How Many Units of Botox Do I Need?
July 26, 2022

How Many Units of Botox Do I Need?

If you’re considering getting a Botox injection, you may want to do a little research about what you can expect. An important fact that you might not have considered yet is how many units of Botox your procedure requires. At Northeastern Eye Institute, we want you to feel totally comfortable before going in for a Botox injection. Read on to learn more about how many units of Botox you may need for some common procedures.

What Happens When You Get Botox?

Botox is a liquid medication that is injected in strategically determined areas to help eliminate or minimize wrinkles or other skin appearance issues. It’s common to get Botox on your face — especially in the forehead, eyebrow, and eye area — as these locations are prone to wrinkles. While the specific amount of Botox you may receive per injection can depend on your needs, all Botox may wear off in time as your body breaks down the chemical solution. You may receive new injections every three to six months based on your doctor’s recommendation. 

How Do You Determine How Much Botox You’ll Need?

The best way to determine how much Botox you’ll need to reach your goals is by talking to your doctor. You may sign up for a consultation, at which point you can discuss your concerns. However, you may want to do a little research before your consultation so that you can show up prepared to articulate your needs. You can learn more about standard unit requirements for some popular Botox procedures, but remember that your unique needs can differ based on your health and preferences.

How Many Units of Botox Do You Need for Some Common Injections?

Some of the most common Botox injection locations include the forehead, eyebrows, and around the corners of your eyes. Patients may receive Botox in other areas, but you may experience the most effective results in these areas. Here are the unit requirements for each injection type to help you get a better idea of what your procedure may entail.

Forehead

Neurotoxins contained within the Botox injection can effectively prevent forehead lines and wrinkles, helping the area appear smooth and tight. When you go in for a forehead injection, this actually contains five main injection sites needed to offer complete coverage: two injection sites under the hairline, two above your temples, and one in the very center of the forehead. For a standard injection, the recommendation is four units per injection site, resulting in 20 total units. 

Depending on the individual’s needs and medical history, this number of injections can range anywhere from 10 to 50. As you begin your procedure, your doctor may first inject one or two units into each site to test your response. If all goes well, you can return in a few months to finish your dose. For maintenance, you may receive injection updates every three to four months, as is standard for many Botox procedures.

Eyebrows

Between your eyebrows, you may get wrinkles called frown lines. While Botox may not be able to get rid of existing wrinkles, it can help prevent any future wrinkles from forming. Like with the forehead, there are five injection spots you may use around the eyebrows. The line of injection areas can create a “V” shape, with the point beginning right between your eyes. Unlike with your forehead, the proper locations for these points can vary greatly based on your individual anatomy. Your doctor will help you pick the ideal start point before your injection.

Doctors recommend that each of the five injection spots receive 5 units of Botox, for a total of 25 units. The variation in this area tends to be anywhere from 20 to 50 units. As with any Botox injection, you may receive one or two units per site at first to test your response. You may also seek reinjection every three to four months.

Corner of Eyes

Although the corners of your eyes can often be a more sensitive area, they can also be a prime spot for wrinkles called crow’s feet. To strike a balance between fixing your concerns and remaining safe, your doctor may proceed with caution when determining your ideal Botox units. In general, though, you can expect six injection sites total: one above each eye, one below each eye, and two in the middle. 

On average, patients receive five injections per site: 30 total units. There is substantial variation in this number, though, with injection amounts ranging from 20 to 50 units. Like other injections, you may return for an injection every few months.

Is Botox Safe for Seniors?

You may be wondering if Botox is safe for users of all ages. While your unique journey with Botox can consider a wide range of factors, including your age, you may be happy to know that older people in good health can often receive Botox injections. 

As with any medical procedure, this choice will require an individualized assessment to make sure that you’re in good health. Your age may affect the number of units that your doctor chooses to inject, but you can always have a conversation about your needs before the procedure begins. Receiving Botox is a highly personal decision, and you should be able to choose whatever feels right and healthy for you. Look over our list of offers and specials today for any deals that can help you get closer to your Botox goals.

At Northeastern Eye Institute, we want you to have a positive experience no matter which Botox procedure you select. We also believe that knowing more about what your Botox injection may require can help you feel empowered to take your health decisions into your own hands. If you have any questions about Botox injections, you can always reach out to learn more about us today. One of our friendly and knowledgeable doctors can surely help you answer any questions and prepare you to get the Botox procedure you’ve been wanting.