Black eyes after botox, is this normal? (photo)

Question

Hi,I am Mark from the Netherlands. Two days ago i've had botox for my crow's feet (6 units total, 3 units p. eye); but now i look like i've been in a bar fight! It's getting worse by the hour :(How can it be not the spots that were injected are black and blue but under my eyes, a different facial region, it is? Is this normal or is the injecting doctor to blame?And how long will this last?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You have a fairly significant bruise from Botox, unfortunately bruising is a potential side effect from injections. Try to avoid ASA, ibuprofen and alcohol for a few days before injections to decrease bruising potential. You can try to minimize bruising my applying traumeel cream to the area. Hope this helps,

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Anytime you have an
injection of Botox, there is a risk of a bruise. If you develop a bruise I would:

1)  Take the supplement Arnica
Montana 
2)  Cold compress for 2 days
3)  Switch to warm compress after 2 days.
 The warm compressed with help the bruise resolve.The bruising you have is completely normal.I hope this helps.

Jay H. Ross, MD, FACS · Answer

That is a very good question. All of the neurotoxins take time to work and the results are not instant. You need to give the injections at least one full week. The duration of treatment is approximately 3 months.It appears like you got a bruise from the needles. You can try Arnica and Bromoline

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is a question that we
get asked often by our patients. The most common SIDE-EFFECTS of toxin
injections include: Swelling, Redness, and Bruising at the site of injection. Complications
are rare and only temporary, but may include paralysis of other nearby
muscles, temporary eyelid ptosis (dropping of eyelids, 2% risk, lasts 2-3
weeks), temporary brow ptosis (dropping of eyebrows, 2% risk, lasts 2-3 weeks),
cross-eyes, ectropion or edema of the lower eyelid, dry eyes, double vision,
transient headaches (10%), local numbness (lasting 2-3 weeks), flu-like
symptoms, rash at the injection site, pain at the injection site, infections,
and bruising (need to avoid blood thinning medications). Cold compresses
may be used immediately after treatment to reduce swelling only if needed. This
may be applied for 3 minutes, 3 times per day, for up to 3 days. This is best
done with a bag of peas in a zip lock bag. Only apply light pressure to the
area. Only take Tylenol if you get a headache or migraine.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Botox in the crow's feet would cause bruises on the side of the eyes.  Did you get filler injected under the eyes? Fillers under the eye area often cause bruising like you are describing.  Best, Dr. Green

Black eyes after botox, is this normal? (photo)

Answers (5)