What are the risks and side effects of瘦脸针 (Botox for facial slimming)?

Generally,瘦脸针 (injections for facial slimming) refers to Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection. It works by blocking nerve impulses between nerves and muscles, causing the over-contracted masseter muscles to relax and atrophy, thereby achieving the effect of facial slimming. The usual reference price of Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection ranges from 1,500 to 6,000 yuan per injection, and improvement is typically noticeable within 7 to 10 days. Risks and side effects of Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection include facial expression stiffness, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, facial asymmetry, and skin laxity. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Facial Expression Stiffness

Improper dosage or injection site of Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection may affect the normal function of facial expression muscles, resulting in unnatural and stiff facial expressions. For example, the corners of the mouth may not lift normally when smiling, or it may be difficult to raise the eyebrows.

2. Difficulty Swallowing

If the botulinum toxin spreads to nerves controlling the throat muscles, it may cause relaxation or weakness of the throat muscles, thus affecting swallowing function and causing difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it may even affect eating, leading to insufficient nutrient intake and other problems.

3. Difficulty Breathing

In extremely rare cases, the botulinum toxin may affect the respiratory muscles, weakening their strength and causing difficulty breathing. This is a more serious condition that may endanger life and requires prompt medical attention.

4. Facial Asymmetry

If the dosage of Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection differs on both sides of the face or if there is an error in injection placement, it may cause uneven atrophy of the masseter muscles on both sides, leading to facial asymmetry, which affects the overall harmony and aesthetics of the face.

5. Skin Laxity

Excessive use of Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection causing excessive atrophy of the masseter muscles may lead to loss of muscular support in the face, resulting in sagging and drooping of the skin. This condition may be more noticeable in individuals with naturally poor skin elasticity, accelerating the appearance of facial aging.

After receiving Botulinum Toxin Type A for injection, it is important to avoid applying heat, massaging, or rubbing the injection sites for a short period to prevent the medication from spreading to other areas and increasing the risk of adverse reactions. Additionally, it is important to keep the injection sites clean and dry to avoid infection.