Botox® has become a household name since it was introduced in 2002 due to its ease of use and success in reducing and eliminating facial wrinkles. Botox is actually the brand name of botulinum toxin type A, which may sound dangerous, but the type A strain of this toxin is meticulously purified in a laboratory setting to be 100% free of bacteria and safe for use.
In 2009, Dysport® entered the market and has slowly gained traction as a popular injectable option for those looking to reverse the signs of aging. Like Botox, Dysport is derived from botulinum toxin type A and works in a similar way.
This leaves many people wondering: what is the difference between these two treatments? Does one provide better results than the other? Which one is right for me?
How are Botox and Dysport the Same?
Both Botox and Dysport are administered through an injection, which makes both treatments relatively simple, same-day procedures that take just a few minutes.
Biologically and chemically, the two products are practically identical. They each work by relaxing muscle tissue and prevent it from responding to the nerve impulses that control muscle contractions. It’s those muscle contractions that cause the lines and wrinkles you want to eliminate. Think of the “crow’s feet” that develop around your eyes due to squinting, or the “laugh lines” around the mouth from smiling.
Both Dysport and Botox last between three to six months. With regular visits to your board-certified plastic surgeon for injections, you can expect both Dysport and Botox to deliver a more youthful, rejuvenated look.
How are Botox and Dysport Different?
Some of the differences between the products come from their formulas. Dysport is a more diluted formula than Botox. That doesn’t make it any less effective than Botox, but you may need more injections of Dysport to get the same results from a smaller amount of Botox.
Dysport has smaller protein molecules that Botox, so it tends to spread throughout the treatment area more easily. This can be beneficial when treating large areas like the forehead. It also means that Dysport may not work as well for treating small areas or areas with thicker muscles, such as the space between your eyebrows or around your mouth.
It usually takes up to a week before you see results from your Botox treatment, whereas Dysport may show results in a shorter amount of time. Of course, these results are general trends, and may vary from patient to patient.
What are the side effects associated with Botox and Dysport?
Both Botox and Dysport produce similar side effects that typically include swelling, tenderness, and bruising around the injection site. These side effects are usually mild, subside quickly, and can be concealed with makeup in most cases. Some patients report getting a slight headache after treatment. It’s perfectly safe to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to alleviate any discomfort.
The injection area might feel numb as well, and due to the nature of the treatment, there will be little or no facial movement in the treated area. Again, these side effects will dissipate over time.
So, what’s the bottom line: Botox or Dysport?
Both Botox and Dysport are excellent products that have helped millions achieve a more youthful appearance. Your best move is to talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Fodero, who can answer all of your questions and help you decide which product is right for you.
Northeastern Plastic Surgery understands your desire for a beautiful, youthful looking body and facial appearance. We use the latest plastic surgery techniques to perform a variety of surgical procedures. Dr. Fodero and the staff are very friendly, helpful, and available to answer any questions you may have about the procedures we offer. We strive to ensure that your experience with us is positive. Please contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.
