Dr. Babak Azizzadeh on Why Botox May Seem to Wear Off Too Quickly
In a RealSelf feature, experts including board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh offered insight into a common concern among neurotoxin patients: why Botox and similar treatments sometimes appear to lose their effectiveness sooner than expected. Although most providers estimate Botox results last three to four months for many patients, individual experiences can differ significantly.
One factor discussed is the body’s potential to develop neutralizing antibodies over time. While all major neurotoxins rely on botulinum toxin, subtle differences in formulation can influence how the immune system responds. Dr. Azizzadeh notes that patients who have used the same product repeatedly for years may benefit from trying an alternative brand, such as Dysport, Xeomin, or newer options, to potentially restore longer-lasting effects.
Metabolic activity also plays a role. Individuals with high metabolic rates or low body fat may break down neuromodulators more rapidly, which can lead to a quicker return of muscle movement and wrinkles. Dr. Azizzadeh has seen this pattern particularly among long-distance runners and highly active patients.
Another contributor to perceived shorter duration is injection technique and dosage. If an insufficient amount of product is placed or if results aren’t fully assessed two weeks after treatment, patients may feel the effects wear off prematurely—even when the neurotoxin is working as intended.
Experts also note that aging skin and changes in elasticity can alter how results are perceived over time, even when neuromodulator activity is consistent.
Read the full New York Post feature here:
5 Reasons Your Botox Feels Like It Isn’t Lasting
Related Resources from The Facial Paralysis Institute:
- Facelifts in Their 30s: The Celebrity Trend of Reversing Fillers
- Botox Before Blepharoplasty?
- When Is the Best Time to Start Preventative Botox Treatments?
Dr. Azizzadeh Explores the Modern Surge in Facelift Popularity
In an expert commentary published by Plastic Surgery Practice, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh examines the renewed and rapidly growing interest in facelift surgery—and why today’s patients are embracing surgical rejuvenation more than ever before.
Dr. Azizzadeh explains that the surge in facelift popularity is largely driven by significant advancements in surgical techniques, improved outcomes, and widespread filler fatigue among patients seeking longer-lasting, more natural results. Unlike traditional facelift approaches that focused on pulling skin, modern techniques prioritize restoring facial structure and repositioning deeper tissues to achieve a refreshed, authentic appearance.
At the center of this evolution is the deep plane facelift, which Dr. Azizzadeh describes as the most advanced and effective approach for addressing facial aging. By lifting the deeper muscular and connective tissue layers—rather than just tightening the skin—the deep plane technique produces results that look natural, youthful, and durable. He emphasizes that this procedure requires an exceptional level of surgical expertise, advanced anatomical knowledge, and a refined aesthetic eye.
The article also highlights the importance of deep neck contouring as a critical complement to facelift surgery, allowing surgeons to achieve a cohesive and harmonious rejuvenation of both the face and neck. Additional procedures—such as blepharoplasty, brow reshaping, facial fat grafting, lip lifts, buccal fat repositioning, and chin augmentation—may be incorporated on a personalized basis to enhance overall balance.
Dr. Azizzadeh further addresses the growing trend of younger patients seeking surgical solutions. While non-surgical treatments remain valuable, certain individuals—due to genetics or accelerated aging—may benefit from earlier surgical intervention. He stresses that careful patient evaluation and individualized treatment planning are essential to achieving optimal, long-lasting results.
👉 Read the full article on PlasticSurgeryPractice.com:
https://plasticsurgerypractice.com/client-objectives/aesthetics/new-choices-fuel-surge-in-facelift-popularity/
Dr. Babak Azizzadeh explains Bell's palsy in pregnant women on CBS
Tiffany Chen Opens Up About Bell’s Palsy After Childbirth
Martial artist Tiffany Chen, partner of actor Robert De Niro, recently revealed her ongoing struggle with Bell’s Palsy following the birth of their daughter in April. The condition, which affects about 40,000 people annually in the U.S., can be three times more likely in pregnant women—particularly during the third trimester or immediately postpartum.
Chen described the surprising effects of the condition, noting that her lips could no longer pull food into her mouth, likening the sensation to the aftermath of novocaine at the dentist. Initially misdiagnosed, Chen eventually received confirmation through advanced testing and began exploring treatments, including acupuncture, which she credited with providing noticeable improvement.
