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Published in: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 1/2022

01-02-2022 | Ptosis | Review

Avoiding Complications on the Upper Face Treatment With Botulinum Toxin: A Practical Guide

Authors: André Borba, Suzana Matayoshi, Matheus Rodrigues

Published in: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery | Issue 1/2022

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Abstract

Background

 Currently, botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections are the most commonly performed non-invasive procedure for rejuvenation on the upper face. The therapeutic use of botulinum toxin has generally been safe and well tolerated. Adverse effects are considered mild, transient, and self-limited. However, as with all other injectable procedures, this one is also susceptible to adverse events and complications. When the safety zones are respected, the chance of any of these complications is practically null.
Thus, this review aims to describe the main complications of treatment with BoNT on the upper face and to present a practical guide based on current evidence on how to avoid them.

Methods

 The literature research considered published journal articles (clinical trials or scientific reviews). Studies were identified by searching electronic databases (MEDLINE and PubMed) and reference lists of respective articles.

Results

 The main complications secondary to BoNT injections on the upper face are: ptosis of eyelid or eyebrow, eyebrow asymmetry, diplopia, Lakeophthalmos, Palpebral ectropion, and prominence of the palpebral bags. To avoid such complications, it is necessary to have knowledge of the anatomy of this region and adequate and individualized planning based on the existing patterns of the frontalis muscle, glabella, and crow's feet. This review presents the specificities of each of these regions and practical suggestions to obtain satisfactory results, avoiding complications.

Conclusion

 Particularly on the upper face treatment with BoNT offers predictable results, has few adverse effects, and is associated with high patient satisfaction. However, it is suggested that the commented parameters and safety areas be incorporated into daily practice so that the possibilities of complications are minimized as much as possible.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.​springer.​com/​00266.
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Metadata
Title
Avoiding Complications on the Upper Face Treatment With Botulinum Toxin: A Practical Guide
Authors
André Borba
Suzana Matayoshi
Matheus Rodrigues
Publication date
01-02-2022
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery / Issue 1/2022
Print ISSN: 0364-216X
Electronic ISSN: 1432-5241
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-021-02483-1

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