Botox for Crows Feet

Facial lines can be a distressing indication of aging, appearing as early as the mid-twenties and influenced by genetics and sun exposure. Crow’s feet are often among the first signs of aging due to the thin skin around the eyes. These fine lines at the corners of the eyes develop over time from expressions such as smiling, squinting, and laughing. As time passes, the structural proteins collagen and elastin, which provide support, elasticity, and a youthful appearance, begin to diminish, leading to wrinkles. Botox treats crow’s feet by blocking nerve signals that trigger muscle contractions, preventing the formation of wrinkles. It is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments worldwide because it consistently produces impressive results in quick treatment sessions with no downtime.

As the gold standard for reducing dynamic fine lines, Botox effectively treats crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. Since its FDA approval for cosmetic use in 2002, Botox has gained immense popularity. More men and women than ever are seeking preventative Botox treatments, which are ideal for stopping fine lines from forming in the first place. To ensure excellent results and avoid unwanted side effects, it’s essential to always receive Botox from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green is recognized as one of the “Best Botox injectors in NYC.” The effects of Botox can enhance the regular use of anti-aging skincare and other non-invasive cosmetic treatments that provide long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation. In addition to offering what many refer to as the “best Botox injections in New York,” Dr. Green’s private dermatology office provides cutting-edge cosmetic treatments like dermal fillers, laser resurfacing, microneedling, and chemical peels.

If you want to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, Dr. Michele Green is here to help. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned leader in cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including Botox. Dr. Green is an Allergan Platinum injector and was among the first dermatologists in NYC to offer cosmetic Botox treatment. Regarding facial rejuvenation, Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, customizing each patient’s cosmetic treatment plan to address their specific concerns and achieve their ideal results. She is consistently recognized as one of New York’s best board-certified dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine for her dedication to her patients and expertise.

Before and after – Botox for crows feet

What are Botox Injections?

Botox Cosmetic is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A. This injectable treatment is indicated for both medical and cosmetic purposes and is considered the best option for reducing dynamic facial wrinkles. Some medical uses of Botox include managing muscle spasms and treating cervical dystonia, hyperhidrosis, and chronic migraines. Approved by the FDA in 2002 as a safe and effective cosmetic treatment, Botox has gained immense popularity due to its ability to deliver incredible, natural-looking results. It is regarded as the gold standard for diminishing dynamic facial lines and wrinkles. These fine lines develop over time as a result of repetitive facial expressions, such as squinting, smiling, laughing, and frowning. They are commonly found at the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet), on the forehead, and between the eyebrows (glabella). As a neuromodulator, Botox works by blocking nerve signals and limiting muscle contractions when injected into targeted facial muscles, effectively “freezing” them. The effects of Botox are temporary, usually lasting up to four months. Dynamic fine lines result from age-related loss of collagen and elastin, which diminishes skin elasticity and its ability to rebound. Fortunately, along with offering what’s known as the “best Botox injections in New York,” Dr. Green provides a variety of non-invasive cosmetic treatment options for complete facial rejuvenation.

How does Botox work to Treat Crow’s Feet?

Botox is regarded as the gold standard for treating dynamic wrinkles such as crow’s feet. Crow’s feet are the fine lines at the corners of your eyes that become more pronounced with facial expressions like smiling, laughing, and squinting. Often, crow’s feet are among the earliest signs of aging due to the delicate skin in the eye area. Depending on genetics, history of sun exposure, and the intensity and frequency of orbicularis oculi muscle contractions, patients may notice crow’s feet as early as their mid-twenties or early thirties. Botox, when injected into the orbicularis oculi (eye) muscles, restricts muscle contractions, ultimately softening the appearance of crow’s feet. Unlike invasive plastic surgery procedures, the quick and easy process of receiving Botox injections for crow’s feet with Dr. Green can be completed within minutes and requires no downtime. Due to Botox’s ability to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it can be used not only to reduce the signs of aging as they emerge but also as a preventive measure, stopping wrinkles from developing before they become etched into the skin. Whether you’re aiming to preserve your perfect smile by preventing crow’s feet from forming or to minimize the appearance of existing fine lines around your eyes, Botox is a safe and effective cosmetic treatment option.

