Botox® and Dysport® Injections
Botox and Dysport are botulinum toxin treatments that minimize or reverse wrinkle formation. These treatments temporarily weaken or paralyze various muscles of the face. They act to relax the muscles that produce dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are those wrinkles caused by the activity of the facial muscles (e.g., frowning, squinting, smiling, and raising eyebrows).
How Botox and Dysport Work
Facial wrinkles occur either due to the action of facial muscles on the skin or from a combination of other factors (sun exposure, genetics, smoking, etc.). With treatment, as various facial muscles are weakened or paralyzed, the overlying skin relaxes. This subsequently decreases the depth of existing wrinkles or prevents future wrinkles from forming.
Botox and Dysport are well-tolerated in the office, with few to no side effects experienced by most patients.
Difference Between Botox and Dysport
Botox and Dysport are both muscle relaxants approved by the FDA for cosmetic use. Botox is the registered trademark of the toxin produced by Allergan, and Dysport is the registered trademark name of the toxin produced by Galderma.
Both have the same active ingredient, Botulinum Type A, but the major difference is in the level of concentration in each product. Dysport is more diluted than Botox, and it spreads faster, especially over larger surface areas like the forehead and frown lines with just a few injections.
Botox works well for frown lines, lip lines, crow’s feet and other fine wrinkles. Its concentration is higher, and it is slow-moving. Your dermatology provider will decide which product is best suited for your needs.
Indications for Use
Botox and Dysport are used primarily to treat frown lines, crow’s feet and/or forehead lines. They may also be used to treat vertical lip lines, gummy smiles, horizontal neck bands (for some patients), the fullness of the masseter muscles to slim the jawline and the droopy outer corners of the mouth.
Botox and Dysport are administered with very small needles, which allow for a relatively fast and painless injection.
Botox or Dysport Consultations
During your consultation, your clinician will ask you several questions about:
- Your medical history
- Any medications you may be taking, including any over-the-counter medications
- Any medical conditions, including muscle or nerve conditions
- Your plans for future surgeries
- Your aesthetic goals
For women, you should let your clinician know if you are currently pregnant, planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding.
You should also let your clinician know if you have had any other botulinum toxin treatment in the last four months.
After a thorough review of your medical history, your clinician will determine if Botox or Dysport is right for you and, if so, discuss your treatment goals and perform a facial analysis.
Botox and Dysport Treatments in NY, NJ, PA, CT, FL, IL, MN and MO
If you are interested in receiving Botox or Dysport treatment, please call Schweiger Dermatology Group at (844) DERM-DOC to schedule an appointment.
Some dermatology providers now offer LIP FLIP with Botox or Top Model LIP FLIP with Vollure and Botox.
Botox and Dysport Treatment FAQs
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How many Botox or Dysport treatments will you need?
The number of treatments you will need depends on your goals and needs. During your consultation, you can discuss this and any other questions you may have with your clinician, so you have a clear understanding of your proposed treatment plan.
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Are Botox and Dysport treatments safe?
Botulinum toxin treatment with Botox and Dysport are safe for qualified candidates. Please alert your clinician if you have any medical conditions, especially any affecting the nervous systems or muscles.
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Are there side effects of Botox or Dysport treatments?
Temporary side effects can include slight pain, numbness, and headaches. More moderate side effects include droopy eyelids, sore throat, and muscle spasms. On rare occasions, botulinum toxicity may be seen. Signs of this serious side effect include breathing, speaking, and swallowing difficulties.
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How long should you wait between treatments?
It is recommended that you wait a minimum of 90 days before having another Botox or Dysport treatment.
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How soon will you see the effects of Botox or Dysport treatment?
You will start to notice the effects of Botox or Dysport treatment within three to five days after treatment. The full effect may take two weeks to be seen.
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How long do results last of Botox or Dysport treatment?
Results of Botox or Dysport treatment usually last up to three to four months.
When most people see the results of Botox or Dysport, they are extremely pleased. Their ability to iron out wrinkles is pretty impressive. The fine lines and wrinkles that you could once see appear much less severe, and the overall appearance is refreshed and more relaxed and rejuvenated.
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Who can inject Botox or Dysport?
Botox and Dysport injections should be administered by trained, licensed, and experienced dermatology providers who have years of experience. Strategically injecting Botox or Dysport is an art form. When injections are done properly, the results can be amazing, and you will not appear frozen or as though you have had work done.
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Is there any swelling after Botox or Dysport treatment?
Generally, there is minimal swelling after treatment, and it usually resides within two hours of treatment. You may apply an ice pack to the area treated to reduce any local swelling.
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Is there any downtime after Botox or Dysport treatment?
Most patients tolerate Botox or Dysport treatment very well and return to normal activities or work immediately after treatment. You should, though, refrain from any strenuous activity or exercise for the rest of the day.
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Are Botox or Dysport treatments painful?
Most patients say the injection feels like a pinch to the skin. If you are concerned about discomfort, a topical numbing cream can be applied before administering your treatment.
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How long does Botox or Dysport treatment take?
Treatment usually takes 10 minutes to be administered.
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Can Botox or Dysport treatment be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, Botox and Dysport can be combined with other cosmetic procedures for an improved appearance.
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Are there alternatives to Botox or Dysport if you have had an allergic reaction to one of these?
If you have had a reaction to Botox or Dysport or are sensitive to other types of fillers, Xeomin® may be a better option for you. Call to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatology providers to discuss this option further.