Cosmetic botulinum toxin-A (BoNT-A) injections may impact tear film dynamics and ocular surface health, with effects changing over time. Initially, tear production appears to increase, but this is followed by potential disruptions in tear stability and a rise in dry eye symptoms in the months after treatment, according to a study.
Researchers analyzed 80 participants, dividing them into groups based on time since injection—0-1 month, 1-3 months, and 3-6 months—alongside a control group with no treatment. Key assessments included tear production (Schirmer test), tear stability, and dry eye symptoms.
There was a temporary increase in tear production shortly after injection, with the 0-1 month group having the highest Schirmer scores. However, tear stability declined, and dry eye symptoms worsened in the 1-3 and 3-6 month groups compared to controls.
Reference
Bulut M, Reyhan AH. Short-Term Effects on Tear Film Following Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin Injections in Healthy Individuals. Cureus. 2025;17(1):e77688. doi: 10.7759/cureus.77688. PMID: 39974230; PMCID: PMC11836060.
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