Joining the discussion was Dr. Babak Azizadeh, founder and director of the Facial Paralysis Institute in Beverly Hills. Dr. Azizadeh explained that while most patients regain normal facial function within months, about 20 percent may experience long-term complications such as synkinesis, where facial movements become disorganized.
Early treatment is crucial. Steroids administered at the first signs of facial drooping can significantly reduce the risk of permanent issues. In cases where recovery does not occur, modern options include Botox, physiotherapy, and specialized surgeries pioneered at leading centers.
Chen’s openness sheds light on an often-overlooked condition that can be emotionally and socially isolating. Many patients suffer in silence, avoiding smiling due to facial asymmetry, which can lead to depression. By speaking out, she is raising awareness and encouraging women to seek immediate medical attention when symptoms arise.
Related reading: Best Treatment for Bell’s Palsy
Watch the full interview here: CBS Mornings Coverage
Justin Bieber’s Recovery From Facial Paralysis Brings Attention to Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
In a Rolling Stone feature, global pop star Justin Bieber shared an encouraging update nearly nine months after being diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, a rare viral condition that can cause facial paralysis. In a recent Instagram Story, Bieber smiled on camera, signaling significant improvement after previously losing movement on one side of his face.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome occurs when the varicella-zoster virus affects the facial nerve near the ear, often leading to facial weakness, impaired blinking, and asymmetry. Bieber first revealed his diagnosis in June 2022, explaining that the condition forced him to pause and eventually cancel his world tour in order to focus on recovery.
At the time of the diagnosis, Rolling Stone consulted two facial paralysis specialists, including Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Azizzadeh noted that Bieber’s outlook was promising because his paralysis affected only one side of the face, suggesting that not all nerve fibers were permanently damaged.
According to Dr. Azizzadeh, recovery from facial paralysis can take weeks or months and, in some cases, up to a year. He emphasized that early treatment with high-dose steroids and antiviral medications significantly improves the likelihood of nerve recovery and restored facial movement.
Bieber’s gradual return to public appearances and surprise performances highlights both the physical and emotional challenges associated with facial paralysis. His experience has helped raise public awareness of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and the importance of early intervention, expert evaluation, and patience throughout the recovery process.
Read the full feature here:
Justin Bieber Gets His Smile Back Nine Months After Facial Paralysis Diagnosis – Rolling Stone
For more expert insights and related procedures, explore:
- Understanding Facial Paralysis and Its Causes
- Facial Reanimation Surgery Options
- The Importance of Facial Nerve
Dr. Azizzadeh Shares Approach to Balance: Why Surgeons Need Sweet Indulgences
BEVERLY HILLS, CA — In a recent HuffPost feature exploring how physicians balance health with personal enjoyment, world-renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh revealed the one treat he refuses to give up: Italian gelato with a wafer cookie.
The article, which surveyed doctors across various specialties including cardiology, dermatology, and plastic surgery, highlighted how medical professionals navigate their own nutritional choices while still allowing room for life's simple pleasures. The physicians interviewed emphasized that rigid restriction isn't the answer, and that occasional indulgences can actually support long-term wellbeing.
“Back in Los Angeles I usually have it once a week, but when I’m on vacation it becomes a daily treat,” Dr. Azizzadeh said. “It always takes me back to my medical school days, walking through Florence and exploring other cities in Italy on a backpacking trip.”
The feature underscores a philosophy that Dr. Azizzadeh brings to his practice at the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery: balance matters. Just as he advocates for treatments that deliver natural, harmonious results rather than overcorrection, his approach to personal wellness reflects the same measured perspective. Whether advising patients on recovery protocols or discussing skin health, Dr. Azizzadeh consistently emphasizes sustainable habits over extreme measures.
Other physicians interviewed echoed similar sentiments about allowing occasional indulgences without guilt. From family pizza nights to dark chocolate treats, the doctors emphasized that moderation and mindful enjoyment contribute to overall wellbeing, not just physical health metrics.
For patients at the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery, this balanced approach translates into care that prioritizes both aesthetic goals and realistic, sustainable outcomes.
Read the full HuffPost feature here:
Related resources:
- 8 Ways to Improve the Health of Your Skin
- 5 Most Common Skin Aging Problems and the Best Solutions
- Facial Rejuvenation Before and After
Dr. Azizzadeh Explains the Science Behind Buccal Fat and Facial Contouring
BEVERLY HILLS, CA — As social media continues to fuel demand for sculpted, contoured facial features, buccal fat removal has become one of the most talked-about cosmetic procedures. Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh recently shared his expert perspective on the surgery, emphasizing the importance of a customized approach to achieve natural, long-lasting results.
