What are Botox™ and Dysport™ ?
Both Botox™ (by Allergan) and Dysport™ (by Medicis) are medicines that target nerve endings causing muscle contraction. It is used for a wide variety of medical illnesses as well as for cosmetic use. Medical uses include migraines and muscle spasticity. Cosmetically it is used for the treatment of glabella (frown lines), frontalis muscle (forehead lines) and orbicularis oculi muscles (crow’s feet). Both medicines are derived from botulinum toxin A.
Is one better than the other?
No. Both medicines target the same molecule at the nerve endings (SNAP-25). For most people the end result is identical. However, in general, most patients note that Dysport™ starts working faster. There appears to be no consistent finding that one lasts longer than the other. In general Dysport™ diffuses more, so it may be a more desirable treatment in men and should be avoided in people with more narrow/small forehead area. Each clinical situation is unique and we would work as a team to determine which treatment is optimal for you.
What else should I know about Botox™ and Dysport™ ?
Both medicines are very safe when used correctly by a trained healthcare professional. The effects of both medicines are temporary and you should expect to see resolution of the treatment within 3-to-4 months. It is well observed that people who consistently get Botox™ or Dysport™ require less dosage, less frequently as time goes by. This is most likely due to hypotrophy of the injected muscles (i.e. when you do not use these muscles they tend to become smaller and thinner, therefore not causing deep lines when they contract).
What are some of the rare side effects of Botox™ and Dysport™ ?
Both Botox™ and Dysport™ are very well tolerated, and work predictably. However, rare side effects have been reported. These include but are not limited to persistent headaches, double vision, eyebrow droop, asymmetry, and allergic symptoms such as swelling or a burning rash. If you experience this or any other side effect, please give us a call immediately. Just as in any injection on the face, there is a minimal chance of bruising.
What should I do after treatment?
We recommend exercising the muscles treated for 45 minutes. For example, if your frown lines were treated, frowning-and-relaxing repeatedly will increase the uptake of the medicine. It is also recommended that patients avoid heavy exercise or other facial treatment (microdermabrasion, facials etc.) for at least 4 hours.
What is the cost?
To learn about pricing and/or purchase online click here 
Photo courtesy of Allergan, Inc.
