Patients who regularly undergo filler injections will know that one of the most concerning complications with filler injections is occlusion. This is when filler is accidentally placed inside a vein or blood vessel. Thankfully, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved to prevent any major issues. Most patients bounce back without aesthetic or medical issues. However, does this concern also apply to Botox?
Accidentally Injecting Botox Into A Vein
Unlike fillers, Botox is a much thinner liquid that is not meant to plump the treatment area. This means that it does not pose the same risks that occlusion does such as loss of tissue or blood clots. However, it does mean that 1). That Botox dose will likely not be effective (or less effective) in the treatment area 2). Patients will need to monitor their side effects 3). Patients and providers may not know that Botox was injected into a vein.
Overall, with the average doses of Botox, it is extremely unlikely that it will have any adverse effects on the body. In very rare cases, it could inadvertently affect an area you did not intend to treat, but this is generally mild, temporary, and not common.
Possible Side Effects If Botox Is Injected Into A Vein
Sometimes after Botox is accidentally injected into a vein, patients may experience more bruising or swelling than they normally would with regular Botox treatment. More bleeding may also occur. The rarest side effect is the development of spider veins due to accidental Botox injection. This usually only happens if the Botox is repeatedly injected carelessly, or if the dosage is exceptionally large.
Most side effects associated with this rare occurrence should resolve on their own. You will likely want to stay in contact with your provider to ensure your body responds normally and nothing major occurs. Your provider will check in with you to follow up and adequately record any symptoms.
Botox Re-Treatment
The timeline in which a patient can be retreated after Botox is accidentally injected into a vein will depend on the circumstances. If a patient does not experience major side effects or issues, then they may be able to come back in for their Botox injections two to three weeks later. However, others may need to wait longer or come in sooner. For example, if the face is noticeably asymmetrical due to one side being correctly treated, your provider may treat you sooner. However, this will vary widely between patients and providers.
Conclusion
Botox in Bellevue, WA is one of the safest injectable medications available. With decades of research and study—and successful cosmetic and medical uses—there is usually little to worry about when undergoing a Botox procedure. Just make sure you are seeing a reliable, experienced, and credentialed provider. Dr. Allegra and his team aim to help patients look and feel their best after eating the banana.
To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 425-576-1700. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, or Price Simulator.
