Can Botox cause or aggravate bags under the eyes?

Dr. Irwin
August 4, 2013
The following question was submitted on 07/28/2013 at 23:44:16 -------------------------------------------------------------- Hi Dr. Irwin, I am 35 yrs old and I have been getting Botox around the crows feet for some time now. The last two times, I have had a bag/sac underneath both eyes right on the cheekbone when I smile. This is only visible when smiling. I'd like to understand why this has happened in the recent visits when it didn't happen the first few times. Also, what can the physician do to avoid this from happening again? I want to bring it up with the physician on my upcoming appointment but want to have a better understanding as to why and how to avoid this in the future. Thank you in advance for your response. Sincerely, DD

There is definitely a group of people, a minority though, who develop under eye (malar) bags or whose bags worsen. This is because the action of the muscles around the eyes also help to keep lymphatic fluid moving. In some people, that extra lymph fluid accumulates in the form of that malar bag.

The only treatment for this is to use less or no Botox. To make sure this is the problem in your case, try just letting the Botox wear off completely and see if the bags improve – you’ll have your answer. Also, of course, keeping your salt, sugar, flour and alcohol intake low and hydrating with plenty of water also helps!!

Dr. I

See Dr. Irwin’s article on Eye Issues.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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