We are currently in an age where minor cosmetic procedures such as Botox and fillers are seen as routine steps in skincare. However, what happens when a standard Botox injection goes wrong? In January 2025, a New York aesthetician was arrested for allegedly administering fake Botox injections to clients. Several clients of the clinic, JGL Aesthetics, reported adverse effects, including a confirmed case of botulism, as per USA TODAY.
While complications from Botox administered by a licensed professional are rare, it is crucial to ensure your injector is reputable. So, what do experts want you to know about Botox?
Botox is a neuromodulator injection used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by targeting facial muscles. Dr. Nayoung Lee, an assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone, explains that Botox also has FDA-approved medical uses for conditions like migraines and muscular dystonias. Derived from botulinum toxin type A, Botox is produced from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the same bacterium responsible for botulism, a rare and serious illness affecting the nervous system.
Botulism typically results from consuming food contaminated with botulinum toxin or spores. Iatrogenic botulism, a rare form linked to Botox, can occur if the toxin spreads beyond the injection site due to improper dosing or vessel injection, notes Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms include vision issues, speech difficulties, drooping eyelids, and muscle weakness, potentially progressing to paralysis of respiratory muscles, posing a life-threatening risk, according to the CDC.
Early detection is critical for a successful recovery from botulism. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms arise, as botulism antitoxin can counteract the toxin in the bloodstream, preventing further nerve damage. However, existing nerve damage may persist for months without resolution, explains Dr. Raman Madan from Northwell Health.
When administered by a licensed professional using genuine products, Botox carries minimal risk of botulism, emphasizes Madan. The real danger lies in counterfeit Botox or injections from unlicensed practitioners, highlighting the importance of vigilance when undergoing such procedures.
The transformation that Botox can bring to one’s life is truly remarkable. However, when it comes to selecting a reliable Botox injector, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the providers available in your vicinity. It is imperative to only entrust your Botox treatment to a skilled healthcare professional who possesses the necessary qualifications, a sentiment echoed by Lee and Madan.
The regulations surrounding the licensure of Botox injectors can vary from state to state. Typically, only licensed medical professionals are permitted to administer Botox injections. This category includes physicians such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and in some cases, dentists, as well as physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses. In certain states, nonphysicians may be allowed to perform Botox injections under the supervision of a licensed medical practitioner. It is important to note that in several states, including New York, aestheticians are prohibited from administering Botox injections.
Assuming you have identified a licensed provider with a track record of positive reviews, who operates within a medical spa setting, it is essential to exercise caution. While there are reputable medical spas where licensed professionals adhere to stringent safety protocols to ensure the administration of FDA-approved neuromodulators like Botox, there are also establishments that may not maintain the same level of sterility as a medical office. Therefore, prior to opting for Botox treatment at a medical spa, extensive research on the facility is highly recommended. If you are uncertain, Raman advises that the safest choice is to receive Botox from a licensed provider at a physician’s office.
Although Botox and other neuromodulators have become increasingly commonplace, it is important not to underestimate the significance of these cosmetic procedures. Despite its widespread use, Botox remains a potent neurotoxin. Ultimately, selecting a skilled and reputable injector is paramount in achieving optimal results while minimizing the risk of potential complications.
This informative article was originally featured on USA TODAY and provides valuable insights into the importance of finding a safe Botox injector.
