Dr. Saber’s Blog

Could Botox Relieve Anxiety? About Botox and Mental Health

IMPORTANT NOTE: Let me take a moment to remind you that I am not a psychiatrist, and I do not use Botox to treat anxiety (because I, of course, do not treat mental health). 

But I do use Botox a lot in my practice, and it is exceedingly important that I keep abreast of all the potential side effects of its use. That way I can fully inform my patients about the pros and cons of every procedure I perform. I personally find this news about Botox to be fascinating as well as promising, so I wanted to share it with you.

Botox Has Many Uses

People usually think of Botulinum toxin (Botox) as a treatment for wrinkles, frown lines, and other signs of aging. Botox, an FDA-approved drug, has beneficial effects for many conditions, each with different injection sites. Botox is commonly used to treat excessive sweating, muscle spasms, misaligned eyes, and chronic migraines.

Anxiety in purple text

And someday, it could be used to reduce incident anxiety.

Anxiety is a condition in which people experience difficulties with daily activities due to excessive feelings of worry or fear. Anxiety attacks the central nervous system by sending an alarm to the hormone release center in your brain.

New research looking at Botox-side effect reports suggests that Botox decreases feelings of anxiety. Patients undergoing Botox injections reported less stress than people undergoing different treatments for the same conditions.

Botox for Anxiety and Depression

Clinical trials in 2012 and 2017 focused on the association between Botox, depression, and related disorders such as anxiety. Studies show that people who had depression and underwent Botox treatment experienced fewer depressive symptoms. 

The new study from late 2021, published in Scientific Reports, conducted by researchers from Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of California, San Diego, and two physicians from Germany, specifically looked at patients with anxiety. They examined the FDA’s Adverse Effect Reporting System (FAERS) database. Nearly 40,000 people reported to FAERS the side effects they experienced after Botox treatment.

“A large number of diverse adverse effects are being reported to the FDA, and the main objective usually is to find those harmful side effects that had not been identified during clinical trials,” said Ruben Abagyan, Ph.D., professor of pharmacy at the University of California, San Diego, and one of the researchers. “Why don’t we do the opposite? Why don’t we find beneficial effects?”

Man receiving Botox injection in neck

Abagyan and the other researchers compared the reported anxiety risk of patients who underwent Botox to a control group. The anxiety risk was 22-72% lower for patients who’d received Botox treatment for the following:

  • cosmetic use for facial muscles
  • facial and head muscles for migraine
  • upper and lower limb injections for spasticity
  • torticollis (a rare condition where the neck muscles cause the head to twist to one side)

Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved Botox for depression or anxiety treatment, studies show a link between Botox injections and improved mental health symptoms.

The Relation Between Botox and Anxiety

The primary theory for why Botox might be useful to treat depression and anxiety disorders is facial expression. While it’s true that we smile because we’re happy or frown because we’re sad, the opposite could also be true; we’re so glad because we smile, we’re sad because we frown.

The amygdala is associated with emotional processing and facial expressions, and mood. A 2014 study provides strong evidence that the amygdala is sensitive to facial feedback (what your face is doing.) Botox temporarily paralyzes facial movement at the injection sites, hindering your ability to frown or furrow your brow and potentially making you feel happier by extension.

And someday, [Botox] could be used to reduce incident anxiety.

Is There Such a Thing As Botox Anxiety?

While there is no evidence suggesting that Botox causes anxiety, many people have questioned Botox injections’ side effects and long-term effects. Perhaps the only way Botox would cause anxiety is the nerves building up before the first Botox appointment.

However, as we’ve been discussing, most research shows that Botox reduces anxiety.

Some side effects of Botox include:

  • Muscle stiffness
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Swelling, pain, or redness in the injection site
  • Pain in neck muscles or back
  • Itching
  • Spasticity 
  • Rash
  • Fatigue
  • Ear ringing
  • Flu symptoms
  • Dry mouth
  • Incontinence

While the above symptoms may seem alarming, these symptoms are less common. Many people who have had a Botox treatment say that their face feels weird for a few hours, but there’s usually nothing to worry about.

