Botox Cost per Area : Forehead, Crow’s Feet & Frown Lines — Units, Pricing & How to Save

 

What “per area” really means

When clinics quote Botox, you’ll see three models: per unit, per area, and hybrid bundles. Per unit means you pay for every unit injected—transparent but it requires an estimate of how many units your facial muscles will likely need. Per area looks simpler (one flat price for the forehead, glabella, or crow’s feet), but the underlying unit count still matters because that’s what determines result quality and durability. Hybrid bundles usually pair the glabella with the forehead because treating the forehead without balancing the corrugator muscles can cause brow heaviness. For a realistic budget, ask clinics to show both the per-unit price and the expected unit range for your anatomy.

Typical unit ranges by area (why they vary)

Every face is unique. Genetics, muscle strength, and animation habits change dosing. Strong frowners need more glabellar units to suppress “11” lines; expressive foreheads need careful balancing to avoid brow drop.

• Glabella (frown lines): ~15–25 units; very strong corrugators may need more.

• Forehead (horizontal lines): ~8–20 units, usually paired with glabella to maintain brow position.

• Crow’s feet (lateral canthus): ~6–12 units per side depending on smile strength.

• Bunny lines, DAO, chin dimpling, lip flip: micro-doses tailored to proportion; experience matters.

What actually drives your quote

Unit price is the obvious driver, but credentials, geographic market, review policy, and brand choice all influence cost. Technique and plan matter—balanced dosing can reduce revision visits.

Compare clinics like a pro

1. Get the **per-unit price** and the expected **unit range** for your areas.

2. Ask if a **two-week review** is included and whether small adjustments are free.

3. Confirm **who injects you**, their training, and supervision.

4. Ensure **standardized photos** are used to track results.

5. Check **loyalty programs** or rebates available.

Durability & scheduling

Onset is typically 3–7 days; peak at two weeks. Most people repeat every 3–4 months. Over time, lines soften and some need fewer units as muscles stay relaxed.

Safety & candidacy

These are prescription medicines. Screening should cover medical history and goals. Risks include bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and rare ptosis. Choose medical settings and avoid unregulated products.

Smart ways to save

• Join manufacturer loyalty programs and track seasonal rebates.

• Choose transparent **per-unit** clinics or per-area options with clear unit caps.

• Book with senior oversight even if a junior injector treats you.

• Use consistent photos to fine-tune dosing rather than chasing every micro-line.

FAQ

• Is per-area pricing bad? Not inherently—ensure a unit cap and revision policy.

• Can I do forehead without glabella? Usually not; unbalanced pulls can drop brows.

• Can I work out? Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours after treatment.

Sources

• American Academy of Dermatology — Neuromodulators: patient safety and expectations.

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons — Cost considerations and common areas.

• Peer-reviewed dosing guidance for glabellar complex and lateral canthus.