Are there any side effects of getting slimming injections for the face?

Generally, getting a "facial slimming injection" refers to the injection of Botulinum Toxin Type A. It works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles, causing the masseter muscles to atrophy from disuse, thereby achieving a slimming effect on the face. The usual reference price for Botulinum Toxin Type A injections ranges from 2000 to 12000 yuan per shot, and effects are typically noticeable 7 to 14 days after injection. Botulinum Toxin Type A injections usually have certain side effects, including facial stiffness, local swelling and bruising, difficulty swallowing, skin laxity, allergic reactions, and others. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Facial Stiffness

The main component of Botulinum Toxin Type A injection is botulinum toxin, which works by blocking nerve impulses between nerves and muscles, relaxing over-contracted masseter muscles, thus achieving a facial slimming effect. If the physician administers an improper dosage or excessive amount, muscles that should not relax may also be affected, leading to excessive muscle relaxation.

2. Local Swelling and Bruising

Durring the injection, the needle may come into contact with blood vessels in the subcutaneous tissue. Once the blood vessel is punctured, blood may seep into surrounding tissues, forming bruising. At the same time, the body will trigger an inflammatory response, causing localized swelling.

3. Difficulty Swallowing

When botulinum toxin is injected into the deep layers of the masseter muscle, it may spread and affect the throat muscles. These muscles are primarily responsible for swallowing. The botulinum toxin blocks nerve control over the throat muscles, preventing the muscles from contracting and relaxing normally, thereby making it difficult for food to pass through the esophagus during swallowing, affecting normal eating.

4. Skin Laxity

After prolonged exposure to botulinum toxin, the masseter muscle gradually atrophies and shrinks. The facial skin originally supported by the masseter muscle loses some of its support. If the skin itself lacks elasticity and cannot adapt to this change in a timely manner, it may lead to sagging skin, especially on both sides of the cheeks.

5. Allergic Reaction

In some individuals, the immune system may recognize botulinum toxin as a foreign substance and initiate an immune response. This results in the production of antibodies that bind to the botulinum toxin, releasing inflammatory mediators such as histamine. Symptoms typically include skin itching, rashes, redness, and in severe cases, edema of the respiratory tract may occur, causing breathing difficulties, or even anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening.

It is recommended to choose a reputable medical institution and experienced physician for the procedure, which can help reduce the risks involved.