When Botox Goes Wrong: Common Side Effects and How Experts Fix It

Khushi | Nov 07, 2025, 13:38 IST
Wrong Botox
Wrong Botox
( Image credit : Freepik )
While Botox is known for delivering smooth, youthful results, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. This article explores what happens when Botox goes wrong, including common side effects like drooping eyelids, facial asymmetry, frozen expressions, and headaches. It also explains why these issues occur, how long they last, and how experienced experts can safely correct them
Highlights
  • Drooping eyelids and eyebrows why this happens and the cure.
  • Facial asymmetry which happens when the botox is injected unevenly affecting muscle movements of face.
  • Injecting too much botox results in frozen face.
  • Headaches and flu after taking a shot.
  • Difficulty in swallowing require imeediate medical attention as this is very serious.

There are many cases where botox has gone wrong, leaving people with various side effects some very serous, some mild. Botox is meant to enhance the features, but only if done correctly. The sad part is that even a small mistake in injection placement can completely change the overall appearance. Below are some side effects and fixes to correct them.


Drooping Eyelids And Eyebrows


Drooping Eyelids
Drooping Eyelids
( Image credit : Freepik )


Botox works when muscles are temporarily relaxing muscles to smooth out wrinkles. If injected too close to eyelids or eyebrow the muscles relaxes causing drooping.

For this experts advices to use eye drops like apraclonidine or brimonidine which temporarily stimulate those eyelid muscle.

Gently stimulating using electronic tooth brush on the area helps the condition and the botox wears off.

Facial Asymmetry Effects Muscle Movement


Facial Asymmetry
Facial Asymmetry
( Image credit : Freepik )


This happens because when the injection is injected on one side of the face more than the other which leads to uneven muscle movement or expressions.

Everyone generally have natural slight asymmetry and botox if gone wrong can high light those differences.

Many people often notice their one side of the face more droopy, stiff or less expressive while the other looks normal.

To fix this issue doctors strategically places injections of small amount that will balance the muscles and restore the symmetry. Dermal fillers are a great mask for asymmetry as they add volume to deficient areas.


Frozen Face/Over Treatment Gives Unnatural Look


Giving dose too high and too many injections can lead to expressionless and unnatural look.

When botox is placed in wrong group of muscles it can affect the movements of the the face meaning if botox on forehead is not place appropriately it can affect or stop the brows from lifting naturally, making the expressions flat and emotionless.

But this is temporary, once the botox wears off in 3-4 months, normal facial movements returns. So, it is important to choose skilled injector who focuses on more natural and balanced results.


Headaches/Flu like symptoms


Headaches
Headaches
( Image credit : Freepik )


This is a very common side effects for many people which may occur weeks after treatment. They happens due to various reasons like body can react to mild inflammatory reaction, similar to any vaccine or shot.

Also because when botox is injected too deeply or close to nerves, it can irritate them slightly causing soreness or headache right after treatment.

Taking pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen with these reast and proper hydration is also needed to manage these symptoms. If the headaches and flu are persistent or severe consult the doctor.

Difficulty In Swallowing And Breathing


This is serious and not at all common, it happens because when toxins spreads to muscles they control or stop these functions. This require serious medical attention as this can be life threatening.

The most important point here is selecting qualified, experienced medical professional who deeply understands facial anatomy and uses proper injecting techniques.

Discover expert advice and the latest updates in Skin Care, Hair Care, Wellness, Dermatology, and more at Stay Young guide to lasting beauty and holistic health!


Frequently Asked Questions


  1. Can there be permanent damage from Botox?
    On the other hand, the long-lasting cosmetic use of botulinum toxin can trigger permanent changes in facial expression, and an expressionless, mask-like face. Lack of facial animation or permanent changes in facial expression may be undesirable in some cases.
  2. How to reverse Botox side effects?
    Technically no, there is no reversal for Botox. Once it kicks in you have to wait for it to wear off or augment the results in some way.
  3. Why are Gen Z saying no to Botox?
    People are taking charge of their skincare journey with long-term regeneration and vitality in mind.” Perhaps it's not that Gen Z don't want Botox, it's that they actually don't need it. While millennials were ignoring their mothers' advice and choosing tanning oil over SPF, Gen Z stockpile sunscreen.

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