How do Botox Injections Work?

Botulinum toxin type A, the primary ingredient in Botox injectable treatments, is derived from the bacterium that causes botulism. When purified and administered in the correct dosage, botulinum toxin type A effectively addresses a range of medical and cosmetic concerns. In cosmetic uses, Botox is injected into specific facial muscles that contribute to wrinkles, such as crow’s feet around the eyes and frown lines between the brows.

The neurotoxin in botulinum toxin operates at the neuromuscular junction, inhibiting nerve signals. The Botox injections essentially “freeze” the muscles, preventing them from contracting. This inability to fold the skin leads to a reduction in wrinkles. When Botox is injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle at the outer corner of the eye, the treatment blocks nerve signals to the injection site, which relaxes the muscle, smooths the skin, and eliminates crow’s feet. By limiting muscle contractions, the skin avoids forming associated dynamic wrinkles, resulting in smooth, younger-looking skin.

Where is Botox injected for crow’s feet?

The crow’s feet, also known as lateral canthal lines, laugh lines, or smile lines, appear at the corners of the eyes due to repeated facial expressions such as smiling or squinting. These lines develop when the orbicularis oculi muscle contracts, folding the skin around the eyes. To ensure you receive precise injections, it is crucial to consult an expert in Botox injections, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green typically uses an ultra-fine needle to inject a small amount of Botox into the facial muscle surrounding the eye. This injection blocks nerve signals to the facial muscles that cause crow’s feet, relaxing those small muscles and reducing contractions in the treatment area, resulting in smooth, youthful skin around the eyes. However, if too much Botox is administered or injected improperly, unwanted side effects like bruising or temporary facial paralysis may occur. Therefore, it is essential to receive Botox treatments from an experienced injector to achieve optimal cosmetic results and minimize the risk of adverse outcomes effects.

Woman treated with Botox for crows feet

Who is a good candidate for Botox injections for crow’s feet?

The ideal candidate for Botox is a patient over the age of 21 who is in good physical health. They may be beginning to form dynamic wrinkles at the crow’s feet or may already have deeper wrinkles present. Botox can help prevent new lines from forming and soften existing wrinkles. Patients are not suitable candidates if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety of Botox use has not been adequately studied. Additionally, individuals should avoid Botox injections if they have a history of allergic reactions to any ingredients in Botox or other botulinum toxins, such as Dysport, Xeomin, or Myobloc. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will review your medical history before administering Botox for the crow’s feet.

How many units of Botox for crow’s feet?

One of the most significant advantages of Botox treatment is its customizability. Everyone has unique facial anatomy, specific concerns, and personal aesthetic goals. An expert injector like Dr. Green in NYC will adjust the units of Botox used based on the differences in the size and strength of various facial muscles, the targeted treatment area, and the severity of the facial lines. Over time, adjustments can be made to your dosage as needed, which is why collaborating with an expert injector is crucial. However, some standard unit measures are commonly referenced among patients as a guide. For crow’s feet, the typical range is 5 to 15 units of Botox per side. When you consult with Dr. Green for your crow’s feet treatment, she will assess your muscles to determine how many units of Botox you need to achieve your ideal aesthetic results.

What is the process of having Botox treatment for crow’s feet treatment?

Botox for crow’s feet is a simple, painless procedure that can be completed in Dr. Green’s office in as little as 10 minutes. The first step in getting Botox is to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. During your consultation, Dr. Green will gather a thorough medical history, assess the treatment area, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the cosmetic treatment or series of treatments that will work best for you. Medical photographs may be taken at this time to track the progress of future treatments. Your Botox injections may be performed on the day of your initial consultation or scheduled for a later date, depending on the time available and your personal preference. Botox injections are well-tolerated, and most patients do not require any special preparation.

