Can I have Botox for excessive tearing eyes? (Photos)

Question

Hello, recently I had my tear ducts done in both eyes down first ... still tearing than December I had upper lid tear ducts done both eyes... yet I am still crying sometimes up to 10 hours/day, it is horrible, frustrating and embarrassing... Drs can anyone help me with a solution avoiding another procedure I was told by the surgeon that my tear ducts are not plugged and I believe is true because I can feel the warm tears draining in my throat, yet I am still tearing excessively in the outside.

Alan B. Brackup, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox is certainly not the first line of treatment for tearing, although I have injected it into the lacrimal gland for patients where other treatments failed.  It's of course difficult to tell from your photos, but your eyes appear somewhat prominent and there may be more going on than has been identified.  I would suggest you see an oculoplastic surgeon for further evaluation.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for this question.I am not aware of Botox being used for the treatment of teary eyes. Since you're already under the care of an eye doctor, I suggest you follow up with them as soon as you can.Best wishes, Dr. ALDO :)

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Botox is generally not used to treat excessive tearing of the eyes. I recommend following up with an ophthalmologist for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Bahman Guyuron, MD · Answer

You seem to have conjunctival irritation and whole host of conditions can cause excessive tearing including blocked ducts, allergy, virus infection and even, ironically, dry eyes which would be unlikely at your age. You really should consult an ophthalmologist.

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question Alan2248. I am sorry to hear about your
situation. Botox is a purified protein used to address wrinkles associated with
facial expression. Unfortunately Botox is not indicated for excessive tearing. Please consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Botox is not effective for excessive tearing. I recommend having a consultation with a board certified ophthalmologist. Best of Luck!

Melissa Toyos, MD · Answer

Botox is not indicated for excessive tearing and could in fact, worsen the problem. You do need to be evaluated by an ophthalmologist.  Excessive tearing can be caused by allergy, blocked tear ducts, and dry eyes to name a few. Sometimes people's eyes don't close completely when they sleep causing dryness to develop overnight especially if they sleep with a fan.  Check with an eye specialist - they should be able to get you on the right track.

Mark L. Mazow, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. You say you have  had surgery on your tear ducts, but it's not clear what kind of surgery you have had. There are many causes of tearing including blocked tear ducts, eyelid malposition, allergies exposure and a host of other causes. True over production of tears is very rare. Some will use small amounts if Botox directly into the tear gland off label, but the indications for this are very few. From your photos you appear to have some prominence of your eyes especially on the left side. This can cause malposition of your lids and potential closure issues. I would recommend an in-person consultation with an Oculoplastic surgeon for a complete exam.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

Botox is not effective for excessive tearing.  Be sure you are seeing a board certified ophthalmologist

Paul Pietro, MD · Answer

Hello Alan2248,Thank you for sharing your concern and photos with us. Although Botox can be used in many arenas both on label and off label, excessive tearing is NOT one of them. Best to see an Ophthalmologist for an in depth evaluation. Be well.

Can I have Botox for excessive tearing eyes? (Photos)

Answers (12)