Is Trapezius Muscle Reduction Surgery High Risk?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’d like to learn more about the trapezius reduction surgery. I have never seen this surgery offered anywhere else. My questions are as follows: 

1. Why are there so few surgeons offering it? Is it high risk? 

2. I have seen Botox offered much more frequently. Have you found Botox to be ineffective in some patients? If yes, could you elaborate as to why it may not work ? Or does Botox work but there are patients that want something more permanent? I just had my first round of Botox for trapezius reduction. I was told it usually takes 2 or 3 sessions to see an aesthetic change. What are your thoughts? 

3. Is general or twilight anesthesia needed? 

A: In answer to your trapezius muscle reduction surgery questions:

1) It is a very rarely requested procedure. Thus there is no reason he vast majority of  plastic surgeons would consider doing it. It is not a high risk procedure.

2) Like any muscle Botox injections, if enough units are given and done enough times, will have some reductive effect…albeit only temporary. But it is a good place to start.

3) The surgery is done under general anesthesia.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana