When it comes to neuromodulators, there’s one brand name everyone the world over knows, and then there are others. While everyone has heard of Botox®, that’s not true with Dysport®. At Bay Area Laser Cosmetic Surgery Center, Dr. Serebrakian carries Dysport® in addition to Botox®, and there are some differences that could make it a better choice for you.
Here’s more information about Dysport®.
What Is Dysport?
Dysport® is a neuromodulator. It is made primarily from the botulinum toxin type A, as is Botox®. These are the same bacteria that can cause botulism, but they are also found throughout the natural world. Back in the 1950s scientists discovered that when the botulinum toxin was injected in minute doses into a muscle it temporarily stopped the muscle from contracting. It does this by blocking the acetylcholine, the nerve messengers in the muscles. Since acetylcholine cannot deliver the message to the brain to contract the muscle, the muscle remains at rest.
The FDA approved Dysport® for cosmetic use for the treatment of frown lines and forehead wrinkles on May 1, 2009.
Only For Dynamic Wrinkles
Dysport® only is effective on wrinkles that are the result of muscle contractions under the skin. These are known as dynamic wrinkles, and they occur on the upper third of the face. When we make expressions, such as frowning or showing surprise, this engages the muscles around the eyes, between the eyebrows, and on the forehead. Over time and hundreds of thousands of these contractions, a wrinkle begins to form on the surface skin above the muscle. When Dysport® is injected into that muscle, it keeps the muscle relaxed so the wrinkle on the surface skin doesn’t form. This effect lasts for about four months.
What Are The Benefits Of Dysport?
Frown lines, colloquially known as the 11s, form between our eyebrows and can make us look older. Forehead lines have the same effect. By erasing these wrinkles, Dysport® smooths the forehead. Dr. Serebrakian also uses Dysport® to relax crow’s feet at the outside of the eyes, although technically this use is “off-label” for this area. To date, only Botox® has received FDA approval for use on crow’s feet.
Am I A Candidate For Dysport?
Whether Dysport® is right for you depends on the type of wrinkles you’re looking to erase. As mentioned above, Dysport® and Botox® only work on dynamic wrinkles that form due to endlessly repeated muscle contractions on the upper third of the face. If you’re looking to address forehead lines, the 11s, and crow’s feet, then Dr. Serebrakian can inject Dysport® to relax the muscles and erase the wrinkles.
However, if you’re looking to address lines and wrinkles on the middle to lower face, Dysport® is not the right option. These wrinkles need dermal fillers instead.
How Is Botox Different Than Dysport?
Botox® and Dysport® are very similar, but they have some subtle differences. Both work the same way on dynamic wrinkles. Some people think Dysport® lasts one month longer than Botox, but that hasn’t been clinically proven. The two products are diluted differently, so it takes more Dysport® to achieve the same results as Botox®, but the price is cheaper, so it equals out in the end. Dysport® is made of smaller molecules compared to Botox®. This allows Dysport® to start working a day or so faster than Botox®. It also allows Dysport® to be spread to a larger area. But the smaller molecules also make Dysport® more difficult to work with when treating smaller areas.
How Soon Can I Expect My Results After Dysport Injections?
Dysport®, like Botox®, doesn’t provide instant results. That’s because it takes some time for the botulinum toxin to block the acetylcholine in the injected muscle to keep it relaxed. Dysport® usually takes around three days to fully relax the muscle. From there, your results will last approximately four months.
What Should I Avoid Doing After Having My Dysport Injections?
You can get right back to work or your other normal activities immediately following your session with Dr. Serebrakian. The only thing you need to avoid is rubbing your injection sites for the first 24 hours. This can make the Dysport® migrate to an unintended muscle.
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What Are The Risks Involved With Dysport?
Botox® has been injected millions of times around the world and has proven to be very safe and effective. Dysport® is basically the same as Botox®. Patients can have some slight redness and swelling at the injection sites, but this typically passes in a day or so. Some people can develop a headache over the first day after their injections, but this is rare.
The main risk is having Dysport® injected into the wrong muscle, leading to issues such as a drooping eyelid. Dr. Serebrakian is a board-certified surgeon focusing on the face, head, and neck. He handles all of these injections, and his extensive knowledge of facial anatomy ensures you’ll love the results of your Dysport® injections.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you're interested in learning more about Dysport please contact us for a consultation today. We will discuss your needs and concerns, and determine your best course of action.
