If your under-eye area appears too hollow, expertly applied filler under the eyes can offer a temporary fix. But what if your under-eye issue is the opposite, with pockets of fullness emerging under the eyes every time you smile? Enter “Jelly Rolls,” slight bulges of muscle that can surface under the eyes during smiles or squints. If this is the concern, experts advise against filler and in some cases recommend “Jelly Roll Botox,” or neurotoxin injections as the preferred temporary treatment.
What is “Jelly Roll Botox?”
The term “Jelly Roll” is used to describe the appearance of excess skin or bulges under the lower eyelid, which can create a puffy or rolled effect. This can be caused by various factors, including genetics, age-related skin changes, fat distribution and loss of elasticity.
Phoenix, AZ dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal says, “’Jelly Roll Botox’ relaxes the orbicularis oculi under-eye muscle that bulges in some people when they smile. It can help soften the appearance of wrinkling under the eyes as well.” Dr. Lal tells us this technique involves injecting neurotoxin into the portion of the eyelid muscle located immediately under the lash line of the lower eyelid.
“We typically target the outer portion when treating crow’s feet, but it’s important to note that the portion below your lower lashes can also contract, creating the ‘smize,’ ‘squinching,’ or bunching under the eye,” explains Campbell, CA dermatologist Amelia K. Hausauer, MD. “In the right patient, this can be a beautiful option as it causes the muscle to lay flat and opens the eye more. Additionally, because the toxin is injected very superficially, you may notice some improvement in skin quality, resulting in fewer tiny crinkles.”
Because the area is so delicate, going to the right injector is imperative says New York oculoplastic surgeon Irene Gladstein, MD. “We are placing toxin in the portion of the eyelid muscle located immediately under the lash line of the lower eyelid,” she cautions. “This should only be done by advanced injectors with extensive knowledge of eyelid anatomy.”
Jelly Rolls vs. Under-Eye Fat Bags: What’s the Difference?
Weakening the overactive orbicularis oculi muscle leads to a smoother appearance. If you’re wondering whether you have a “Jelly Roll” or fat pads under your eyes, Boca Raton, FL, oculoplastic surgeon Steven Fagien, MD offers a clear distinction. “The ‘Jelly Roll’ is a strip of thickening just underneath the lashes. Orbital fat is much lower towards the orbital rim where the bone is.”
Benefits and Risks of “Jelly Roll Botox”
The treatment promises a smoother lower eyelid and the flattening of the protruding portion of the orbicularis oculi muscle. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks to consider. Dr. Lal warns, “The biggest risk is dry eye. Because we treat the muscle that helps close the eye, it can lead to eyelid eversion and that can cause a dry eye sensation. It can also lead to a droopy lower eyelid and asymmetry if too much toxin is placed in this location.”
Dr. Gladstein echoes the importance of expertise. “The most unpleasant risk is overdosing, which may lead to a droopy lower eyelid. This is why it’s so important that you choose a qualified injector.”
How Long Before You See Results?
According to our experts, results are visible in about three to seven days. The effects generally last for approximately three to four months. However, irresponses can vary based on factors such as metabolism, muscle activity and the specific treatment plan. It’s important to note that repeated injections are usually needed to maintain results.
