Hi, I’m Chad Hartmann, a board-certified dermatologist with U.S. Dermatology Partners and today I want to help answer the question “Can Botox cause droopy eyelids? “
Botox can cause droopy eyelids but fortunately, when it's administered properly by someone who's experienced and familiar with facial anatomy, that is an extremely rare side effect.
Botox can cause droopy eyelids by one of two mechanisms.
The reason we use Botox to treat wrinkles is because it relaxes the muscles that cause those lines. If Botox is administered too close to one of the muscles that raise the eyelids or if it diffuses into this area it can lead to drooping of the eyelids.
Fortunately, this normally only lasts one to two weeks and it can be treated with the use of eye drops that activate other muscles that help to elevate the eyelid. The other mechanism by which Botox can lead to droopy eyelids is if the muscles of the forehead are relaxed too much. When muscles move they help to pump out extra fluid from these tissues via the lymphatic system. If these are relaxed then that fluid can accumulate and pull into the upper eyelids leading to a puffy appearance to the eyelids.
Typically, these patients will complain of droopy eyelids that get better throughout the day. Again, the best way to avoid droopy eyelids from Botox is to have it administered by someone who's experienced and familiar with the facial anatomy. At U.S. Dermatology Partners we have a multitude of board-certified dermatologists, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who can help you look your best.