Botox for Crows Feet

The natural aging process combined with sun damage and environmental pollution can lead to the formation of fine lines and creases across the face. One particularly noticeable area where wrinkles tend to develop early is at the corners of the eyes, known as crow’s feet. Daily squinting and smiling can often deepen the facial lines surrounding the eyes, and although careful skincare practices like a high SPF sunscreen and a daily skincare routine with moisturizer and creams can help to prevent premature signs of aging, the development of fine lines and wrinkles is a fact of life. While wrinkles may be an unavoidable part of aging, we do not need to accept them. There are many anti-aging solutions available at Dr. Michele Green’s New York City private dermatology office. One of the best procedures to address creases at the corners of your eyes is Botox for crow’s feet.

Botox is the number one, most popular, non-invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States. Its ability to treat and reduce the appearance of fine lines, frown lines, forehead line and laugh lines has kept it at the forefront of cosmetic skincare treatments for over two decades. This injectable treatment works to smooth away wrinkles and creases by relaxing the muscles at the injection site for an overall more youthful appearance. Botox injections are able to not only reduce the appearance of crow’s feet lines, but also prevent further development of dynamic wrinkles. The Botox cosmetic treatment is a safe and effective way to restore the look of smooth, bright skin and prevent future wrinkles from forming all without the need for any incisions or downtime.

If you are interested in reducing the appearance of crow’s feet lines, board-certified, NYC cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Dr. Green was one of the first dermatologists in New York to incorporate Botox injections into the treatment plans of her patients looking to target fine lines and to reverse the visible signs of aging. Well known for her less-is-more philosophy and holistic approach to Botox and dermal fillers, Dr. Green supplies some of the most discerning patients around the globe with a natural, youthful look that simultaneously erases wrinkles and allows for full dynamic facial expressions. For her dedication to her patients and her practice, Dr. Green is consistently voted as one of NYC’s best physicians by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that is best suited to addressing your unique needs and achieving your personal cosmetic goals.

Before and after – Botox for crows feet

What is Botox?

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin type A, a neuromodulator that works to freeze the muscle at the injection site in order to smooth away creases and wrinkles. The treatment is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments available on the market today and works to treat dynamic wrinkles, or wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contraction. Over time, as production of collagen and skin elasticity decreases, the wrinkles that appear as a result of facial expressions begin to set into the skin. When Botox is injected into the muscle responsible for those creases, the botulinum toxin type A blocks the neurotransmitters at the injection site, which prevents the muscle from contracting. As a result, the muscle relaxes and dynamic wrinkles disappear. Botox treatment is FDA approved to address a variety of medical conditions, such as cervical dystonia hyperhidrosis, and cosmetic concerns, such as forehead lines, crow’s feet, smile lines, and frown lines.

Does Botox help with crow’s feet?

When patients ask, can Botox help with crow’s feet, the answer is: yes! Crow’s feet are some of the earliest wrinkles to form on the face. Thin, delicate skin surrounding the eyes means that dynamic wrinkles caused by the contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscle can set in when a patient is in their early 30s. These dynamic wrinkles that appear in a fan stemming from the corners of the eyes are often known as crow’s feet, and form as a result of facial expressions, such as squinting, smiling, or laughing. With the help of Botox injections, crow’s feet can be erased with several units of Botox per eye with no downtime necessary. Botox is an excellent solution to improve the appearance of crow’s feet without the need for downtime, unlike invasive plastic surgery procedures.

Due to Botox’s ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it can be used not only to reduce the signs of aging as they appear, but also as a preventative measure, stopping the development of wrinkles in their tracks. Many patients in their 30s and 40s have worked with Dr. Green to maintain their youthful glow while it’s still shining, thereby leading to younger looking skin in the long-term. Whether you’re looking to preserve your perfect smile or to reduce the appearance of lines around the corners of the eyes, Botox is an effective, recommended option for the majority of patients seeking crow’s feet cosmetic treatment.

How does Botox work for crow’s feet?

