Every woman desires a delicate, oval-shaped face to enhance facial contours. Facial slimming injections can reduce the masseter muscle size, but some individuals experience facial stiffness after treatment.
What causes facial stiffness after facial slimming injections?
1. Injector's technique
If the practitioner lacks precise understanding of facial anatomy, injecting botulinum toxin directly into the upper layer of the masseter muscle may damage ocular nerves, leading to stiffness accompanied by drooling, eye twitching, or facial asymmetry.
2. Excessive dosage
When injecting botulinum toxin into both masseter muscles, the total dosage per session should not exceed 100 units, and the interval between injections must be at least one hour. Exceeding these standards can cause facial expression stiffness.
How to prevent facial stiffness after Botox injections?
1. Avoid facial massage
Refrain from any facial massage for at least four hours post-injection. Avoid head shaking or vigorous physical activity during this period, as these actions may diminish the treatment's effectiveness.After treatment, facial soreness is a normal reaction. Avoid applying heat or ice packs to alleviate discomfort, as this accelerates blood circulation and diminishes the treatment's effectiveness.
2. Avoid makeup and washing your face
Refrain from washing your face or applying makeup for six hours after treatment. This prevents bacteria from directly contacting the injection sites and reduces the risk of inflammation. Additionally, avoid eating hard-shelled or chewy foods and minimize movements that engage the masseter muscles, as these can diminish the treatment's effectiveness.Hard-shelled foods include pistachios, pine nuts, melon seeds, almonds, peanuts, and walnuts. Additionally, avoid spicy snacks, chewing gum, and gluten-based foods.
3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol directly impair the efficacy and absorption of biological agents. After facial slimming injections, the injection site becomes highly sensitive. Alcohol consumption may trigger allergic reactions at the wound site and, in severe cases, lead to infection. Additionally, alcohol stimulates blood circulation, exacerbating swelling.
Important Reminder
Facial slimming injections involve more than a single shot. Doctors must precisely control injection depth and dosage. Therefore, choose a reputable hospital and an experienced practitioner. This ensures the appropriate dosage based on your muscle size, preventing facial stiffness and guaranteeing safety.Avoid strenuous exercise for three hours post-procedure. Maintain a light diet and steer clear of irritating foods, as these can hinder wound healing.