Bunny lines Botox — softening the lines on the sides of the nose

Key facts

• Caused by the nasalis muscle on the upper nose
• A few units soften the lines
• Can become noticeable after frown or crow's feet treatment
• Results usually last around three to four months
• Precise placement protects the smile

What causes bunny lines

Bunny lines are caused by the nasalis muscle, which runs across the upper part of the nose. When it contracts, as when you scrunch your nose, laugh or squint, it creates diagonal or fan-shaped lines on each side of the nasal bridge. Some people naturally have a strong nasalis and show these lines from a young age, while for others they become more visible as the skin loses elasticity. They are dynamic lines, meaning they appear with movement, which is why they respond well to a muscle-relaxing treatment rather than to creams or fillers.

Why they can appear after other Botox

When the frown muscles between the brows and the muscles around the eyes are relaxed, some people unconsciously use the nasalis more to express emotion. This compensation can make bunny lines more noticeable after treatment of other areas. It is not a sign that the earlier treatment went wrong, but it shows why the upper face is often best assessed as a whole. Adding a small dose to the nasalis at the same session or at the two-week review usually restores a balanced look. Dr. Abdullah Anis watches for this pattern during your assessment.

The treatment itself

Treating bunny lines involves one or two tiny injections on each side of the upper nose, using only a few units of botulinum toxin. The procedure takes a few minutes and causes only brief discomfort. Precise placement is important: injecting too low or too far to the side can affect the muscles that lift the upper lip, which might change your smile. For this reason, an injector with good knowledge of facial anatomy should perform it. Bunny lines are commonly treated at the same time as the forehead, frown lines or crow's feet.

Results and aftercare

The effect begins over a few days, with the full result at about two weeks. Most people find their nose scrunch lines are softened while they can still make natural expressions. Results usually last around three to four months. After treatment, avoid rubbing the area, wearing heavy glasses that press on the injection points for the rest of the day if possible, strenuous exercise and lying flat for a few hours. Minor redness or tiny bruises usually settle quickly. A review appointment at around two weeks allows any small adjustment for symmetry.

Safety and suitability

Bunny lines Botox is a small, low-dose treatment, but the usual safety principles apply. It should be performed by a licensed doctor, and it is avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding and in some neuromuscular conditions. Tell your doctor about medicines, previous toxin treatments and any reactions. Seek urgent care for difficulty swallowing or breathing after any toxin injection, which is rare. At Manhal Medical Center in Dubai, Dr. Abdullah Anis, Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist, assesses your expressions and explains whether treating bunny lines will improve the overall balance of your face.

Botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles that create expression lines. When dosed carefully it softens lines while keeping natural movement.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.