Dermatologist used Botox along eyelash line instead of Lidocaine to numb area before removing skin tags.

Question

I cannot close my eyelid unless I squint real hard. How long will this last? Having problems with dry eye. I've heard of droopy eyelid but not one that will not close from Botox in the eyelid.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

No physician would knowingly use Botox instead of lidocaine for numbing. There are two muscles that work on the eyelid. One closes the eye, the other opens it. In your case, the muscle that closes the eye is likely weakened (In fact, we sometimes use Botox to weaken this muscle for people suffering from eyelid spasms).  It is important to lubricate your eyes. The good news is that Botox effect is temporary, lasting up to 3-4 months. Discuss with your physician and consider seeing an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist.

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

I often place botox along the eyelid margin for patients with blepharospasm associated pseudo-apraxia of eyelid opening.  Only rarely will it cause ptosis.  However, botox placement around the eyes does weaken the orbicularis muscle, which closes the eye.  Therefore if it is weakened then it will temporarily cause diminished eyelid closure and drier eyes.  If your having problems I would see an optometrist or ophthalmologist.  Most patients do well with an over-the-counter artificial tear like "Blink" or "Systane" or "Genteal."  I've included a reference I published on use of botox along the eyelid margin for the "apraxia" --difficulty of opening the eyes.  I would expect your dry eye issues to clear up pretty quickly (probably within 6 weeks).  Best regards.

Lee P. Laris, DO · Answer

Obviously the Doctor placed the Botox in the area by accident thinking it was lidocaine. This should wear off but may take months. I would visit an ophthalmologist for recommendations on a topical re-wetting solution or ointment. The ophthalmologist will also probably advise you to tape your eye closed at night so that you don't develop dry eye and corneal irritation problems.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I'm sorry, but WHAT??? Botox is NOT a numbing agent. It does not numb things like lidocaine. The doctor told you he put Botox in? As a side note, this would cost the doctor a ton of money! Botox costs hundreds of dollars a vial. Lidocaine costs about $1.50 a vial. I have no idea why any doctor would do this from the standpoint that it wouldn't work and it would cost an outrageous amount. Do you just "think" this is what the doctor did because your eyelid isn't functioning properly??"This
answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be
held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment
with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Dermatologist used Botox along eyelash line instead of Lidocaine to numb area before removing skin tags.

Answers (4)

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