A Drop of Botox Under Eye or Not?

Question

I have never had any Botox before. I went for a consult in Scottsdale, AZ at a very reputable surgeons office. I was told that the bulge/wrinkle under my eye is caused by a muscle that most people don't have to treat. I'm 39 and wanting to look less tired. She recommended a DROP of Botox under the eye in that muscle ( besides numerous other places) but did warn me it could pull my eye down slightly. Do I try it under my eye? I've read some women getting more bags. I don't want that for sure. TIA!

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

A small amount of Botox under the eye is a great option if being performed by an experienced practitioner. If you were evaluated by a reputable doctor, I would follow their advice. Best of luck to you

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

An hypertrophic bulging orbicularis oculi muscle can protrude under the lower eyelid margin. This can be present since a youthful age but bothers many who have this as it appears that they are tired or old. It is not uncommon to treat this area with one unit or two of Botulinum toxin but it can weaken the support of the lower lid and should not be done in those who suffer from dry eyes, or who have chronic swelling from fluids, related to sinus, allergy or other problems. This is because the relaxed muscle won't contract and can no longer act to pump the retained fluid along the proper channels. Fortunately, this would be temporary if it occurs and goes away when the Botox wears off.

	The decision to have this done should only be made between you and the doctor examining you.

	The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.

Jeffrey Joseph, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox is very safe and proven in eyelid rejuvenation---however, only very small amounts placed very superficially should be used.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

If you went to a reputable practice, I would follow their recommendations, so long as this area is something you are interested in treating. Relaxing the muscle around the eye can be overdone, but with the right technique and experience, it will help that area of concern.

Daryl K. Hoffman, MD · Answer

A small amount of Botox for the lower lid is a very reasonable suggestion.  It's very unlikely to cause much of a problem with a small dose.  I think you should trust your Doctor's judgment.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

I always do alittle botox under the eyes when i do the smile creases on the sides of the eye. It only works 50% of the time but when it works, it is great and i don't charge extra for it. It is rare to cause any under eye problems but does need to be done by an advanced injector. Sincerely,

	David Hansen,MD

Steven Swengel, MD · Answer

Tia,

	I do this all the time under the lower lash line on the lower lids.  It helps to relax the muscle which causes fine creases on the lower eyelids.  I inject this subcutaneously and roll it back and forth across the orbicularis muscle to relax that muscle.  It also helps to open the eye to give people more of that almond eye appearance.  Just be sure it is never  over done.  I use about 2 units infra lash both sides.

Paul L. Leong, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a reasonable treatment for under the eye. A small amount of Botox can be the perfect answer to help with that bulge under the eye and is great for opening up small eyes. Always remember Botox is temporary so it's a great thing to try and if you like it great and if you don't, simply don't repeat the treatment.

Matheson A. Harris, MD · Answer

Botox given into the orbicularis muscle on the lower eyelid, when done in a conservative amount, can relax the bulge you are speaking of. In rare cases, it can cause loss of tone of the lower eyelid and a drooping of the eyelid away from the eye. It is best to start with a very small dose to avoid causing this problem.

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

1-2 units under each eyelid can work very nicely and safely to soften the lines under the eyes. If your physician is highly trained and experienced (e.g. dermatologist or plastic surgeon), it would be rare to run into any problems.

A Drop of Botox Under Eye or Not?

Answers (17)