Introduction

The eyes are often the first area to show fatigue and aging. While traditional Botox® targets forehead and crow’s-feet lines, a newer micro-technique — “Jelly Roll Botox” — focuses on the tiny bulge beneath the lower lashes that appears when smiling.

This subtle, localized injection relaxes the orbicularis oculi muscle, smoothing the roll without flattening your natural expression. In skilled hands, it’s a gentle way to refresh tired eyes without surgery.

To learn the anatomy and advanced periorbital techniques behind this treatment, explore Empire On-Demand.

What Is a “Jelly Roll”?

Snippet: The “jelly roll” refers to the soft under-eye bulge that appears during smiling or squinting due to muscle contraction.

This area — distinct from under-eye fat pads — forms when the pre-tarsal portion of the orbicularis oculi contracts. Over time, repeated motion, sun damage, and volume loss make the roll more pronounced, creating fine wrinkles and a puffy look even at rest.

“Jelly Roll Botox” gently relaxes this muscle, reducing dynamic wrinkles while maintaining a natural smile.

How Jelly Roll Botox Works

Snippet: Microdoses of botulinum toxin are injected just beneath the lash line to soften muscle contraction and smooth fine lines.

A very small amount of toxin (typically 1–3 units per side) is injected into the pre-tarsal orbicularis oculi. The goal is precision, not paralysis — enough to reduce tightness and wrinkles without changing eye shape or smile dynamics.

Mechanism of action:

1. Blocks acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions.

2. Temporarily weakens targeted fibers of the orbicularis oculi.

3. Smooths wrinkles and softens the lower lid roll for 8–12 weeks.

When performed correctly, results are delicate, symmetrical, and expressive — never “frozen.”

Ideal Candidates

Snippet: Jelly Roll Botox works best for patients with dynamic under-eye wrinkles rather than skin laxity or fat herniation.

Best suited for:

• Mild to moderate “smile lines” or puffiness directly beneath the lower lashes.

• Younger patients showing early muscle-induced creasing.

• Individuals seeking a refreshed look without filler or surgery.

Not ideal for:

• Significant under-eye bags or skin laxity (these require filler, energy-based tightening, or blepharoplasty).

• Very thin skin prone to diffusion-related complications.

For anatomical assessment and periorbital safety mapping, injectors can study Master Eyes Injection Training.

Procedure Overview

1. Assessment: Evaluate under-eye movement during smiling.

2. Cleansing: Prepare the area with antiseptic.

3. Injection: Use a 30–32G needle to deliver 1–3 units of Botox per side approximately 2–3 mm below the lash line.

4. Post-Treatment: Avoid lying down or rubbing the area for 4–6 hours.

The treatment takes 5–10 minutes with minimal discomfort and no downtime.

Results and Longevity

• Onset: 3–5 days post-injection

• Peak effect: 7–10 days

• Duration: 2–3 months

Results include:

• Smoother under-eye texture

• Reduced fine lines when smiling

• Subtly brighter and more open eyes

The short duration allows easy customization — ideal for new patients or those wanting a “trial” before longer-term use.

Safety and Side Effects

Snippet: Proper injection depth and dosing are crucial to avoid diffusion or eyelid weakness.

Potential, though uncommon, side effects include:

• Temporary bruising or swelling

• Mild asymmetry if dosing is uneven

• Eyelid droop or under-eye hollowing (rare; due to overcorrection or diffusion)

Training in periorbital muscle anatomy is essential to prevent complications. Safety protocols and live demonstrations are covered in Advanced Botox & Dermal Filler Training — Level II.

Combining Jelly Roll Botox with Other Treatments

This micro-technique pairs beautifully with:

• Tear trough filler for hollow correction

• Exosome or PRP infusions to enhance under-eye skin health

• RF microneedling to firm skin texture

Combination therapy creates smoother, tighter, and brighter under-eye results than any single modality alone.

Providers looking to integrate regenerative adjuncts like PRP or exosomes can study Harnessing the Power of Exosomes, Lasers, and PDO Threads.

Clinical Takeaway

Jelly Roll Botox is a subtle, high-precision treatment that delivers natural, refreshed eyes without surgery. By selectively relaxing the pre-tarsal orbicularis oculi, injectors can erase fine lines while preserving full smile dynamics — an elegant balance between science and artistry.

This technique exemplifies the trend toward micro-focused rejuvenation, where minimal intervention yields maximum refinement.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between Jelly Roll Botox and traditional Botox?
   Jelly Roll Botox targets the under-eye muscle only, not the crow’s feet or forehead.

2. How long do results last?
   About 2–3 months, shorter than standard Botox areas due to constant eye movement.

3. Can I combine it with filler?
   Yes — filler addresses volume, while Botox treats muscle activity.

4. Is it painful?
   Mild stinging for a few seconds; numbing cream can be applied.

5. When can I wear makeup?
   After 24 hours. Avoid rubbing or applying pressure on the area.

6. Can it fix under-eye bags?
   No, it’s best for dynamic lines, not fat herniation or sagging.

7. How soon will I see results?
   Usually within 3–5 days, with full effect at 10 days.

8. Can it change my eye shape?
   Not when done correctly. Overdosing can slightly drop the lower lid.

9. Who should avoid this treatment?
   Those with neuromuscular disorders or active infections near the eyes.

10. How often should treatments be repeated?
    Every 10–12 weeks for maintenance of smooth, natural results.

References

• Fabi SG, et al. “Microinjection Techniques for Periorbital Botox Applications.” Dermatol Surg. 2023.

• Carruthers J, et al. “Advancements in Periocular Botulinum Toxin Use.” Aesthet Surg J. 2021.

• Gold MH. “Precision Botox Techniques for the Lower Eyelid.” J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024.

• American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. “Botulinum Toxin Injection Safety.” https://www.asds.net/

• DeLorenzi C. “Facial Anatomy and Neuromodulator Safety Zones.” Plast Reconstr Surg. 2020.