Botox and Mental Health: A Surgeon’s Perspective on the Risks You Shouldn’t Ignore

Botox and Mental Health: A Surgeon’s Perspective on the Risks You Shouldn’t Ignore

12 days ago | 5 Views

As we grow older, fine lines and wrinkles inevitably develop, yet Botox continues to be one of the most preferred cosmetic procedures to diminish these signs of aging, resulting in a smoother, more youthful look. However, although it eliminates the laugh lines to enhance your smile's clarity, can Botox diminish the radiance of your actual smile?

Dr. Anmol Chugh, Associate Director of the Plastics and Aesthetics Centre at CK Birla Hospital and Director at Imperio Clinics in Gurgaon, provided expert opinions on Botox and its possible effects on mental health and what individuals should consider before opting for it.

Dr. Chugh talked about the increasing discussions regarding Botox's mental side effects, stating, “Online forums and private social media groups have appeared globally where people assert that Botox caused them to feel unwell, with some even experiencing mood shifts or symptoms of depression. Although these accounts are limited, they have caused confusion and anxiety. ”

Let’s address this concern starting from the fundamentals, as Dr. Anmol Chugh initially described what Botox is and how it operates, before we investigate how, if at all, this might affect mood.

What is Botox and how it works

Plastic surgeon marking the areas before the treatment.

Dr Anmol Chugh clarified, "Botox is a refined protein sourced from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In minute amounts, it is utilized to relax overactive muscles. In cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery, it’s employed to even out lines formed by repeated muscle movements. It’s additionally FDA-approved for treating medical issues such as chronic migraines, excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), and muscle spasticity. In India, Botox and other neurotoxins are provided under stringent medical supervision. Nonetheless, with the increase of unlicensed injectors and illicit imports of counterfeit products, safety must always be a priority. "

Furthermore, Dr Chugh also guided us through the prevalent misbelief that is frequently linked with Botox that may scare individuals. Yet he confirmed it’s significantly rarer. He explained, "There’s a misunderstanding that Botox leads to botulism, a severe illness that can result in muscle paralysis. In truth, iatrogenic botulism—that is, botulism induced by medical procedures—is extremely uncommon. It generally occurs only when exceedingly high doses are injected, far exceeding what is utilized in aesthetic treatments. Worldwide, most documented cases are associated with therapeutic rather than cosmetic applications. In India, there have been no significant published reports of botulism connected to cosmetic Botox when administered correctly by trained professionals. The crucial factors are dosage, technique, and product quality. "

Does Botox wear down your real smile?

With a clearer smile, some even report having better moods.

With many forums discussing how Botox may dampen your real smile while it smooths your facial canvas, the plastic surgeon shared his take on it.

He said,"Studies have shown that Botox can actually improve mood. By softening frown lines, patients often feel happier, and some researchers suggest there may be a feedback loop between facial expressions and emotional states. In fact, some studies have explored the use of Botox as a treatment for depression. That said, a small number of individuals worldwide have reported feeling emotionally ‘off’ after injections. The US FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System has recorded a minuscule percentage, less than 1%, of Botox users reporting depressive symptoms. Most of these cases involved patients being treated for non-cosmetic indications or with higher therapeutic doses. From an Indian clinical standpoint, I have not personally encountered a case where Botox caused depression. However, mental health is deeply personal. If you are predisposed to anxiety or depression, it’s always a good idea to inform your doctor before undergoing any aesthetic treatment."

What you should know before going for Botox?

Now that the air has been cleared around Botox, let's straightaway get to the practical stuff. If you are considering Botox, here are some tips Dr Chugh shared that you can keep in mind:

Choose your injector wisely: Always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist. India is seeing a boom in medi-spas and salons offering injectables. Not all are regulated.

Know the source: Only FDA or CDSCO-approved products should be used. Ask your provider about the brand and origin.

Understand the risks: Temporary bruising, asymmetry, or mild headaches are the most common side effects. Serious complications are exceptionally rare when the treatment is done right.

Communicate your concerns: If you experience any unexpected physical or emotional changes after treatment, consult your doctor. Open communication is vital for safe aesthetic care.

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