not advisable to have treatment.
It is vital that you disclose any symptoms or medication that you are taking to your Aesthetics Doctor in your initial consultation so they may advise on whether it is safe for you to go ahead with treatment.
At London City Skin Clinic, your safety and wellbeing is a top priority which is why every anti-wrinkle treatment begins with a consultation to discuss your needs and medical condition. We will also make sure that you are fully informed and comfortable with your chosen treatment before it goes ahead.
For more information on what is included in your treatment, take a look at our Skin Treatment Price List or Contact our Skin Clinic today.
020 3488 8469 | info@londoncityskinclinic.com
