Regardless of the intended cosmetic or medical use, Botox is still a neurotoxin that is injected into the human body. In some areas of the world, botulism toxin is considered a highly effective chemical weapon. There have been some adverse reactions to Botox injections, usually when the product is injected by someone who is not trained in the administration of the drug or the drug is injected in higher than recommended dosages. There are some rarely occurring side effects that have been reported with the use of Botox in patients. These side effects include permanent paralysis of the facial muscles, loss of facial expression and muscles outside the injection site being affected by the injection. Even with the possible side effects, Botox has proved to be remarkably safe and only a small number of patients reported concern over possible side effects.

One of the reasons for the safety of a Botox injection is the rate the human body reproduces muscles cells at the effective point of injection. The human body has such a high cell turnover rate any effects of Botox, when administered correctly, is temporary. In fact, the manufacturer recommends repeating the procedure every few months to maintain the effectiveness of the product. A good way for a cosmetic surgery patient considering Botox to ensure their safety is to verify their surgeon is properly trained in the administration of Botox. The effects on muscle tissue surrounding the injection site have been linked to the dilution of the product prior to use. The more dilute the toxins, the higher the dosage that must be used to produce the effect. Patients should question their surgeon as to the exact dosage and how the product is injected into the intended site; any surgeon who has had sufficient botox training will be able to answer their patient’s questions with ease and accuracy.