Facial spasms and paralysis can be both physically and emotionally taxing, but you don't have to face them alone. Our compassionate team is here to provide support and guidance every step of the way, offering innovative treatment solutions to help you overcome these challenges and reclaim your life.
What Are Facial Spasms?
Facial spasms present as twitches of the eyelids and facial muscles. They may occur on one or both sides of the face. They can be quite localized, appearing only in the eyelids, or they can occur more diffusely throughout the entire face and even in the neck. Facial spasms arise due to a variety of conditions. In minor forms, such as myokymia, the eyelid may twitch temporarily due to irritants, stress, lack of sleep, or caffeine. Spasms may also occur after a significant physical trauma. Occasionally, spasms may be a sign of an issue with nerve pathways. The most common conditions include myokymia, benign essential blepharospasm, and hemifacial spasm. In extreme cases, your surgeon can work together with either a neurologist or neuro-ophthalmologist to help determine the correct diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Facial Spasms
The most effective treatment for spasms is botulinum toxin injections. Botulinum toxin can weaken the action of muscles by interrupting nerve signals. For cosmetics, this helps to reduce wrinkles caused by repetitive muscle contractions (smiling, frowning, squinting, etc.). For spasms, the botulinum works to weaken the muscles, causing eyelid or facial spasms. Oral medications have varying degrees of effectiveness. These options could be attempted, though they often have side effects that may reduce the tolerability of the medication. Surgeries are also an option for treating spasms, though they have variable success rates, and you may still require botulinum toxin after surgery.Â
What is the Benefit of BOTOX (botulinum toxin) for Facial Spasms?
- Non-invasive and non-surgical
- Painless with no downtime
- Quick session time of around 15 minutes
- Helps to ease bothersome facial spasms
- Restores peace of mind and quality of life
- Improves self-confidence
What Can I Expect From My Treatment?
Botulinum toxin injections are administered in the office setting. Dr. Nina Boal performs all injections herself, drawing on her expertise and artistry as a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon.
The treatment takes less than five minutes. Patients can undergo BOTOX injections approximately every 3 months, though treatment intervals vary by patient. Occasionally, bruising or redness may occur after your botulinum injection, though these side effects fade quickly. Results typically become apparent within three days, with full changes surfacing at about two weeks after treatment. Injection dosages and patterns are typically adjusted at future treatments to meet your needs.
