Botulinum toxin treatment is the most popular non-surgical aesthetic procedure worldwide, with millions of treatments being performed each year.1 Although it is generally considered a safe procedure, complications can and do occur. A 2022 literature review by Zargaran et al. looking at a total of 17,352 injection sessions reported a complication rate of 16% following botulinum toxin injections for aesthetic use (with an incidence of bruising at 5%, headaches at 3% and unintended muscle weakness at 2%).2
It is important that treatments are performed by medical practitioners in an appropriate clinical setting having received in depth training in all aspects of botulinum toxin and facial anatomy to help mitigate risks. It is also essential that a licensed botulinum toxin is used for treatments that is sourced from a reputable supplier and it is appropriately transported and stored.
The toxin used and dilution volume may also be important when considering risk of complications. Finally, patient selection is paramount, taking into consideration absolute and relative…
