How many units of Botox should I realistically get?

Question

I’m 62 years old. I’ve had Botox before but it’s all worn off now. Can’t afford fillers at the moment so I want to do what I can with Botox. Definitely want to do the neck bands, forehead, 11s, crows feet, a lip flip (smokers lines) and have the corners of my mouth lifted. I’m thinking maybe Botox in the chin too? I’ve kind of figured on 108 units total. Could I get some guidance as to how many I should plan on? Thanks!!

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

In person exam is essential. Based on limited photo - it appears that in order to achieve the best result- you would benefit from a facelift/ neck lift with muscle tightening along with non-surgical treatments, i.e. RF microneedling, biostimulators, HA fillers and neuromodulators such as Botox to maintain the best skin quality . If you only can afford Botox - the result will be of course temporary and minimal . It will temporarily improve your glabella muscle, forehead lines , crow's feet  ,etc - it will need to be repeated every 3-6 months . I suggest that you consult with an experienced Board Certified PS and review your options

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Your estimate is within a reasonable range for everything you’re hoping to treat. That said, the total can vary quite a bit based on the provider’s technique and approach. Botox isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the ideal dosing really depends on your muscle activity, anatomy, and goals. I’d focus more on finding a trusted, experienced injector than sticking to a specific number. It’s also worth keeping in mind that it can take a couple of treatment cycles to fine-tune the exact number of units that works best for each area and gives you the most natural, balanced result.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

You’re thinking very thoughtfully about this, which I appreciate.

If we break it down realistically:

Forehead: ~10–20 units
Glabella (11s): ~20–25 units
Crow’s feet: ~12–24 units
Neck bands: ~20–50 units (varies a lot)
DAO (corners of mouth): ~4–8 units
Lip flip: ~4–6 units
Chin: ~4–8 units

Danielle Shanley, MD · Answer

Hi!
  Good questions! My suggestion is that you make a consultation appointment with a trusted injector near you who can give you even more professional advice to how many units exactly you would need.  If you are interested in getting your neck bands, forehead, 11's, crow's feet, lip flip, smokers' lines, and your chin you could be looking at well over 100 units, like you said. The best advice I have for you is to meet with a trusted injector because they will be able to point you in the right direction to obtain the results you are looking for in the budget you want to stay in!

Kally Papantoniou, MD, FAAD · Answer

108 units isn’t an unreasonable estimate for everything you listed, especially once you include the neck. That area alone can take a good amount depending on how strong the bands are.

That said, I wouldn’t get too set on a number. Dosing really depends on how your muscles move and how much softening you’re looking for. Some areas may need less than expected, others more.

If you’re trying to be budget-conscious, you’ll usually see the most impact starting with the 11s, forehead, and crow’s feet, then adding lower face or neck later.

An in-person evaluation will help fine-tune the plan so you’re not over- or under-treating.

Kyle Kimura, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. 
In general it's hard to determine exact dosages just by looking at a photo, but my general starting point is around 30-40 for the forehead/glabella and crows feet. Potentially another 4-6 for lip flip (though this does not address smokers lines) and 10-15 for corner of mouth. Another 20 for the neck. So conservatively maybe around 60-80 units not including the chin. I also like to start lower with the option to add more as needed. 
Hope this helps!Kyle Kimura, MD

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Visit with an expert injector for an evaluation and to begin treatment.  Generally the breakdown of units is: Glabella (11's)- 20 to 25 units, neck bands-8 to 10 units per band, forehead - 8 to 10 units, crows feet- 10 to 15 units per side, lip flip- 4 to 6 units, and chin dimpling- 4 to 6 units.  These numbers may vary by patient.  Treatment is done in the office with final results seen after two weeks.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on the post photo, the range would be from 80 units to 150 units therefore best to determine a time of visit of the licensed medical injector to determine amounts to be used some patients divided into two office visits approximately 10 days to two weeks apart. Best of virtual concert with. Expect fees to range from $2000-$4000.

How many units of Botox should I realistically get?

Answers (8)

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