Buccal fat pads, located in the lower cheeks beneath the cheekbones, play a functional role in chewing and help define facial fullness. While the size of these fat pads varies from person to person, they tend to remain relatively stable throughout life. For individuals with naturally fuller cheeks who desire a more sculpted appearance, buccal fat surgery offers a potential solution.
However, Dr. Azizzadeh cautions that removing buccal fat isn't always the best approach. His preferred technique involves repositioning rather than simply extracting the tissue. "Instead of removing it, my technique is to move it to other areas that have lost volume over time and suspend it into place, such as in the upper cheek and deep nasolabial fold," he explains. This method helps restore balance to the face while avoiding the hollow, gaunt appearance that can occur when too much fat is removed.
The procedure itself is minimally invasive, typically performed under local anesthesia through incisions inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars. Recovery is generally brief, with most patients returning to normal activities within days. Still, full results may take several months to become apparent as swelling subsides.
Dr. Azizzadeh stresses that candidacy depends on several factors, including facial structure, skin elasticity, and individual aesthetic goals. A thorough consultation helps determine whether buccal fat repositioning, removal, or an alternative treatment is most appropriate for each patient.
Read the full article here:
https://www.glam.com/927101/try-buccal-fat-removal-surgery/
Related resources:
- Buccal Fat Pad Removal: What Is It?
- The Difference Between Buccal Fat Pad Removal and Cheek Liposuction: Which One Is Right for Me?
- Facial Fat Transfer in Beverly Hills
Buccal Fat Removal: Dr. Babak Azizzadeh Explains the Reality Behind the Trend
Over the past year, buccal fat removal has gained massive attention on social media, with countless celebrities and influencers showcasing more sculpted, defined cheeks. But what’s really behind this aesthetic trend? Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, recently shared his professional insights in ELLE, providing much-needed clarity about this increasingly popular procedure.
Buccal fat removal involves removing a naturally occurring fat pad from the lower cheek area to achieve a slimmer, more contoured appearance. According to Dr. Azizzadeh, while the surgery can produce beautiful results for the right candidate, it isn’t for everyone. “This procedure must be tailored to the patient’s anatomy and long-term goals,” he emphasizes. Removing too much volume can lead to hollowness as patients age, giving a prematurely gaunt or hollow appearance.
As Dr. Azizzadeh points out, achieving a youthful, harmonious appearance entails more than simply following passing beauty trends. His complete approach emphasizes maintaining balance and proportion, frequently combining surgical precision with non-invasive adjuncts. In other circumstances, he may advocate mild fat redistribution or a mid-face lift over dramatic volume reduction.
Patients interested in buccal fat reduction should consult with a trained, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who understands facial anatomy and the aging process. The goal isn't only to look slimmer; it's to improve the natural architecture of the face while retaining vitality for years.
To learn more about Dr. Azizzadeh’s personalized facial rejuvenation approach or to schedule a consultation, visit our Contact Page.
Read the full feature here:
Everything You Need To Know About Buccal Fat Removal – ELLE
For those curious about related procedures, explore these informative articles:
- Increase Your Confidence with a Facelift for Facial Paralysis
- Facial Paralysis Question & Answer with Dr. Azizzadeh – February Facebook Live
- Best Facial Paralysis Treatments To Know About
Dr. Babak Azizzadeh Weighs In on Teen Rhinoplasty and Emotional Well-Being
In a New York Post feature, a Las Vegas mother shared her family’s deeply personal decision to pursue rhinoplasty for her teenage daughter after years of bullying and emotional distress. The story highlights the complex intersection of self-esteem, mental health, and cosmetic surgery in adolescents, with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh performing the procedure.
The article follows Asher, who experienced persistent bullying at school focused on the appearance of her nose. Over time, the harassment significantly impacted her confidence and emotional well-being, leading her to rely heavily on makeup to conceal her appearance and withdraw socially. Her mother, Loren Lahav, emphasized that the decision to pursue surgery was rooted not in vanity, but in concern for her daughter’s mental health and long-term self-image.
After careful consideration and two years of saving, the family traveled to Beverly Hills, where Asher underwent rhinoplasty with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh shortly after her 14th birthday. Dr. Azizzadeh, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, is known for his emphasis on facial harmony, conservative surgical planning, and patient-specific evaluation—particularly in younger patients whose facial structures are still developing.