To prepare for your Botox treatment, we recommend avoiding any blood thinners for two weeks leading up to the procedure to reduce the risk of bruising at the injection sites. On the day of the treatment, the area will be cleaned and prepped. Dr. Green will mark the injection sites before skillfully injecting the Botox into the orbicularis oculi muscles on both sides of the face. An ice pack will be applied to the treatment area immediately after the procedure to minimize any potential swelling. It is important to remain upright for four hours after your Botox injections and to avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours. The full effects of the Botox treatment should become noticeable within two weeks, giving you a rejuvenated, relaxed appearance. Dr. Green typically advises her patients to return after two weeks to assess the results and perform any necessary touch-ups.

What are the side effects of Botox injections?

Botox is a safe and effective treatment, with most patients experiencing only mild side effects afterward. The most common side effect is swelling or bruising at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own within a few days. In less than 1% of cases, rare but serious side effects may include muscle weakness, droopy eyelids, double vision, or allergic reactions. These more serious side effects underscore the importance of having a trained medical professional administer any cosmetic Botox treatment. If you experience any severe side effects from Botox, seek immediate medical attention. It is essential to have your Botox injections done by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green for safe and effective treatment. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience as a master injector of Botox and takes pride in not over-injecting, ensuring a beautiful and natural-looking appearance with minimal side effects effects.

How long will Botox results last for crow’s feet?

Botox is an effective yet temporary cosmetic procedure that freezes targeted muscles to reduce and prevent dynamic wrinkles. While some may see results within a few days of treatment, full effects become visible after two weeks. Dr. Green always encourages her patients to return to the office at that time to evaluate the treatment area and ensure the injections are working effectively. Once the effects of the treatment have faded, Botox can be administered again every three to four months to maintain optimal results.

Common FAQs Regarding Botox injections for crow’s feet:

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

When patients inquire about the number of units of Botox needed for crow’s feet and forehead lines, the answer is that it varies. Several factors influence the required number of Botox units, including the size of the treatment area, muscle strength, and the patient’s aesthetic goals. For instance, some individuals prefer to completely freeze their facial muscles, while others wish to retain some movement, which necessitates different quantities of units. When addressing crow’s feet, Dr. Green recommends 5 to 15 units of Botox per eye and 10 to 50 units for the forehead. Dr. Green is renowned for her less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation and Botox treatment, providing patients with access to natural-looking results. She will examine the treatment area and then determine the optimal number of Botox units to achieve the desired aesthetic results.

Will Botox help crow’s feet?

Yes, Botox is a highly effective treatment option for crow’s feet, which are dynamic wrinkles that form due to repeated contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscle. Over time, this repeated contraction- occurring when you squint, smile, or laugh- causes wrinkles that seem etched into the skin’s surface. When Botox is injected into the muscle responsible for these contractions, it relaxes the muscle, preventing new wrinkles from forming and allowing existing wrinkles to smooth out and disappear. By inhibiting the contraction of the orbicularis oculi muscles, the skin remains smooth, and dynamic wrinkles do not appear form.

How much Botox is needed for crow’s feet?

The exact number of Botox units required to treat crow’s feet effectively varies based on each patient’s specific needs. To eliminate the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, Dr. Green will assess the anatomy of the eye area and the severity of the facial lines to determine the necessary number of Botox units. Every individual presents with unique skin concerns, and the amount of Botox sufficient for one patient may be inadequate or excessive for another. The general range needed to treat crow’s feet is 5 to 15 units per side. It is crucial to consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, like Dr. Green, who has the expertise and experience to tailor your Botox injection treatment to help you achieve your desired, natural-looking cosmetic results.

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

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are variations of botulinum toxin type A treatments used for the cosmetic treatment of dynamic wrinkles. The three neurotoxins differ only in the unique proteins attached to the botulinum toxin molecule. Each injectable treatment offers a distinct advantage and is associated with different treatment areas for which they are FDA-approved to address wrinkles. However, they are often used “off-label” by trained dermatologists to reduce fine lines and wrinkles across the face. When applied to treat crow’s feet, each of these neurotoxins lasts for three to four months.

