Blepharospasm and Hemifacial spasm

EyeSurgeon For Facial Dystonia Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin can be used to treat:
  • Benign essential blepharospasm
  • Hemifacial spasm
  • Facial synkinesis (involuntary muscular movement/spasm) following facial nerve palsy


Botulinum Toxin Injections for Muscle Spasms

Botulinum toxin, sold under the brand names  Azzalure® (Galderma), Bocouture® (Merz), Botox® (Allergan), Dysport® (Ipsen), Xeomin® (Merz), is a synthetic chemical that, when injected, can be used to temporarily paralyse muscles for treatment of a wide range of conditions. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum, that causes botulism. BOTOX®, which is made from a type of bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum type A, is used to block nerve signals for treatment of a wide range of conditions. Although most commonly known for its cosmetic applications, Botulinum toxin injections are an effective treatment for many medical conditions, including muscle spasm disorders such as blepharospasm, which results in forcible closure of the eyelids. Botulinum toxin injections are administered directly into the affected muscle; the injection effectively blocks nerve signals sent to the muscle, keeping it from contracting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are treated with Botulinum toxin injections?

The following muscle-spasm-related conditions can be treated with Botulinum toxin injections:

  • Blepharospasm (excessive blinking), Hemifacial spasm and Facial synkinesis
  • Cervical dystonia (neuromuscular disorder affecting the head and neck)
  • Bladder dysfunction (overactive bladder)
  • Strabismus (squints)
  • Achalasia (failure of lower esophageal sphincter to relax)
  • Muscle stiffness from upper limb spasticity

Botulinum toxin injections typically begin working a few days after treatment. Depending on the problem being treated, their effect may last for 3 or more months. Results are maintained by regular injections every 3- 4 months. Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should not receive Botulinum toxin injections.

What do Botulinum toxin injections involve?

Using a very fine needle, Botulinum toxin is injected directly into facial muscles that are affected by spasms. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. The injection effectively blocks nerve signals sent to the muscle to prevent it from contracting and to reduce pain.

Patients may need 5 to 20 injections during a single treatment session. The results of treatment are often most effective during the first 2 to 6 weeks after the injection and, according to the manufacturer, will last for up to 4 months. Results can be maintained through routine follow-up injections.

When will I see results from Botulinum toxin injections? How long does it last?

Results from Botulinum toxin injections are apparent within 3 days, and are maximized by 10 days. Results often last between 3 and 4 months.

Who is qualified to give Botulinum toxin injections?

Botulinum toxin injections should only be given by a medical professional who has had the necessary training and experience.

What are the possible side effects of Botulinum toxin?

Side effects of Botulinum toxin are usually mild and temporary. Possible injection-site side effects include pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, redness, bleeding and bruising. Depending on where they are given, cosmetic side effects of Botulinum toxin injections rarely include temporary swelling or drooping of the upper eyelid or double vision.

Other side effects include Headache and Allergic reactions (including itching and rash). Allergic reactions can result in dizziness, feeling faint, wheezing and asthma symptoms. Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.



Contact us to learn more about Blepharospasm and Hemifacial spasm

Latest Blog Post

Dealing with Bell’s Palsy

We have a facial nerve that stretches down each side of the face. These nerves allow us to laugh, smile, frown, and open and close our eyelids. Sometimes facial paralysis occurs when a person is Keep Reading ►
View Archive ►


Request an Appointment

Quick Contact

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Locations in London

My NHS practice is based at the world-renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. I consult private patients at Moorfields Private Eye Hospital, Weymouth Street Hospital, Phoenix Hospital Group Outpatient Centre and The Harley Street Clinic.

Map Loading