The feature also places the story within a broader cultural conversation, referencing similar scrutiny faced by public figures and their families when cosmetic surgery is performed at a young age. Loren Lahav pushed back against public judgment, stressing that each situation is unique and should be evaluated with empathy and professional guidance.
Following surgery, both mother and daughter reported significant improvements in Asher’s confidence, social comfort, and overall happiness. The story underscores the importance of individualized care, thorough consultation, and emotional readiness when considering facial procedures for adolescents.
Read the full New York Post feature here:
I Started Saving for My Daughter’s Nose Job When She Was 12 — and It Was Worth It
Related Resources from The Facial Paralysis Institute:
- Teenage Rhinoplasty: What To Know
- What Are Natural-Looking Nose Jobs?
- What Is A Revision Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Azizzadeh mentioned in Business Insider - Why Patient Safety Sometimes Means Saying No
BEVERLY HILLS, CA — In a feature published by Business Insider, world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh shared why he declines certain facial procedures, even when patients request them. His reasoning comes down to one principle: patient safety and natural-looking results should always come first.
Dr. Azizzadeh, who trained at Harvard and leads the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, revealed that he avoids performing lip implants, jaw implants, and facial liposuction. According to the article, both lip and jaw implants carry a higher risk of infection. For lip enhancement, Dr. Azizzadeh prefers dermal fillers because they deliver a more natural appearance compared to implants.
Facial liposuction is another procedure Dr. Azizzadeh won't perform. The treatment, which involves removing fat from the face to address chin fullness or drooping skin, can lead to nerve damage, scarring, and facial deformities. Dr. Azizzadeh noted that he has seen patients come to him after experiencing complications from the procedure performed elsewhere.
Beyond specific treatments, Dr. Azizzadeh also considers the mental state of potential patients. He estimates that he turns away about 10% of individuals who show signs of body dysmorphic disorder, a condition that causes people to become overly fixated on perceived flaws in their appearance. He explained that when patients point out details that most people would never notice, or when they arrive using highly technical medical terminology for cosmetic concerns, it can signal deeper issues that surgery won't resolve.
His approach reflects a broader commitment to thoughtful, patient-centered care, where achieving a balanced and natural result matters more than saying yes to every request.
Read the full article here:
Related resources:
- How Long Do Restylane Fillers Last?
- What Are Natural-Looking Nose Jobs?
- Is There Still a Stigma Around Plastic Surgery?
Dr. Babak Azizzadeh Featured in The Zoe Report: Expert Insight on the Rise of Buccal Fat Removal
Beverly Hills, California – October 2025 – With the rise of aesthetic trends on social media, such as buccal fat removal, it's important to approach these changes thoughtfully. Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a prominent facial plastic surgeon and founder of the Facial Paralysis Institute, emphasizes the need for caution. His expertise in facial aesthetics serves as a reminder to consider the implications of such procedures carefully. In a recent article by The Zoe Report titled “Everything to Know About Cheek Reduction Surgery — AKA Buccal Fat Removal,” Dr. Azizzadeh offered his insights. He discussed how to attain facial balance while preserving one's natural beauty. His expertise sheds light on this cosmetic procedure's nuances.
Buccal fat removal, also known as buccal fat pad excision, involves reducing fat in the lower cheeks to create a more sculpted look. While the procedure has existed for decades, Dr. Azizzadeh emphasizes that it must be performed with restraint and precision.
“Volume needs to be in the right place—that’s the art of the procedure,” says Dr. Azizzadeh.
Dr. Azizzadeh is known for his unique, patient-centered treatments, and he frequently uses a cautious approach, removing only a tiny amount of fat and repositioning it to improve cheek definition without creating long-term hollowing. His knowledge of facial anatomy guarantees that aesthetics and function are well balanced.
Dr. Azizzadeh also stresses that buccal fat removal isn’t suitable for everyone. Instead, he often recommends customized treatments such as facial fat grafting, fillers, or facelift techniques to achieve natural and lasting results.
Read the full article here: https://www.thezoereport.com/beauty/buccal-fat-removal
For those interested in learning more about achieving facial balance and rejuvenation, explore these related resources:
- Facelift Surgery for Facial Rejuvenation
- Best Facial Paralysis Treatments To Know About
- This Neurological Disorder Is the Leading Cause of Facial Paralysis