ABSTRACT
This chapter ponders the medicolegal concerns that need to be considered of cosmetic treatment with botulinum toxin injections, made even more imperative by its popularity. Although a very safe substance when used with appropriate dosing, BoNT-A injections can be associated with complications, which in turn can result in medicolegal concerns. The most common complication is patient dissatisfaction, which can be directly related to poor patient-physician communication. Rare and more serious complications include dysphasia, muscle weakness, allergic reactions, and flulike symptoms, though these are not reasonable risks to discuss with patients seeking facial cosmetic injections. However, the physician has a “standard of care” they must represent, informing the prospective patient of potential risks. If, for whatever reason, a medical malpractice suit materialises, the standard of practice is decided by an expert witness in the field, not in accordance with the manufacturer's suggestions. In conclusion, physicians performing cosmetic dermatologic procedures are encouraged to institute certain measures, such as a good rapport with them and pre-screening, to avoid potential litigation.
