Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are medical treatments that temporarily relax muscles or block certain nerve signals. Best known for reducing facial wrinkles, Botox is also used to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, including migraine headaches and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Injections contain a purified form of botulinum toxin that meets strict medical standards to deliver optimal results with no adverse effects. At Penn Medicine, Botox treatments are performed by experienced providers in safe, clinical settings.

Botox is a versatile treatment approved by the FDA for both cosmetic and medical purposes. It’s commonly used to address:

• Wrinkles and fine lines: Botox helps smooth frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead creases caused by repeated facial movements and aging skin. It temporarily relaxes the facial muscles that cause these lines, giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
• Migraines: Botox is approved to prevent chronic migraines. When injected around the head and neck, it can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
• TMJ and muscle tension: For people with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or chronic jaw clenching, Botox can relax the muscles and reduce pain, tension, and teeth grinding.
• Neurological conditions: Botox is used to treat muscle spasticity, dystonia, facial spasms, and other movement disorders by blocking overactive nerve signals.
• Severe underarm sweating: Botox can reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) by blocking the nerves that trigger sweat glands.
• Bladder control issues: In people with overactive bladder, Botox can help reduce urinary urgency and incontinence by relaxing the bladder muscles.

Botox treatment may be suitable for adults and some children with specific medical conditions. It’s not recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological or muscle conditions. Your doctor should review your medical history to confirm that Botox is right for you.

Botox injections are quick and typically done in a doctor’s office without anesthesia. Before your treatment, your health care provider will assess your needs and mark the injection sites. A very fine needle is then used to inject Botox into specific muscles. Most people describe the feeling as a slight pinch or bug bite. If you’re concerned about discomfort or if the area being treated is especially sensitive, your provider may apply a topical numbing cream or ice to help minimize sensation.

After treatment, you should be able to return to most normal activities right away. Your provider may ask you to avoid lying down or rubbing the treated areas for a few hours after your Botox treatment.

Your provider will give you clear aftercare instructions to help you get the best results. Mild side effects, such as swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site, are common and typically go away within a few days. Other common side effects of Botox treatment may include headache and mild weakness in nearby muscles.

Serious side effects from Botox are rare, but seek medical attention at once if you experience:

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Severe muscle weakness
• Vision problems
• Allergic reactions like rashes or hives

Most people are able to go back to work or daily routines right after treatment. You may notice the first effects of Botox within a few days, with full results showing in about one to two weeks. The effects usually last three to four months.

The safe and effective use of Botox requires precision, medical training, and good clinical judgment. If injected incorrectly, Botox can cause unwanted side effects like facial asymmetry or muscle weakness.

At Penn Medicine, Botox injections are performed by experienced medical professionals who understand both facial anatomy and therapeutic dosing. Whether you’re receiving Botox for wrinkles, migraines, or other medical concerns, our specialists have the expertise to deliver targeted treatment with care and accuracy.