From the Research
Botulinum toxin is a highly effective treatment for crow's feet, with a recommended dose of 12 units per side, as evidenced by the study published in 2005 1. The treatment of crow's feet with botulinum toxin has been extensively studied, with various formulations and dosing regimens evaluated.
- The most commonly used formulations include Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA), Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA), and Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA).
- Typical dosing ranges from 10-15 units of Botox (or equivalent) per side, injected in 3-5 small amounts around the lateral orbital rim.
- The procedure takes only minutes to perform, with results appearing within 3-7 days and lasting approximately 3-4 months.
- Side effects are generally mild and temporary, including possible bruising, asymmetry, or eyelid drooping if injected incorrectly.
- Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the orbicularis oculi muscles that cause these wrinkles, resulting in smoother skin appearance when expressing.
- The treatment is most effective for dynamic wrinkles (those that appear with facial movement) rather than static lines that are present at rest, though repeated treatments may gradually improve even static lines.
- For optimal results, treatments should be repeated before the full effect wears off, typically every 3-4 months, as supported by the study published in 2009 2 and 2011 3.
- A more recent study published in 2015 4 highlights the importance of individualizing dosage based on patient anatomy, muscle mass, and desired outcome.
- Additionally, a study from 2004 5 demonstrated the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin A in treating crow's feet wrinkles, with a clear improvement shown at 6 months.