What are Botox and Dysport and how do they
work?
Botox and Dysport are both purified proteins of botulinum
toxin A, which is derived from the bacteria that causes botulism. They cause
temporary paralysis of muscles at the site of local injection by preventing
communication between nerves. When used cosmetically, they cause relaxation of
facial muscles, which helps soften, eliminate, and prevent wrinkles.
What is the difference between Botox and
Dysport?
Botox and Dysport are slight variations of botulinum
toxin A. Both are equally as efficacious. Dysport tends to diffuse further
locally, which may be more beneficial when treating certain areas like the
Crow’s feet. Botox and Dysport units are not equivalent. One Botox unit is
equivalent to 2-3 units of Dysport. As such, Dysport is priced much lower per
unit but requires more units.
Is it safe?
Using a bacterial-derived toxin may sound scary, but
remember, penicillin is derived from fungus! Botox/Dysport have been used
safely for decades. Botox was originally created to treat eyelid spasms and
strabismus and is currently used for many other indications in medication such
as muscle spasms and migraine headaches. Side effects are typically minimal. The
major side effect from cosmetic use is a small bruise at the injection site, which
typically resolves within a few days. Patients with a history of certain
neurologic disorders, such as myasthenia gravis, which already predisposes to
muscle weakness, should not have neurotoxin injections. Serious side effects of
more extensive muscle weakness and difficulty swallowing have not been reported
with cosmetic doses of neurotoxins, but rather with off-label uses requiring
large volumes. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not have
Botox/Dysport treatment due to lack of safety evidence.
How quickly will I notice a difference?
The effect is not immediate. You will notice a weakening
of the muscles in the treated areas over the next few days after treatment. The
full effect can take 10-14 days.
How long does it last?
Botox/Dysport treatment is not permanent as the effect of
the toxin eventually wears off as the nerves regain function. The effect
typically takes around 4-6 months to wear off.
Which areas can be treated with Botox/Dysport?
Botox and Dysport are approved for cosmetic treatment of the
frown lines between the eyebrows and crow’s feet, but they are also commonly
used to treat forehead wrinkles, certain upper lip wrinkles, “gummy” smiles,
and enlarged masseter muscles. They are not used to fill in lines and wrinkles
or add volume to the face, rather this is done with fillers like Restylane or
Juvederm.
How bad does it hurt?
We use a very small needle to inject, so the pain is
minimal and the result is totally worth it!
Should I wait a few years for my wrinkles to
get worse before starting Botox/Dysport?
I often have patients tell me that they are waiting for
their wrinkles to get worse before trying Botox/Dysport. Unfortunately, once
wrinkles reach a certain depth and become more static, they may soften but not
completely disappear with Botox/Dysport. Starting Botox/Dysport treatments when
wrinkles are more superficial and dynamic halts wrinkle progression and even
prevents new wrinkle formation. Starting early has its advantages!
Is my face going to look “frozen”?
In the hands of an experienced injector, the answer is
no. We want our patients to look natural and attempt to use the least amount of
neurotoxin to get the optimal results.
How much Botox/Dysport will I need?
This depends on the areas being treated, and the strength
of your muscles. Again, we try to use the least number of units to accomplish
the goal of giving you a natural, more youthful look. We would be happy to
consult with you to assess your personal needs!
Trick or Treat yourself to a little Botox
this Halloween!
