Treatment for Involuntary Facial Twitching in San Diego
Facial movements shouldn’t be involuntary. If you’ve been experiencing frequent blinking, twitching, or spasms on one side of your face, it may be more than just stress or fatigue. These symptoms could be signs of blepharospasm or hemifacial spasm. American Eye Associates offers safe, proven treatments to calm these symptoms and help you regain control.
What Are Blepharospasm and Hemifacial Spasms?
Blepharospasm is a condition that causes uncontrolled blinking or twitching of the eyelids, often on both sides. It typically starts as mild twitching and can progress to more forceful spasms that interfere with vision, reading, or driving.
Hemifacial spasms, on the other hand, typically affect only one side of the face. It starts with twitching around the eye and gradually spreads to involve muscles around the cheek, mouth, or jaw. Irritation or compression of the facial nerve usually causes this condition.
Both conditions are involuntary, and while they’re not life-threatening, they can be deeply disruptive. Many patients live with the symptoms for years before seeking a proper diagnosis.
When to Talk to an Eye Specialist
It’s easy to dismiss facial twitching, especially when symptoms come and go. But you may benefit from a medical evaluation if you’re experiencing:
- Frequent or uncontrollable blinking
- Eyelid spasms that make it hard to keep your eyes open
- Twitching that has spread to your cheek, mouth, or jaw
- Facial tightness or pulling on one side of the face
- Discomfort in social settings due to visible spasms
- Difficulty reading, driving, or focusing during episodes
Even if your symptoms seem mild now, early treatment can help reduce progression and improve your quality of life. We’ll take the time to listen to your symptoms and help determine the next steps.
Treating Blepharospasm and Hemifacial Spasms
The most effective treatment for both is BOTOX®, but not the kind you see in beauty ads. In these cases, doctors use BOTOX® medically to relax the overactive muscles that cause the spasms. It doesn’t change your face; it reduces unwanted movements and gives you back control.
During treatment, an eye doctor injects small amounts of BOTOX® into the affected areas using a fine needle. The injections are quick, relatively painless, and you can return to normal activities the same day.
Recovery and Results
Improvement typically begins within 3 to 7 days, with full results appearing around the two-week mark. You'll notice fewer spasms, less tension, and more control over your facial movements. While results are temporary, lasting about 3 to 4 months, many patients find that regular treatments help maintain long-term comfort and confidence.
Our eye specialist will work with you to find the right timing and dosage to keep your symptoms under control. And if your symptoms change over time, we’re here to adjust your care accordingly.