When Can You Have Botox and filler Post-Covid Vaccine?

With many getting vaccinated against COVID-19, there has been increased speculation around the impact the vaccine can have on your body and skin especially in regard to any dermal fillers you may have. In this feature, we speak to 111 Harley St. Founder & World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon, Dr Yannis Alexandrides on the safety and regulations around vaccinations and facial filler and Botox.

It is said that customers who have had facial filler and had the vaccine, appear to suffer from facial swelling or react to the vaccine greater? Is this true? Are there studies to support this?

Dr Yannis: Whilst there have been cases that have surfaced, it is safe to say that it is only 3 out of thousands of patients globally who have suffered from facial swelling post-vaccine and this still hasn’t been determined as an outcome for having facial filler. The COVID-19 vaccine is still very new to the health and medical industry and so research is constantly being conducted to highlight any risks and if any risk arises, precautions are immediately put in place. It is currently undetermined to link filler, facial swelling, and the vaccine together and the two are still government & scientist approved.

Is it safe to receive botox after the vaccine? How long should patients wait until booking the appointment?

Dr Yannis: If you have never had any botox or facial fillers before, it is recommended that you wait for a 2-week grace period in case the body or skin experiences any side effects after the vaccine. However, if you have had facial filler before, there is no waiting period necessary, and can book your treatments as planned as there is no concrete evidence of any negative injuries or side effects.

Are there any side effects to potentially be aware of?

Dr Yannis: Not at this stage and with no proven cases it is very difficult to predict each individual’s response. For botox or facial filler generally, there are side effects to be aware of such as bruising, redness, and tingling but all side effects are dependent on each patient.

What is the safest way to get botox after the vaccine?

Dr Yannis: If you have any concerns, please book a consultation with one of our practitioners for their expert opinion – we can then determine the best course of action and timescale for your treatment.

Does a different variant of the vaccine affect when botox can be administered?

Dr Yannis: Currently the only case study that exists possibly linking facial swelling with the Covid Vaccine was the Moderna vaccine during clinical trials. However, the conclusive information from the report stipulated that the vaccine was administered after having facial fillers (not botox).