Woman’s Botox Treatment Leads to Facial Paralysis and Pain

A woman’s experience with Botox injections for jaw pain has taken a troubling turn, resulting in facial paralysis and significant discomfort. Bobbi Althoff, seeking relief from long-standing jaw pain, received an unexpectedly high dose of Botox, which has severely impacted her ability to perform basic functions such as smiling, talking, and eating.

Althoff initially consulted a dentist, hoping to address her persistent jaw issues. “My jaw has just always hurt,” she stated, explaining her decision to find a specialist through an online search. The dentist diagnosed her with a “muscle problem” and recommended Botox as a treatment. Despite her reservations, stemming from a previous negative experience with Botox in 2023, Althoff felt pressured to proceed after the dentist reassured her about the benefits.

During the consultation, the dentist suggested administering a total of 100 units of Botox, significantly more than the 20 units she had previously received. Althoff expressed concern about the amount, stating, “When he said 100 units, I was like, ‘That feels like a lot.'” However, she felt compelled to accept the treatment after the dentist insisted it would alleviate her pain.

After spending approximately $1,500 for the treatment, which involved injections in both temples, Althoff faced immediate complications. In a video shared online, she described how the treatment left her facial muscles immobilized, stating, “I can’t smile.” Althoff showcased her restricted facial movement, noting, “My face is frozen!”

The complications did not end there. Althoff reported experiencing pain while talking and eating, along with severe migraines due to the strain on other muscles that were now compensating for the immobilized areas. When she reached out to her dentist for support, she received minimal guidance. According to Althoff, the dentist informed her that she would need to “wait for the Botox to wear off,” which could take up to three months.

In her video, she expressed frustration and sadness about her situation, saying, “For the next three months, I’m just going to look stupid.” Althoff’s distress was evident as she shared her struggle with the physical consequences of the treatment, highlighting a lack of aftercare and support from her healthcare provider.

This incident serves as a cautionary tale for individuals considering cosmetic procedures. It underscores the importance of thorough consultations and understanding the risks involved in treatments such as Botox, particularly when administered in high doses.

Althoff’s experience raises questions about patient safety and the responsibilities of medical professionals in ensuring informed consent. As the popularity of Botox continues to rise, it is crucial for patients to approach such treatments with caution and seek second opinions when significant medical interventions are suggested.