Los Gatos Doctors

Is the Orbicularis Oculi Muscle Ever Frozen with Botox Injections?

I read the paragraph below on an Oprah.com article, and was wondering if this muscle is commonly or ever frozen by botox injections? "When someone smiles out of genuine delight, a facial muscle called the orbicularis oculi involuntarily contracts, crinkling the skin around the eyes. Most of us are incapable of deliberately moving this muscle, which means that when a person fakes a smile, her orbicularis oculi likely won't budge."

A: Botox used for crows feet lines Yes, the orbicularis oculi muscles are often "frozen" with Botox to treat crows feet lines. That muscles is the one that closes the eyes, so the whole muscle isn't frozen, just the part infer the crows feet. I do believe that the smile of true delight shows much differently than a fake smile. Artfully done Botox shouldn't change that.

How Long Will Partial Eyelid Droop from Botox Last? (photo)

I was given Botox injections on 1/26/12. 5 days later on 1/31/12 I noticed that my left eyelid was drooping. My brows are even, only the one eyelid is drooping down close to the top of the pupil. I was prescribed Apraclonidine .5. It took a few days to start working, but now right after I use the drops my eyes almost look even, though still not 100% normal. Can anyone tell me when I may notice a permanent improvement? It's been 12 days since my injections. I'm desperate!

A: Droopy eyelid after Botox is temporary

Droopy eyelid after forehead Botox injection is a known complication but fortunately it is not common and completely reversible.  It will improve gradually and it usually takes four to six weeks before it isn't very noticable.  Some small weakness may be present for longer.

Botox to the Glabella Caused Under Eye Bags, Is This Normal? What Can I Do? (photo)

I had 8 units of Botox to the upper forehead a week ago. I went back because a still had a few lines above my brows. The doctor said i needed to have my glabella done to support the forehead. So she injected 8 units into the glabella. The next morning my eyes were swollen and I have HUGE bags under my eyes, that were NEVER there before. This was my very first botox experience and I'm worried sick that these bags won't go away. Is this common, is there anything I can do?

A: Botox takes a week to work

The Botox hasn't had time to take effect yet after just waiting over night.  The Botox takes a week to work so any changes you see over night are due to swelling or bruising from the injection or are unrelated to the treatment.  They aren't caused by the Botox.