Those little lines that fan out from the corners of your eyes—also known as lateral canthal lines—are often called crow’s feet, and they’re one of the most common signs of aging.
Crow’s feet can sometimes make you look older than you feel, but fortunately, there are plenty of ways to treat them. Botox is one popular and effective option for reducing the appearance of crow’s feet. In fact, it’s FDA-approved for treating facial lines and wrinkles.
This article will take a closer look at crow’s feet, how Botox can help, and what other treatment options are available. You’ll also see some real-life examples of crow’s feet before and after treatment.
What are crow’s feet?
Crow’s feet are the wrinkles that fan out from the corners of your eyes. The skin around our eyes is thinner than anywhere else on our face, and as we age, it loses collagen and elasticity. This means it doesn’t bounce back as well from daily wear and tear, causing those lines to deepen.
Certain things can speed up the process, too. Smoking, squinting in the sun, and even staring at screens for long periods can cause crow’s feet to appear earlier in life.
It’s helpful to know that there are two types of wrinkles:
- Dynamic wrinkles: These are caused by muscle movement, like smiling or squinting.
- Static wrinkles: These are visible even when your face is relaxed.
How Botox Works for Crow’s Feet
Botox is a popular treatment for crow’s feet. Here’s how it works.
The Science Behind Botox
Botox is made of botulinum toxin type A. Once it’s injected, it blocks the nerve signals that tell your muscles to contract.
By disrupting those signals around your eyes, Botox minimizes the muscular activity that causes crow’s feet to form and deepen.
Botox vs. Dermal Fillers
It’s important to understand the difference between Botox and fillers.
Dermal fillers add volume to the face, but Botox is a neuromodulator, meaning it temporarily relaxes the muscles. This prevents the repetitive folding of skin that causes etched-in lines.
Botox is best for dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by muscle movements. Fillers are often better for static wrinkles, which are visible even when your face is relaxed.
What to expect from Botox for crow’s feet
If you’re considering Botox for crow’s feet, here’s what the process looks like:
- Consultation: We’ll start with a comprehensive consultation, where we’ll talk about your goals and expectations. Here at SDBotox, we want to understand your unique facial structure and how it moves so we can deliver results that you’ll love.
- Injection: Next, we’ll carefully inject Botox into the muscles around your eyes that cause crow’s feet.
- Results: You should start seeing results within a few days.
- Longevity: Botox typically lasts for three to six months, keeping your skin smooth and youthful-looking.
Before and After: Real Results with Botox
What kind of changes can you expect after Botox treatment? In the “after” photos, you’ll likely see a visible softening or near elimination of the lines around the eyes. The skin will appear smoother, and the area will look more refreshed. These are the kinds of results that could be achievable for you, too, with noticeable improvements within about two weeks.
Below is a before-and-after image from a client of SDBotox who received Botox injections for crow’s feet.
Here’s what one patient had to say about her experience:
“Dr. Maia is the best – as a first timer for Botox she made me feel so comfortable…” – E.G.
Many patients appreciate the expertise and comfort level they experience with a skilled injector, as well as the natural-looking results they can achieve with Botox.
Is Botox safe?
Botox is generally considered safe, and the main ingredient—botulinum toxin type A—has been studied extensively. Regulatory agencies around the world, including the FDA, have approved it for treating crow’s feet and other facial lines.
The science behind Botox is strong, with many studies confirming that it works and that it’s safe.
Like any medical treatment, Botox can cause side effects. But serious side effects are rare and usually related to the injection itself rather than the Botox. You might have some temporary bruising or swelling where you got the shot, but that usually clears up quickly.
Other ways to treat crow’s feet
Botox isn’t the only way to soften the look of crow’s feet. You can also consider:
- Dermal fillers
- Laser treatments for skin texture
- Topical creams for the early signs of aging
Botox vs. alternative treatments
The best treatment for you depends on the type of wrinkles you have and how long you want the results to last. Other treatments have pros and cons, too.
At clinics like SDBotox, you can have a consultation to help you decide on the treatment that’s best for you and your individual goals.
How much does Botox for crow’s feet cost?
The price of Botox depends on a few things. The most important factor is the number of units you’ll need, which varies depending on how large an area you’re treating and how deep your wrinkles are.
On average, one unit of Botox costs around $13. However, the only way to get an accurate quote is to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, a provider will assess your face, ask about your goals, and create a treatment plan specific to you.
Choosing the Right Clinic and Practitioner
If you’re considering any of these crow’s feet treatments, it’s important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner. The success of any treatment depends not only on the treatment itself, but also on the expertise and care of the person providing it.
Look for board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons. Make sure they offer a thorough consultation. Our specialists can provide the information you need to move forward with confidence.
Key Takeaways
As you’ve seen, Botox is an effective treatment for crow’s feet. But before you book an appointment, be sure to learn as much as you can about the procedure and talk with a qualified professional.
When done right, Botox can help you feel more confident in your appearance.