Dysport – While Botox injections consist of onabotulinumtoxinA, Dysport is made of abobotulinumtoxinA and is FDA-approved specifically to treat glabellar lines, or the “11 wrinkles” that form 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 effect. However, the molecules that comprise Dysport are smaller than those of Botox, allowing for a quicker onset of treatment, with some patients noticing the full results within one week.

Xeomin – Xeomin contains the active ingredient incobotulinumtoxinA and, like Botox, is FDA-approved for treating frown lines as well as several medical conditions. Xeomin is a unique neuromodulator that lacks accessory proteins; it is botulinum toxin in its pure form and can, therefore, serve as an excellent treatment option for those who have developed resistance to Botox or Dysport, which can occur over time with regular use of either treatment. Individuals who develop resistance to Botox or Dysport produce antibodies against the accessory proteins linked to the toxin. Resistance to Botox results in less effective treatment with a shorter duration.

How much does Botox cost for crow’s feet?

Many patients ask, “How much does Botox cost for crow’s feet?” The answer is that the price of Botox treatment for crow’s feet depends on several factors, including geographical location and the injector’s experience. Treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, may be more expensive than receiving treatment from a nurse injector at a Medspa; however, it is always advisable to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who has the expertise to help avoid unwanted side effects and ensure optimal cosmetic results. Dr. Green is an internationally recognized board-certified dermatologist with over twenty-five years of experience in cosmetic dermatology. Once you establish your treatment plan with Dr. Green, her office can provide you with a more accurate estimate of the total treatment cost.

How long does Botox last on crow’s feet?

One advantage of Botox is that it offers a temporary cosmetic treatment that can be tailored to meet patients’ evolving needs over time. Unfortunately, this flexibility means that the benefits of Botox are not everlasting. The effects generally last for three to four months, and most patients receive treatments three to four times a year to maintain optimal results. When you consult with Dr. Green about your crow’s feet Botox, she will collaborate with you to develop a treatment schedule for consistently stunning outcomes results.

Male patient treated with Botox for Crows Feet

Does crow’s feet Botox change eye shape?

No, Botox cannot change the shape of your eyes. It is an injectable treatment designed to reduce the appearance of dynamic fine lines, including crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes. Dynamic wrinkles form around the eyes due to squinting, smiling, and laughing. Once Botox is injected into the treatment area, these creases are smoothed away. Side effects such as swelling and bruising typically resolve on their own shortly after treatment, with the final effects of Botox injections becoming visible two weeks after injection. Additionally, Botox prevents the eyes from wrinkling while squinting, inhibiting the formation of wrinkles and giving a more open appearance. It may temporarily enhance the look of your eyes by altering the ratio of facial muscle contraction.

Does Botox help crow’s feet?

The answer is yes! Botox is the gold standard for reducing dynamic fine lines and wrinkles, including crow’s feet. The term ‘crow’s feet’ refers to the fine lines at the corners of the eyes that develop over time due to facial expressions such as smiling, laughing, squinting, and frowning. Botox received FDA approval to treat crow’s feet in 2013 and is regularly used to help patients achieve a more youthful appearance. Botox is highly regarded in cosmetic dermatology for its ability to consistently deliver impressive rejuvenation results through a quick, painless procedure with no downtime. If you wish to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and rejuvenate the eye area with non-invasive cosmetic procedures, Dr. Green in NYC is here to assist you.

What helps crow’s feet without Botox?

Some patients who are not interested in Botox injections ask, “How to get rid of crow’s feet without Botox?” Several cosmetic treatments can improve the appearance of crow’s feet, including laser treatments, chemical peels, and targeted skincare products.

