Botox migraine treatment is a procedure that effectively puts an end to debilitating migraine pain that disrupts daily life. Migraines are generally caused by psychological or genetic factors and have no definitive cure.

Migraine pain typically occurs around the eyes, neck, and temples. The intensity of the pain is often so severe that individuals cannot perform daily activities, concentrate, or even sleep. This throbbing pain can sometimes last for days. However, with regular Botox treatment, it has become much easier to prevent migraines before they start. By applying Botox to pain points, it’s possible to stop migraines in their tracks.

Botox for migraine treatment is a quick and easy procedure, with fast results and increasing effectiveness as treatments are repeated.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a condition that typically manifests as attacks of severe pain around the eyes, neck, forehead, and temple areas, and the pain can last up to 72 hours.

Symptoms include severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, fainting, slowed thinking, and double vision. Due to the intensity of the headache, individuals may find it difficult to perform daily activities or even sleep.

The causes of migraines can be linked to genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Changes in brain chemicals are also considered to be among the reasons for migraines. The frequency of migraine pain varies from person to person. While some individuals experience migraines once or twice a year, others may suffer from them two to three times a week.

What is Botox Migraine Treatment?

Botox migraine treatment is a highly effective procedure for individuals suffering from migraines. Botox is injected into the points where nerves connect to the muscles that cause migraine pain. By preventing muscle contractions, it alleviates the pain. This relaxing, functional, and comfortable treatment improves the quality of life and eliminates the discomfort caused by migraines.

Who is a Candidate for Botox Migraine Treatment?

Botox migraine treatment is not suitable for everyone. It is essential to first be examined by a specialist doctor. In addition to receiving medical approval, the following criteria must be met for Botox migraine treatment:

Being at least 18 years old
Not being pregnant or breastfeeding
Having no risk of allergic reactions
Not having any muscle disorders that would prevent Botox treatment
Not being at high risk for blood clotting
Having no infections or wounds in the treatment area
Not suffering from neurological disorders (such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome)

How is Botox Migraine Treatment Performed?

Before Botox migraine treatment, the points for injection are determined, typically in areas such as the forehead, temples, neck, and back of the head. The treatment area is numbed using an anesthetic cream. Botox is then slowly injected into the predetermined points using a fine needle. The procedure takes around 10-15 minutes, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately afterward.

Botox works in migraine treatment by blocking the production of neurotransmitters at nerve endings, thereby reducing pain.

Botox Migraine Treatment Costs

The cost of Botox migraine treatment varies based on factors such as the dosage of Botox used, the brand of Botox, the doctor’s experience, and whether the treatment is combined with other procedures. To get an accurate price, a consultation is required. During the consultation, your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and provide an exact cost estimate.

Does Botox Migraine Treatment Provide a Permanent Solution?

Each individual responds differently to Botox migraine treatment. While some people experience complete relief from pain, others may notice a reduction in pain or symptoms. Even a reduction in symptoms can significantly improve a person’s daily life. The effects of Botox for migraines become more pronounced with repeated treatments. In some patients, results are observed after the second treatment, while in others, it may take up to the third session.

What to Pay Attention to After Botox Migraine Treatment?

After undergoing Botox migraine treatment, the following precautions should be taken:

The treated area should be protected from any impact. It is also important to avoid lying down on the treated area.
No water should come into contact with the treated area for the first 6 hours. After that, it is recommended to use lukewarm water when washing.
For the first 24 hours, the head should be kept upright, and bending forward should be avoided.
Avoid exposure to the sun and stay away from environments with high heat and steam, such as hammams or saunas.
Alcohol and smoking should be avoided.
No makeup or cosmetic products should be applied to the treated area for the first 24 hours.
Hairdressing services should be avoided for the first 48 hours.
The treated area should not be massaged or scratched.
Blood thinners should not be used for 48 hours.
Strenuous activities should be avoided.

When Does the Effect of Botox Migraine Treatment Begin?

The effects of Botox vary from person to person, but on average, they start within 2-3 days after the procedure. The full effect is typically seen within 10-14 days.

Is Botox Migraine Treatment Permanent?

Botox migraine treatment provides relief for a period of 4-6 months. In some individuals, the pain completely disappears, while in others, migraine attacks are reduced, symptoms disappear, or the pain lessens. If Botox proves effective, repeating the treatment every 4 months can be an efficient way to manage migraine pain on a continuous basis.

What Are the Advantages of Botox Migraine Treatment?

The advantages of Botox migraine treatment are as follows:

The individual is relieved from migraine pain, leading to a comfortable and higher quality daily life.
The procedure is performed without any incisions or the need for general anesthesia. It is a simple and comfortable treatment.
No pain or discomfort is felt during or after the procedure.
Since it is a natural treatment, the Botox application is not noticeable.
Migraine pain is prevented for a duration of 4-6 months.
When performed by an experienced doctor, it carries no risks.
Botox for migraines has no side effects or harm to the body.

Is Pain Felt During Botox Migraine Treatment?

Since Botox migraine treatment is administered via injection, no pain or discomfort is experienced. As a precaution, a local anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area beforehand. No needle sensation is felt during or after the procedure, and there is no need for pain relief medication.

Where is Botox Applied for Migraines?

Botox for migraines is applied to areas where the muscles that trigger pain are located, such as the neck, temples, back, scalp, and neck muscles. Botox is particularly effective when applied to the right and left occipital muscles located at the back of the skull.

How Often Should Botox for Migraines Be Administered?

Botox migraine treatment is not a permanent solution unless it is applied regularly. Administering Botox every 4 months (3 times a year) is effective in eliminating or reducing migraine pain. Regular repetition of Botox treatments increases both effectiveness and longevity.

Is Botox Migraine Treatment Risky?

Botox migraine treatment is safe when performed by a skilled and experienced doctor. For the treatment to be effective, it is essential to correctly identify the areas for injection and select the appropriate dosage during the consultation. Detailed information should be obtained before the procedure. For this reason, Botox treatments should only be performed by certified doctors in clinics, hospitals, or medical centers approved by the Ministry of Health.

Can Headaches Occur After Botox Migraine Treatment?

In rare cases, some individuals may experience headaches in the days following the procedure as a side effect. However, this is temporary and typically resolves after a few days.

Is Botox for Migraines Different from Aesthetic Botox?

The Botox substance (botulinum toxin) used in both migraine treatment and aesthetic wrinkle reduction is the same. The differences lie in the dosage and injection points. While both serve different purposes, Botox can be used for both migraine treatment and aesthetic purposes in the same session if desired.

What is the Composition of Botox Used for Migraines?

The Botox used in migraine treatment is the same as that used for aesthetic purposes. The difference in function depends on the dosage and the area of application.

Which Doctor Performs Botox for Migraines?

Migraine Botox is within the expertise of dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Selecting the injection sites and determining the correct dosage requires specialization and experience. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the doctor performing the Botox migraine treatment is both qualified and experienced.

Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS

Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.

This article February 13, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr

Botox Migraine Treatment