Crow’s feet

Origin of crow's feet

Crow's feet form as a result of a complex interplay between muscle activity, skin structure, and aging. When we smile or squint, the skin around our eyes undergoes repetitive movements. These movements are caused by the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is connected to the thin skin around the eyes. Over time, these repeated muscle contractions can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, which we know as crow's feet.

In addition, aging plays a significant role in the development of crow's feet. As we age, we lose subcutaneous fat tissue and collagen, resulting in decreased skin elasticity and resilience. This leads to a loss of volume and firmness, which can cause crow's feet to become deeper and more prominent on the face.

How does a crow's feet treatment with Botox work?

The practitioner will ask you to squint a few times and will typically administer two to four small injections per side. Most people find it painless. The effective treatment usually takes less than two minutes. Treating crow's feet is considered one area/ zone of Botox .

The doctor begins by injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin with a fine needle. This Botox is injected directly into the muscles around the eyes. The Botox temporarily relaxes these muscles, reducing the activity that causes crow's feet. This calms the skin around the eyes and reduces the visibility of fine lines.

The entire treatment usually takes just a few minutes and is generally virtually painless. To reduce any discomfort, the skin can be cooled during the Botox treatment . This also helps reduce swelling and redness after the treatment.

The treatment is effective after about 5 days, and optimally effective after about 2 weeks. If this is not the case, please contact the clinic.

Step-by-step plan for a crow's feet treatment

What are the results of a treatment?

After a crow’s-feet treatment, you can expect results quickly.

The optimal result of the treatment is usually visible after about 2 weeks. During this time, the Botox begins to take effect, and the muscles around the eyes relax, reducing fine lines.

The results of the treatment generally remain visible for three to four months. During this period, you can enjoy smoother skin around the eyes and a reduction in crow’s feet.

After a few months, muscle activity will slowly return. This may mean that crow’s feet gradually reappear. To maintain long-lasting results, it may be necessary to repeat the treatment regularly.

Other popular treatments:
Frown line treatment
Forehead wrinkles
Eyebrow lift

Botox crow’s-feet costs

A crow’s-feet treatment with Botox costs an average of €143.34 in the Netherlands in 2025.
Read more: Botox rates

Crow’s-feet Botox prices 2025

Scientific basis of crow’s-feet treatment with Botox

In the treatment of crow’s feet with Botox, the neurotoxin temporarily blocks signal transmission between nerve and muscle by inhibiting SNAP-25. This relaxes the skin around the eyes, causing wrinkles to fade. Botox is biocompatible and is broken down locally. Clinical studies show high safety and effectiveness (Carruthers et al., Dermatol Surg, 2021).

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