Prominent Veins After Botox for Crow's Feet

Question

I had Botox for crows feet eight months ago. The Botox effects are gone (and they were not good), but now I have what looks like a varicose vein next to the corner of each eye. I did not have this before. I know the doctor punctured a vein on the worst side because I got a big lump and bruising, which took a week to subside. Now eight months later, I have the popped veins near the temple area of each eye. What can be done about this?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Chloerose.  
We're sorry to hear about your bad experience with Botox. Although the events you describe, the Botox and injections and the appearance of the veins, may seem related, most likely they are not. The bruising caused by the Botox is one potential side effect, but should have resolved without the effects you describe. Since the veins are present on both sides of the face, it's even more unlikely these events are related. 
Depending on how large the veins are, there are several options including:

Sclerotherapy
Laser Treatments

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

In all likelihood it is a coincidence that you noticed these veins. Botox does not cause changes to veins. The puncture occurred on one side and cause a small bruises. However, you say the veins are on both sides. So, that rules out the puncture as a cause just based on that information. However, a puncture does not cause a prominent vein anyway. You should focus your energy on the treatment of the vein and not look for people or reasons to blame. There are several treatments available, including laser, which may be effective for you. Just talk to your local plastic surgeon or dermatologist and they will be able to evaluate you. You may want to post pre and post Botox pictures and recent pictures with these veins if you would like more specific advice. Good luck.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

Although you may be more aware of the presence of veins in this area, Botox is not known to cause increasing prominence of venous structures.  I am not sure what is the explanation for what you are observing but it does not seem to be related from a medical standpoint.
I am sorry that I could not provide you with a better answer to your question.

Carmen Kavali, MD · Answer

Everyone has very superficial veins around the outer eyes in the "crows' feet" region.  If you're using Botox or Dysport to treat your crows' feet, it is possible to get a little (or big) bruise around the eyes if the needle hits one of those little veins.  Fortunately, this isn't terribly common. 

	Also fortunately, Botox and Dysport do not have any effect at all on the veins themselves. If you have prominent veins near your eyes, they can be treated, typically with laser.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Botox had nothing to do with the veins near the corners of your eyes. This is very common and you probably just noticed them.

Prominent Veins After Botox for Crow's Feet

Answers (9)