Botox is an injectable cosmetic treatment that is classified as a neuromodulator, meaning that it affects the nerve signals to targeted muscle groups in order to relax muscles at or near the injection site. Its active ingredient is botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that essentially “freezes” muscles, thus preventing facial muscles from developing wrinkles due to overuse. Botox has been FDA approved since 2002 for cosmetic use, and also has several medical uses, including treatment of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). When the Botox is injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle at the corner of the eye, the treatment works to block nerve signals to the injection site, which relaxes the muscle, smoothing out the skin and erasing the crow’s feet there. Not only can you get Botox for crow’s feet, but the treatment of crow’s feet lines seems to be the most popular use for Botox injections according to the Mayo Clinic.

Does Botox for crow’s feet look natural?

Botox for crow’s feet is designed to create a naturally youthful appearance and smooth out wrinkles without preventing full range of facial expressions. Sometimes, a patient may feel intimidated by the prospect of injectables, particularly for preventative care, for fear of a “frozen face” or the inability to create normal facial expressions. However, with a knowledgeable medical professional like Dr. Green, these risks are extremely low.

Dr. Green’s goal with any treatment is to fulfill your aesthetic goals while ensuring your safety and comfort, and she’ll work with you to make sure you have the natural look you’re seeking. For those who are nervous about trying Botox treatment for the first time, Dr. Green recommends a lower dosage to start, and then further consultation once the results are fully in effect. Plus, the results of Botox last 3-4 months, so any changes are completely temporary.

Woman treated with Botox for crows feet

How does Botox help crow’s feet?

Botox for crow’s feet is a simple, painless process that can be completed in Dr. Green’s office in as few as 10 minutes. You’ll begin with an initial consultation with Dr. Green, where she will assess the treatment area, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the treatment, or series of treatments, that will work best for you. When you arrive at the office for Botox treatment, Dr. Green recommends a topical anesthetic along the targeted injection site, in order to limit any potential discomfort. In order to prepare for your treatment, we recommend that you come with a freshly-cleaned face and avoid taking any blood thinners in the days leading up to the treatment to reduce the risk of bruising at the injection site. Dr. Green will then mark the injection sites and then perform the procedure using a thin needle. After treatment, you are welcome to clean your face and wear makeup as you normally would that day. The full effects of treatment should be apparent within 3-4 days afterwards, leaving you with a rejuvenated, relaxed appearance.

Is there any downtime from Botox for crow’s feet?

One of the greatest advantages of Botox treatment is that the procedure is able to erase wrinkles and reverse signs of aging without the need for any downtime or recovery time. Botox treatment is quick to perform and patients can immediately return to their regularly scheduled activities following their appointment. While some patients may experience slight bruising, as is a risk with any injectable, these side effects are mild and will resolve on their own within 48 hours of receiving treatment. Botox treatments for facial wrinkles are often referred to as “lunchtime treatments” as the process is so fast and simple!

Where is Botox injected for crow’s feet?

To know where to inject Botox for crow’s feet, one should always seek the advice of an expert in Botox injection. Dr. Green typically uses an ultra-fine needle to inject a small dosage of Botox into the muscle surrounding the eye, targeting the orbicularis-oculi. This injection site blocks the nerve signals to the muscles that cause crow’s feet, relaxing those small muscles in the treatment area, and creating smooth, youthful skin surrounding the eyes.

How many units of Botox for crow’s feet?

The amount of Botox needed for any procedure is dependent on the individual undergoing Botox treatment. Differences in the size of the muscle, the level of overuse of the specific muscle, and the depth of any lines or wrinkles can all change the dosage necessary, which is why working with an expert injector is so important. However, there are some standard unit measures that are common amongst patients which can be used as a guide. When it comes to crow’s feet, 5-15 units is the standard range for units of Botox. For more information on Botox unit recommendations, you can check out our reference page here.

How many units of Botox for crow’s feet and forehead?

