An eyelid twitch can sometimes manifest when a person is under emotional or physical stress. Although the twitch itself can be bothersome, it rarely impedes vision or is chronically persistent. In some cases, however, the eyelid contracts for an extended period of time, becomes difficult to open, may last several minutes to several hours, and occurs often. This condition is known as Blepharospasm, and although extremely rare, can be debilitating and cause functional blindness. People suffering from blepharospasm are often misdiagnosed with Dry Eye Syndrome because of similar symptoms associated with both conditions, including dryness, sensitivity to the sun and bright light, and excessive blinking and spasming. Unlike a simple eye twitch, Blepharospasm is a chronic condition and requires professional treatment to find relief from these symptoms.
| Symptoms of Blepharospasm |
| Uncontrollable muscle contractions around the eye |
| Excessive blinking and spasming of the eyelid |
| Sensitivity to the sun and bright light |
| Dryness |
Many patients find relief from Blepharospasm with the simple use of Botox® injections. Botox® is a cosmetic injectable commonly utilized to relax wrinkles in patients seeking anti-aging cosmetic enhancement. Botox® is composed of a botulinum toxin which relaxes targeted muscles to smooth wrinkles, but in addition to cosmetic purposes, Botox® is also used for medical treatments to relax the over stimulated muscles which fire during hyperhidrosis and contract during Blepharospasm. Although Botox® injections do not work for everyone, they have a 90% success rate of temporarily eliminating the spasms, contractions, and twitching seen in those suffering from Blepharospasm. Patients who were once considered functionally blind despite perfect vision because of the severity of their condition will likely find relief with this minimally-invasive injection.
Botox® is a simple, fifteen minute, in-office procedure. During treatment, the botulinum toxin is injected directly into the muscles that are being over-stimulated. Some patients find instantaneous relief from this condition directly after treatment, but most patients must wait 2 to 3 days before treatment becomes effective. Relief from Blepharospasm symptoms will last for over 3 months. Patients will need to return for treatment after this time to maintain their results. If treatment should cease without further maintenance appointments, symptoms will return to their original intensity. Side effects and downtime associated following this treatment are minimal. Some swelling and temporary bruising may potentially occur at the injection site.
At Miami Eye Center, Dr. Joseph Selem will meet with you during your private consultation to assess your individual situation. Dr. Selem can help you decide if Botox® in Miami is right for you. See the beauty in yourself and the world around you in crisp, clear detail today! Request an appointment online or call Dr. Joseph Selem and the staff at Miami Eye Center at 305-444-0221 to schedule your private consultation.
