There is a likelihood that Botox or Botulinum toxin injections will change your eyelids if you have your mid and upper forehead treated. This is because toxin reduces muscle movement in this area (the Frontalis muscle), by blocking nerve pathways from causing muscle contractions, relaxing the muscles. The normal result is that the eyelids should lift a little (see the image on the right), which most clients like as it opens up the eyes, giving a more youthful appearance. However, if your practitioner is a little too over-enthusiastic with their dosing, it can cause a ptosis or eyelid droop situation.

Every client is unique, and most medical practitioners know how to avoid this situation by injecting the correct doses with carefully chosen placement over the forehead. If you do experience an eyelid ptosis, it's unsightly but there are options for improving the situation, so please do revisit your practitioner as soon as possible.

Firstly, botox is temporary and by around week 9 you should start to naturally see an improvement in your eyelids, as the botox wears off and they start to slowly lift out. For acute ptosis, a course of eyedrops called Lopidine (Apraclonidine 0.5 %) may be prescribed, which causes the Maller's muscle above the eye to contract and lift up the affected eyelid(s). These drops cannot be used if you are wearing contact lenses, however. Another option is to gently apply a dry electric toothbrush to the eyelids, which can also alleviate the heaviness.

With new clients I take a very conservative approach to avoid any ptosis risk at all, and always give them the option to return for a follow up appointment 2 to 3 weeks later. As I always say, "With botox it's better to add in, as we can't take it away!"

For more tips and advice, you can contact me via my social media platforms: @EmmaColemanSkin