Can I Have Botox® While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
"I'm 7 weeks pregnant and usually have Botox® every few months. Is it safe to keep going? What about once the baby arrives and I'm breastfeeding?"
Anon, Hobsonville
The short answer is no, and it is the same answer you should get from any injector worth seeing. Injectable treatments such as Botox® during pregnancy or while you are breastfeeding are contraindicated. Not because we know they are harmful, but because we do not know that they are safe.
Injectable treatments have not been formally tested on pregnant or breastfeeding women, for fairly obvious ethical reasons. Cosmetic treatments are elective, which means there is no reason to take even a small unknown risk when it can simply wait.
If you had treatment before you knew you were pregnant, do not panic. It occasionally happens and there is no clear evidence linking a routine appointment before pregnancy was known with harm. Do mention it to your lead maternity carer, though, so it is documented properly.
That said, not everything has to stop. Other treatments such as microneedling or a select few chemical peels are safe, although they need to be chosen carefully, with pregnancy-safe ingredients.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are a temporary part of life, that need to be about keeping Mum and baby safe. Cosmetic treatments are a wonderful way to feel more like yourself after it passes, but for now enjoy the beauty of this special time.
Once you have finished breastfeeding, there is no set waiting period before restarting Botox®, so you can return whenever you feel ready. We can take a fresh look at your skin and work out what suits you now, as your priorities may have changed since your last visit.
Quick Answers
Can I have Botox® while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Injectable treatments such as Botox® should be postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding because there is not enough evidence to establish its safety.
What if I had Botox® before I knew I was pregnant?
Try not to worry. There is no clear evidence linking a routine appointment before pregnancy was known with harm. Mention it to your lead maternity carer so it is documented properly.
Is a small amount of Botox® safe during pregnancy?
There is no established safe cosmetic dose during pregnancy, so having fewer units does not change the recommendation to wait.
What other cosmetic treatments can I have during pregnancy?
Some treatments may still be suitable, including microneedling and selected chemical peels. We can discuss these at a consultation, as the treatment and any products used alongside it need to be appropriate for pregnancy.
When can I restart Botox® after having a baby?
If you are breastfeeding, our advice is to wait until you have finished. Once you have finished, or if you are not breastfeeding, we recommend a consultation before restarting Botox®, as your skin and treatment priorities may have changed since your last visit.
If you have a question for Dr. Heather you would like answered anonymously, please email askdrheather@allor.co.nz
Written by Dr. Heather Anderson, MBChB, BSc, FRNZCUC, PGDip Cosmetic Medicine, NZSCM | ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine, Auckland
Botox®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Allergan, Auckland.