When patients as about the number of units necessary for crow’s feet and forehead lines, the answer is: it depends. There are many factors that go into determining the number of units necessary, including the size of the treatment area, the severity of the wrinkles, and the patient’s own aesthetic goals. When it comes to treating crow’s feet, Dr. Green recommends 5-15 units of Botox per eye and in the forehead, 10-50 units. Dr. Green is well known for her less-is-more approach to Botox treatment, that allows patients to see the effects of the treatment without “freezing” their face. Dr. Green will make an examination of the treatment area and then determine the number of units of Botox that will be best to treat you.

Is 20 units of Botox enough for crow’s feet?

The exact number of units of Botox necessary for effectively treating crow’s feet is dependent on the needs of each individual patient. In order to eliminate the appearance of fine lines around the eyes without completely ‘freezing’ the area, Dr. Green will physically evaluate the anatomy of the eye area and the severity of the wrinkles to determine the number of units needed. Every individual patient presents with their own unique skin concerns and needs, and the number of units of Botox that is ‘enough’ for one patient may be too little or too much for appropriately treating another patient. It is important to consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who has the expertise and experience required to customize your Botox injection treatment so that you can achieve your ideal, natural-looking cosmetic results.

What is the best age to start having Botox treatment?

In the past, Botox has been popular amongst those who were interested in rejuvenating their look and preserving their youth, but were looking for a less permanent adjustment than something a plastic surgeon might offer. Today, Botox has been proven to be a flexible, reliable option for those seeking to reduce the signs of aging at any age. Since fine lines, such as crow’s feet around the eyes and forehead wrinkles are formed from dynamic muscle movement, the use of Botox early on will prevent this movement and prevent wrinkle formation.

Preventative Botox treatment starting with patients in their 30’s has become a popular, easy, and noninvasive way for patients to keep looking young and wrinkle-free as they age, as Botox’s ability to relax targeted muscles not only reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but also can prevent those lines from forming in the first place. Contact the office today to learn more about using Botox as a preventative measure, as well as what treatment plan will best fit your skincare needs.

How does Botox compare to other neuromodulators for crow’s feet treatment?

Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Daxxify, and Jeuveau all share botulinum toxin type A as the driving mechanism behind their success; they simply differ in their accessory proteins and final make-up. Each has a unique advantage and varying locations for which they are FDA-approved to treat wrinkles. Each of these neurotoxins, when used to treat crow’s feet, last three to four months in duration.

Xeomin – Xeomin is comprised of the active ingredient incobotulinumtoxinA and, similarly to Botox, is FDA approved to treat frown lines, blepharospasm, cervical dystonia, and upper lip spasticity. Xeomin is a unique neuromodulator that in fact does not have accessory proteins; it’s botulinum toxin in a pure form, and therefore can be an excellent treatment option for those who have developed any resistance to Botox or Dysport, which can occur over time with those who regularly use either of these treatments.

Dysport – While Botox injections consist of onabotulinumtoxinA, Dysport is made of abobotulinumtoxinA and is FDA approved to specifically treat the glabellar lines, or the “11 wrinkles” that form in between the eyebrows when you furrow your brow. Dysport is less concentrated than Botox and, as such, requires a greater number of units to achieve a similar affect, however, the molecules that make up Dysport are smaller than those of Botox, meaning the effects of the treatment can be seen after as few as 3 days.

Jeuveau – Created by the company Evolus, Jeuveau is comprised of prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs and is FDA approved for cosmetic purposes to treat glabellar lines. Jeuveau lasts for the same amount of time as Botox and effects show themselves at the same rate – within 2 weeks after receiving treatment. The procedure differs in that Jeuveau employs a proprietary technology known as “Hi-Pure,” which purifies the ingredients in the injection to improve the safety of the procedure.

Daxxify – Daxxify, as known as DAXI or daxibotulinumtoxinA is the newest of the neuromodulators to enter the market and boasts of a particular longevity. While all other neuromodulator competitors last for 3-4 months, Daxxify has been shown to last 6-9 months, which could revolutionize dynamic wrinkle treatment. The secret to Daxxify’s longevity is the use of a Peptide Exchange and the treatment is currently FDA approved to treat glabellar lines.