FAQs About Botox Injections

Are Botox injections safe?

Botox injections are very safe when induced by a professional with experience in Botox treatment.

People who should not get Botox treatment include those who experience:

  • Bleeding problems
  • Eye problems such as glaucoma
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Seizures
  • Nerve disorders
  • Breathing problems like asthma
  • Allergies to other medications

Speak to your injector about any concerns you have before the appointment.

How long does Botox last?

There is no sure way to know how long Botox lasts as it depends on your age, wrinkle depth, and elasticity of your skin. However, Botox treatment typically lasts four to six months.

Some people wonder if they’ll see immediate results. Unfortunately, the results are not immediate. It generally takes about two weeks before seeing a physical difference. Always ask your provider if you’re concerned about the length of time it takes to show up.

Does crying affect Botox?

No, crying will not affect the results of Botox. Doctors recommend using your frown muscles after injection to help the Botox do its job efficiently.

After your Botox treatment, it’s best to relax for the remainder of your day while sitting upright for approximately four hours. However, because Botox doesn’t require any immediate care, you’ll be able to return to your normal activities as usual.

Will my eyebrows go back to normal after Botox?

Yes, your eyebrows will return to normal roughly five weeks after a Botox treatment.

Many people experience droopy or peaked eyebrows after a Botox injection. The reason for peaked eyebrows after Botox is that your practitioner has injected the frontalis muscle, making the outer eyebrows seem lifted in appearance.

The reason for droopy eyebrows after Botox is because your practitioner has injected the toxin into the circular areas of your eye, which pulls the eyebrows down.

Either way, your eyebrows will return to normal within six weeks after the Botox treatment.

Bottom Line: How Botox Relieves Anxiety

While Botox is not a replacement for antidepressants, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) medications, or proper mental health treatment, it could be beneficial to your existing treatment plan.

Botox treatment for anxiety is okay if you use other methods such as meditation to calm or reduce your anxiety symptoms. It is not good to use Botox as your exclusive anxiety or depression treatment. 

The anxiety risk was 22-72% lower for patients who’d received Botox treatment

Why Saber Plastic Surgery for Botox Injections?

Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS, is an American Board of Plastic Surgery-certified Los Angeles plastic surgeon. In addition to plastic surgery, she is also highly skilled in the application of Botox, dermal fillers, and other injectable cosmetic treatments.

She graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her plastic surgery residency at the University of Southern California (USC). She then completed a fellowship at New York University (NYU) in the extremely challenging and delicate area of hand surgery and microsurgery.

Dr. Saber offers a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Former patients of all ages and from all walks of life have praised not only their outcomes but her caring, thoughtful approach to all types of appearance and health-related matters.

To request a consultation, call 818-818-2939 or schedule a consultation online.

Dr. Saber takes her patients’ safety very seriously. Her facility’s Covid-19 patient safety procedures exceed all CDC and World Health Organization recommendations. Masks are required in our office at all times during the coronavirus pandemic.

The practice of Dr. Saber is located in Encino, CA, for patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park.

Dr. Saber graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the equally lauded University of Southern California. She then completed a fellowship at New York University in the extremely challenging and delicate disciplines of hand surgery and microsurgery.

Dr. Saber offers a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Former patients from all walks of life have praised not only their treatment outcomes but her caring, thoughtful approach to a wide array of appearance and health-related matters.
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    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    🏫 Stanford/USC/NYU Trained
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    ✨ Our patient is 4 weeks post Tummy Tuck and Breast Reduction.

Her scars are a bit fresh. Overtime they will heal and become less visible. ✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
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    ✨ Our patient is 3 months post-op from our Tummy Tuck and Fat Transfer for her Breast Lift procedure. 

She wanted to avoid implants, so we opted in for the subtle augmentation. 
We are absolutely thrilled with her results✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!

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    Happy Saturday 🫶🏼

  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

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    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020