Why Do I Have a Bloodshot Eye and Pain in Eye 3 Days After Botox?

Question

I recently had Botox injected into my forehead and between my brows 30 units total. 2 days later, I woke up to pain in my right eye, and a very bloodshot eye. I went back to the medspa where I had it done, and was told it was unrelated. A trip to my eye doctor revealed I have inflammation in my eye. Dr prescribed me prednisolone eye drops. 3 days after using that drops my eye continues t worsen. Redness is worse, pain in worse. No discharge and my eyes aren't watery. Could this be from Botox?

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

This is not a typical side effect of Botox, and likely a coincidence. I would recommend following up with your eye doctor, as they will be able to provide you with advice on the issue. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

Steven J. Covici, MD · Answer

This is most likely not do to the Botox toxin itself. However, if the Botox affects the muscles that close the eyes, the eyes can get dry and secondarily red and irritated. This side affect can be minimized by using small amounts of botox around the eyes. It is less likely to occur when just used in the glabella or forehead. In either respect, I think your red eye should resolve in a timely manner.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

This doesn't sound like a Botox side effect, however be in touch with your provider and give them the information so they're informed of what's happening, in case you return for further treatment.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

Having said that, I have been doing treatment with botulinum toxin since 1988. I have never seen BOTOX cause ocular inflammation. So I would say that the ocular inflammation is coincidental. However, should you be treated again in the future and develop the same inflammation, we would say that the ocular inflammation is a type of idosyncratic reaction that you develop. That does not mean that the BOTOX causes the inflammation. It could be that the stress of the treatment is your trigger.

Mireille Chae, MD · Answer

It is unlikely that Botox is the reason for your eye symptoms.  Most likely it is coincidental.  I would followup with your eye doctor for continued care.

	(This answer is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ general education only.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for further evaluation of your individual case.)

Why Do I Have a Bloodshot Eye and Pain in Eye 3 Days After Botox?

Answers (8)