Can you use Dysport to treat crow’s feet?

While Botox is the only neuromodulator treatment that is specifically FDA approved to treat crow’s feet, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify can all be used in an off-label capacity to treat crow’s feet. Off-label simply means that while the treatment is not FDA approved for that specific purpose, it is still safe and effective when performed by an expert, board certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. When seeking an off-label treatment, be sure to consult an experienced injector in order to avoid any potential damage.

What other eye rejuvenation procedures can you combine with Botox?

Botox can be used in combination with a variety of rejuvenation procedures, including facials, dermal fillers such as Juvederm and Kybella, and CoolSculpting treatments. One very popular eye rejuvenation procedure is the injection of dermal fillers into the tear trough, or under eye area. Injecting Restylane or Belotero into the tear trough helps replace lost volume and treat under eye hollows, which are very aging, and can be combined with Botox injections during the same visit.

When it comes to treatments such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion, treatment plans are evaluated by Dr. Green on a case by case basis. Though lighter chemical peels are typically okay to pair with Botox, it may be best to schedule heavier peels and microdermabrasion treatments separately. Microneedling is also an extremely popular procedure to combine with Botox. Microneedling with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) helps to improve fine lines, texture, and tone around the skin, including the delicate skin around the eye area.

Laser treatments, like with the Clear + Brilliant or Fraxel Lasers, can also occur in tandem with Botox treatment, provided the laser site is separate from the injection site. The eMatrix Sublative RF laser has a special tip that is able to remove fine lines and improve the texture of the skin around the eye area. If the laser treatment coincides with the Botox injection site, Dr. Green will be able to evaluate whether the two procedures can occur simultaneously.

Can you combine Botox with Juvederm filler?

For crow’s feet, Botox is an effective treatment that can also be used alongside other procedures, such as dermal fillers, if there are other issues that an individual wishes to treat in tandem. One popular combination is Botox with Juvederm. In addition to this, forehead lines and forehead wrinkles can also be treated with Botox at the same time as treating the area around the eyes. Botox pairs well with Juvederm for rejuvenating eye treatments, as Botox can work to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet lines while Juvederm plumps the skin below the eye, reducing the appearance of dark circles that often deepen with age.

Male patient treated with Botox for Crows Feet

The combination of Botox and dermal fillers has been deemed a “liquid facelift” by many, as it helps to both relax muscles and enhance the natural collagen and elastin production of the skin cells, leading to fuller, more youthful skin.

What are the side effects from Botox?

Botox is a very safe and effective treatment with most patients experiencing only mild side effects after treatment. Some patients experience mild bruising or swelling at or near the injection site, though this uncommon with a trained injector. In less than 1% of patients, side effects have included muscle weakness, droopy eyelids or double vision, as well as allergic reactions, and these more dangerous side effects make it all the more crucial that a trained medical professional work with you for any cosmetic Botox treatment. If you are experiencing any serious side effects from Botox, seek medical attention immediately.

How much is Botox for crow’s feet?

The cost for Botox crow’s feet treatment is of course dependent on the needs and aesthetic goals of each individual patient. Generally speaking, Botox for crow’s feet ranges in price depending on the expertise of the treating physician versus a medspa or clinic. The cost also varies depending on where it is performed in the United States. Price can also depend on the number of units of Botox necessary to address the treatment area and whether you are pairing Botox treatment with other forms of treatment for anti-aging effects. After you have determined your treatment plan with Dr. Green, her office can provide you with a closer estimate of the total cost of treatment.

How long does Botox take to work on crow’s feet?

Botox is a fast-acting treatment with effects that can last up to 3-4 months. Generally, you will notice the effect of Botox in a few days, but it takes two full weeks to appreciate the full effect of your Botox treatment for crow’s feet. Once the effects of the treatment have worn off, Botox treatment can be repeated in order to maintain results.

