I got Botox for my crows feet for the first time and experienced dry eye. Will this always happen?

Hello and thank you for your question. While dry eye is a rare side effect of Botox, it can happen if the injector inserts the needle too close to the bone. To prevent this uncomfortable side effect in the future, I highly recommend visiting a board-certified facial plastic surgeon for your next injection. Facial plastic surgeons have the necessary training and experience needed to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

I would highly recommend getting a formal evaluation with and treatment from a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and expert in facial sculpting. An experienced physician will be able to determine which technique will give you the result you're looking for. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Dear JJO60385,
This is indeed rare. If the needle hit the bone near the cross foot injection, the liquid muscle relaxer may have diffused to the lacrimal gland or onto the eyelash glands reducing the oil film / tear drop and giving you a the dry eye sensation. Hopefully, you achieved a reduction in the crows feet and a brow elevation with that!

Continue to use artificial tears until the tear functions return.

Injection site placement, dilution, product, swelling and bruising all affect individual effects. Consult with a talented and skilled Board Certified Plastic, ENT or Ophthalmologic Surgeon for your best results.
All the best!

It is not common for patients to experience dry eyes after Botox for the Crow's Feet area. Be sure to visit with an experienced injector to prevent this from occurring with future treatments.

Getting dry eyes from Botox is a rare thing, but could happen. To avoid this problem from happening again, it is important that you seek the services of board certified medical providers, Botox specialists, people who are trained and skilled in injecting Botox for cosmetic reasons.

This is a reported complication in the literature of Botox injections in that region. If you liked your results from the crow's feet injection and are willing to try it again, see if the same thing happens. If it recurs, then you know that you are more prone to dry eyes after Botox than other patients. You can supplement the lubrication to your eyes with over-the-counter, artificial tears — or equivalent. Ultimately, it becomes a risk/benefit discussion between you and your plastic surgeon.