The Fraxel Dual laser is a skin resurfacing treatment that enhances the appearance of crow’s feet. Dr. Green often refers to the Fraxel laser as the ‘magic eraser’ because of its unique ability to address a wide range of skin concerns. The Fraxel Dual laser treatment available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office operates at two distinct wavelengths, 1550 nm and 1927 nm, allowing it to tackle skin issues such as fine lines, enlarged pores, acne scars, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks. As a non-ablative laser treatment, Fraxel stimulates collagen production in the dermal layers of the skin to reduce wrinkles while preserving the outermost layers, significantly minimizing associated downtime.

The Clear + Brilliant laser treatment effectively addresses various skin concerns without downtime or discomfort. This laser method creates thousands of microscopic wounds in the skin in a controlled manner, encouraging the natural wound-healing process and stimulating collagen production. Collagen, a vital skin protein, provides a firm foundation and helps maintain a smooth texture. The Clear + Brilliant laser is safe for all skin types and tones. Consequently, Clear + Brilliant laser treatment leads to healthier, more radiant skin that lasts.

The trichloroacetic (TCA) peel is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures offered at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office. The peel exfoliates the top layer of skin and the immediate underlying layers. The amount of downtime required after a TCA chemical peel can vary depending on the strength used, ranging from one day of downtime for a light peel to 14 days for a deeper peel. TCA peels are ideal for improving skin tone and texture and can target concerns such as fine lines, acne scars, active acne, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, and other signs of aging.

Dr. Green can also create a customized skincare regimen using retinol to address fine lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet. To further benefit her patients, Dr. Green developed her proprietary skincare line, MGSKINLABS INC., which includes the Essential Antioxidant Infusion retinol topical. The Essential Antioxidant Infusion is specially formulated to boost collagen production while you sleep. It provides a concentrated dose of vitamins A, C, E and other nutrients to exfoliate, renew, and replenish your skin overnight. Achieve a healthier, more youthful appearance with diminished visible lines and wrinkles, improved skin elasticity, and enhanced skin texture. Patients should ensure proper sun protection, as retinol heightens the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

While these treatments can enhance the appearance of crow’s feet, they cannot prevent them from forming. Only Botox can prevent the formation of crow’s feet. If you are interested in learning more about other cosmetic procedures available to treat fine lines and wrinkles, it is essential to consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Dr. Green will conduct a physical evaluation and gather a complete medical history before developing a treatment plan that safely and effectively addresses your cosmetic skin care concerns.

What happens if Botox is too close to the eyes for crow’s feet?

Botox for crow’s feet is injected into the lateral canthal muscles around the corners of the eyes. If an unqualified or inexperienced injector performs Botox injections, they may inject too close to the eyes. When Botox is injected too near the eyes, there is a risk that the neuromodulator could spread to surrounding muscles, causing eyelid drooping or other vision problems. To minimize the risks of adverse effects, it is always recommended to consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as a board-certified dermatologist. When you consult Dr. Green about your crow’s feet, she will evaluate your facial anatomy before skillfully performing the injections.

How do I get started with Botox treatment today?

Botox is considered the gold standard for eliminating the appearance of dynamic fine lines and wrinkles, including crow’s feet. Since gaining FDA approval for cosmetic rejuvenation in 2002, Botox treatment has surged in popularity and is now the leading non-invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States. Botox injections are safe, quick, and painless, delivering consistently impressive cosmetic results without downtime. Patients can achieve comprehensive facial rejuvenation by combining Botox injections with non-invasive treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, microneedling, and dermal fillers. Whether you’re interested in Botox to reduce existing fine lines or to prevent their formation with preventative Botox, Dr. Michele Green in New York City is ready to assist you.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing top non-invasive cosmetic treatments, including Botox, to some of the world’s most discerning individuals. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in NYC to integrate cosmetic Botox injections into her practice, and she is recognized as an Allergan Platinum injector. She is consistently celebrated as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times for her dedication to patients and her expertise. In facial rejuvenation, Dr. Green adopts a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to address their specific skin concerns and unique aesthetic goals. To learn more about the benefits of Botox and begin your journey into facial rejuvenation, 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.