Botox for crows feet – 2 weeks before and after

How often Botox for crow’s feet?

The effects of Botox are excellent at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for several months at a time. Botox for any area of cosmetic injection usually lasts between 3 and 4 months so many patients choose to have Botox injected three times a year for the best cosmetic results and to prevent dynamic wrinkles from forming.

How long does crow’s feet Botox last?

Botox is wonderful in that it is a temporary treatment that can be adjusted over time, but unfortunately that flexibility does mean that the positive effects of Botox are not permanent. The effects of Botox typically lasts 3-4 months, and recurring maintenance for many Botox treatments is common.

Does Botox treat under eye darkness?

Botox treats the dynamic wrinkles around the eye area. However, Botox injections will not improve the pigmentation or darkness under the eyes. Mesopeels or dermal fillers into the tear trough area will help to improve the discoloration visible in the delicate under eye area.

Will Botox injections fix crow’s feet permanently?

Alas, due to the temporary effects of Botox, Botox is unable to fix crow’s feet permanently. However, if Botox treatment is used for preventative measures, it can help to keep the appearance of crow’s feet from developing nearly entirely, almost permanently reducing the signs of aging with continued use.

Does crow’s feet Botox lift the eyebrows?

Botox for crow’s feet works to relax the orbicularis oculi muscle, which surrounds the eye. As the muscle relaxes, the dynamic wrinkles that form at the corners of the eyes smooth out, erasing the signs of creases. The orbicularis oculi muscle can also cause a downward pull on the brows, consequently, when the muscle is relaxed, the brow may no longer be pulled down leading to a lift in the brow. If an arching of the brow occurs as a result of the treatment and it is not to your liking, a touch up can be performed to even the brow.

Does crow’s feet Botox change eye shape?

Crow’s feet Botox is an excellent treatment for erasing dynamic wrinkles that form around the eyes. Dynamic wrinkles form around the eyes as a result of squinting, smiling, and laughing and once Botox is injected in the treatment area, these creases are smoothed away. Botox also keeps the muscle from contracting, meaning that it can work to prevent wrinkles from forming as well and allow for a more open look to the eyes.

How has social media made Botox injections even more popular?

From a single Google search, it’s clear: Botox injections are no longer a “Hollywood Secret” as celebrities like Cindy Crawford, Kelly Ripa and Vanessa Williams have all revealed in interviews that they have used Botox in order to maintain a natural but rejuvenated appearance. More recently, studies have investigated the relationship between social media and pressure to adhere to certain cosmetic “trends,” including pressure to try dermal fillers and Botox.

At the end of the day, most social media mavens and red carpet starlets agree: any cosmetic treatment should support you in your skincare journey, and help you to feel as confident as possible at any stage of life. Dr. Green is here to support you, from skincare routines to Botox procedures, ensuring that you love the way you look.

Is Botox good for crow’s feet?

Botox is considered to be the gold standard treatment when it comes to eliminating the appearance of dynamic fine lines and wrinkles, including the crow’s feet. Botox treatment has skyrocketed in popularity since being approved by the FDA for cosmetic purposes and is currently the number one non-invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States. Botox injections are safe, quick, painless, and produce consistently phenomenal cosmetic results without any recovery time involved. Patients can achieve pan-facial rejuvenation by opting to combine their Botox injections with other non-invasive cosmetic treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers, among others. If you are interested in Botox treatment for eye rejuvenation, Dr. Michele Green in New York City is here to help.

Dr. Green is an Allergan platinum injector and was among the first dermatologists in NYC to incorporate cosmetic Botox injections into the facial rejuvenation treatment plans of her patients. She is an expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing the best non-invasive cosmetic treatment options available, including Botox treatment. Consistently identified as one of New York’s best physicians by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors, Dr. Green works with each patient to create a customized treatment plan that is best suited to their unique needs and personal aesthetic goals. To get started with your facial rejuvenation treatments, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan by contacting us online, or calling 212-535-3088.