Botox can, and for some does, cause dry, bloodshot eyes. The FDA agrees. Doctors please don't delete this; don't be defensive.

Question

I've seen a few posts regarding this topic; all summarily dismissed with some irresponsible answers. From: In 20 years I've never seen it To: The procedure must've made you anxious I had the same issue (red eyes). After 2 weeks I looked it up. The FDA approval of Botox states that dry, red, or watery eyes are a side effect. Maybe a direct reaction/allergy to the drug, maybe the result of the changes it makes to the general area; both? Please don't delete this. Just be thoughtful.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

There are various side effects that pertain to Botox. As there are various reasons for dry/ red/ watery eyes. Without a full medical history and in person assessment it is difficult to give an accurate judgement. Yes, it is a possibility your condition is caused by Botox, in which case it will wear off in approx 3 months. Although, you may require a consultation with an optometrist.

Parker A. Velargo, MD, FACS · Answer

If the Botox is injected too close to the lacrimal gland, it can decrease tear production and cause dry eyes.  If Botox is injected in significant quantities to the muscle under the 
lower eyelid, you can be left with some difficulty closing the eyes, which can also contribute to dry eyes.  This is because the muscle is no longer able 
to contract or tighten as before the treatment.  It's not an allergy -- it's an anatomical issue.  It's rare that this stuff occurs, but you can lubricate your eyes with artificial tears until the Botox wears off.  I feel only "core" injectors should perform cosmetic injectables (facial 
plastic surgeons, plastic surgeons, dermatologists, or occuloplastic 
surgeons).  This is because we all have a keen understanding of facial 
anatomy and the effects of injecting Botox/ Xeomin/ Dysport and fillers in different
 regions of the face. I wish you well!

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

Botox injections around the eyes can certainly cause the eyes to become red, dry.  They weaken the muscles that cause wrinkles.  Wrinkles around the eyes are caused by the orbicularis muscles that also close the eyes.  Therefore if they are weakened by Botox they will not blink or close over the eyes as well and can cause dryness, redness in some patients.  In fact, under rare circumstances we will inject the main lacrimal gland area of a patient with "Crocodile" tears from misdirected 7th nerve fibers to make the gland produce less tears.  Sometimes injections over the lacrimal gland area for wrinkle improvement may affect this tear gland as well.  Usually, however with the use of quality artificial tears or lubricants this situation of botox worsened dryness is quite well tolerated.  I practice in Colorado and most adults have some degree of dry eyes, and I still inject botox injections to the crows feet areas without significant concern.  I will place less to the lower eyelid areas in severe dry eye patients.  I hope this helps. I'm sorry if you have had red, dry eyes after botox.  The effect should wear off as the botulinum effect wears off in a few months.  Best Regards.

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

Just FYI, we can't delete any of the questions on RealSelf as long as RealSelf agrees they are appropriate to ask. There is a whole slew of things that are listed as "possible side effects" from Botox, but that doesn't mean we see them often, or really, ever. So to have a doctor tell you "I've never seen it," is an honest answer. Personally, I've never seen it either and I've injected Botox for over 20 years. But if any issues were reported by anyone during a trial for Botox with the FDA, then they get listed as possible side effects. You can see a full listing for Botox and any cited side effects in the link below. I can't tell you why you got red or dry eyes, but I can say that anything that came from the Botox will go away when it does, which is in 3-4 months' time. "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."

Botox can, and for some does, cause dry, bloodshot eyes. The FDA agrees. Doctors please don't delete this; don't be defensive.

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox and red, dry eyes

Answer: Botox and red, dry eyes

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Everything you need to know about Botox

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Botox can, and for some does, cause dry, bloodshot eyes. The FDA agrees. Doctors please don't delete this; don't be defensive.

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox and red, dry eyes

Answer: Botox and red, dry eyes

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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.