INTERCORRÊNCIAS NO USO ESTÉTICO DA TOXINA BOTULÍNICA FACIAL

Botulinum toxin, the causal agent of botulism, is the fermentation product of the bacteria Clostridium Botulinum. Toxins exist in 8 types, although in Brazil, only type A has ANVISA approval for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. Due to its versatility and specific mechanism of action, it has become a great option for both therapeutic and cosmetic use worldwide, given the great potential in relation to its minimally invasive technique. Botulinum toxin injections treat aesthetic problems induced or aggravated by muscle contraction, controlling local neurotransmission. However, there are some risks and possible complications arising from its use. The present study, carried out in the form of a narrative review, aimed to describe the possible complications arising from the therapeutic and cosmetic use of the toxin for facial rejuvenation. To this end, studies published in the last 10 years were selected, retrieved from the Google Scholar and CAPES databases that addressed the topic. In addition to complications at the injection site, such as erythema, edema, pain, ptosis of the eyelid or eyebrow and ecchymosis, there is a group of aesthetic and functional adverse effects associated with different muscular responses to botulinum toxin or its migration. These complications occur less frequently than injection-associated reactions, but their risks and consequences are potentially greater. There are no reports of serious or fatal complications resulting from the cosmetic use of botulinum toxin. Complications depend on the technique used, so it is important to have adequate knowledge and training on the application technique.