Botox® Experiences - Maureen DeStefano
My spasms started in 1999. I have a defective retina (a birth defect called a morning glory). Because of this defect, I believe that symptoms of HFS were there before 1999, but were unnoticed by me. The HFS is on the same side as my defect. When the spasms became apparent I would force myself to attempt to see through a blind eye. This diminished the spasms. When I discussed it with my GP he assumed it was from the eye muscles becoming atrophied. This does happen when a person is blind. After a year I noticed movement by my nose. I had, had extensive dental work done (implants) & asked the dentist. No muscles should be involved to cause twitching (I still wonder) I continued with the twitch until my husband's specialist in glaucoma mentioned it to me. He suggested a neurologist.
My neurologist completed neurological testing as well as a MRI. He made the diagnoses before the MRI, but wanted to insure that there was "Nothing else going on."
After the diagnoses he gave me the option for MVD, Botox® or drugs. I chose Botox®.
I now receive 5 injections of Botox® every 3 months. It is administered by another neurologist. She is a specialist in motion disorders. I receive one at the inner corner of my eye, one in the center above my eye, one in the outer corner & one under my eye. The other injection is placed into a tiny spot just beside my nose. She uses the least amount of toxin as possible. We did experiment at first to see what was best for me. Each person is very different. I feel very strongly that the expertise of the administrator is so important. It could make the difference between a drooping lip or not. I have never had a problem with drooping, even during our experiments. I have not yet reached the point of MVD. For now the Botox® is doing its job & I am pleased. I know the results I get now may not last forever. Pray they do. If you would like to discuss Botox® you may e-mail me direct.
Permission granted the HFSA to post Botox® Experience on website.
Maureen DeStefano, October 15, 2001
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