Botox is an injectable medication prescribed by cosmetic surgeons to temporarily remove wrinkles in the face. It can be used around the eyes and on the forehead area to remove crow's feet and other wrinkles around the eyes. The treatment is a type of botulism that causes a mild paralysis, and the medication can cause severe medical problems if it is used incorrectly.
Significance
Botox is approved for use in individuals age 18 to 65 for wrinkles between the eyebrows, according to the FDA. According to the Mayo Clinic, Botox can also be used to treat crow's feet on the outside corner of each eye. It is not recommended for use on the inside corners of the eyes or underneath the eyes. The injectable is not a permanent solution, but it can be used to temporarily reduce the wrinkles around the eyes.
Benefits
Botox, when injected around the outside corners of the eyes, will reduce wrinkles for up to 6 months. Unlike cosmetic surgery, Botox is not permanent, so if the results are not as desirable as expected, the effects will disappear gradually. Additionally, Botox injections require no recovery time, and if you receive a Botox injection you can return to work the same day.
Time Frame
Botox works gradually, so you may not see results for several days. The Mayo Clinic suggests that Botox may not work fully for approximately 2 weeks. Within 3 to 6 months, the Botox will wear off. The Mayo Clinic suggests seeing a cosmetic surgeon for follow-up appointments every few months to maintain consistent results.
Effects
Side effects of Botox injections around the eyes include bruising or pain around the site of injection, redness around the afflicted area, nausea, flu symptoms, facial drooping, facial weakness, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, headache and muscle weakness, according to the Mayo Clinic. These symptoms, as well as any additional side effects, should be reported to a doctor or to the FDA immediately.
Considerations
A cosmetic surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate for Botox around the eyes by looking at your medical history and types of medication taken. Additionally, a doctor may choose to do a complete physical to determine whether Botox is right for a patient. Medications that may interact with Botox include aspirin and other blood-thinning medications, as well as heparin and warfarin. Before discontinuing these medications, you should consult your doctor.
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