Can I Use Botox if I Have Glaucoma (Open Angle?)

Question

David K. Isaacs, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, and in contrast to all of the other comments here, Botulinum toxin CAN be dangerous for people with Angle-Closure Glaucoma.

Botulinum toxin administered around the eyes for any reason (e.g. cosmetic procedures, blepharospasm, etc.) can cause temporary pupil dilation which in turn may lead to acute angle closure in high-risk populations. The pupil dilation may be present for 3 weeks and then disappears gradually.

Botulinum toxin can also lead to a temporary droopy eyelid (ptosis). Watch my video by clicking the link below.

See an experienced Oculoplastic surgeon when it comes to your eyes.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

There have not been reports of problems with botox or dysport increasing intraocular pressure so there shouldn't be a problem with glaucoma patients.  Certainly, ask your ophthalmologist if it is ok for your doctor to inject Botox if you have glaucoma.

Ken Landow, MD · Answer

as long as you're a candidate for botox, the fact you have glaucoma doesn't matter...in fact a study demonstrated botox injected around the eyes about 18 hours after an acute attack of glaucoma reduced the pain and improved quality of life...so go for it...

Emily Altman, MD · Answer

Glaucoma is usually due to an increase in intraocular pressure.  Botox does not have an effect on intraocular pressure.  Also, there are no reports of Botox inducing glaucoma in the medical literature.

	Botox was originally discovered as a treatment for wrinkles by a husband and wife team of doctors, an ophthalmologist and a dermatologist.  The ophthalomologist noticed that patients injected with Botox for ocular problems had reductions of wrinkles around the eyes.

Michael McCracken, MD · Answer

Olga,

	 

	There is no reason to believe that Botox will affect your intraocular pressure.  You should be able to receive treatments without any effect on your glaucoma.

Can I Use Botox if I Have Glaucoma (Open Angle?)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox has no effect on glaucoma

Answer: Botox has no effect on glaucoma

Answer: Botox OK in Patients With Glaucoma

Answer: Botox OK in Patients With Glaucoma

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Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can I Use Botox if I Have Glaucoma (Open Angle?)

Answers (10)

Answer: Botox has no effect on glaucoma

Answer: Botox has no effect on glaucoma

Answer: Botox OK in Patients With Glaucoma

Answer: Botox OK in Patients With Glaucoma

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.