Commonly used to minimize the appearance of facial wrinkles and lines, both Dysport and Botox are neurotoxins that work by blocking muscle contractions. Both procedures have a rather quick recovery rate, are generally painless, and are effective nonsurgical procedures.
But which one is best for you? Here are some answers to the most common questions.
What is Dysport® Used for?
Dysport injectables are commonly used to treat and smooth out the area between your eyebrows. Known as your glabellar lines, these lines and wrinkles often become more prominent as you age.
Dysport is generally recommended for treating moderate or severe glabellar wrinkles in individuals under the age of 65. It relaxes the muscles under your skin so the area is smoother and the results are natural.
How long for Dysport to work? You will generally see results in 2-3 days, and the results generally last for 3-4 months.
Before the actual injectables, the targeted area is often treated with a mild anesthetic. In general, frown lines typically require 0.05 ml injections of Dysport, often administered in up to five different portions in the forehead and eyebrow area.
What is BOTOX® Cosmetic?
Botox is an FDA-approved purified neurotoxin used to reduce frown lines as well as the lines around your eyes, commonly referred to as crow’s feet and forehead lines.
Just like Dysport, the Botox procedure can be performed in the doctor’s office. The recovery time for both treatments is minimal.
Different areas that need to be targeted as well as the severity of the lines and wrinkles will determine just how much Botox needs to be injected. For instance, frown lines typically require five injections with 20 units, crow’s feet need six injections with 24 units, while combined forehead and frown lines need ten injections and 40 units.
Dysport or Botox: What are the Differences?
While their purpose is rather similar, there are slight differences between Dysport and Botox. Knowing them can help you determine which treatment will be the most suitable for your own needs.
Here are the similarities between Botox and Dysport:
- They are both nonsurgical procedures.
- Both procedures are generally painless except for potential soreness at the injection sites after the procedure.
- Sessions for both typically last less than 20 minutes with very minimal recovery time.
- Treatments typically provide results that last for a couple of months.
- People who take muscle spasm meds and pregnant women should avoid both treatments.
Here are the differences between Botox and Dysport:
- There can be a difference in cost. Ask your healthcare provider for exact fees at the time of service.
- Dysport is generally used for glabellar lines, while Botox can be used for frown and forehead lines as well as crow’s feet
- One can expect results from Dysport within a couple of days, while Botox may take longer for the results to show.
- Botox effects can sometimes wear off sooner for some people.
- Aside from pregnancy and muscle spasm meds, Dysport is also not recommended for people who have milk allergies
Which Procedure Is More Effective?
Both injectables are effective. In general, a trained healthcare professional can help you make the best decision of whether to choose Botox, Dysport, or a combination of both.
Potential Side Effects of Dysport and Botox
When it comes to both Botox and Dysport, it’s extremely uncommon to experience severe side effects. Still, it’s possible to notice some relatively minor side effects that often go away on their own. Learn the side effects and the risks, so you are not caught off-guard.
Minor Dysport side effects include:
- Mild pain sensation at the injection site
- Headaches
- Eyelid swelling and rashes
Most side effects resolve on their own after a couple of days. However, if you experience sinusitis, respiratory infection, or nausea, please call your doctor immediately.
Minor Botox side effects include:
- Mild pain sensation at the injection sites
- Headaches
- Bruising and redness
- Swelling and numbness
Like Dysport, these Botox side effects often go away within a week after the procedure.
On extremely rare occasions, both Botox and Dysport could cause the so-called botulinum toxicity when the injection spreads to other areas. Contact your physician immediately if you notice the following symptoms:
- Weak facial muscles and spasms
- Breathing and speech difficulties
- Droopy eyelids
- Issues with eating and swallowing
Botox and Dysport After Care
Taking care of your skin after injectables is the same for both Botox and Dysport. Even though these are nonsurgical procedures with minimal recovery time, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for Botox and Dysport carefully.
- Exercise your facial muscles by smiling, frowning, and raising your eyebrows in order to boost the effects of the treatments.
- Avoid any other type of physical exercise, including yoga, until the mildest post-procedure symptoms have abated.
- Immediately after the procedure, try not to lie down for at least a couple of hours.
- Use a gel or ice pack on treated areas to minimize bruising and swelling.
- Avoid wearing makeup until the swelling is gone.
- Gently apply cold packs and makeup, as putting pressure on the treated area can only make the swelling and bruising worse.
- Take Tylenol as directed for pain relief.
- Regardless of whether you had Botox or Dysport, make sure to wait at least a whole day before going in for any other potential laser or skincare treatments.
- Make sure to avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays and wear sunscreen.
While both Dysport and Botox are commonly used nowadays and considered to be safe for most people, it’s still important to discuss your options and overall health with your doctor before scheduling an aesthetic procedure.
When you feel good, you look good. Or maybe it’s when you look good, you feel good?
At South Florida OB-GYN Associates, we believe both can be true, and we want you to be the best version of yourself, both inside and out. We offer a full array of aesthetic treatments at both our Doral and South Miami offices. Learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with us today.
