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What is Dysport?

Dysport® is very similar to Botox®. Dysport The active ingredient is just a slightly different version of the same molecule.  It works as a muscle relaxer to temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Dysport has been used in the US since it received FDA approval in 2009.  It was used extensively in Europe for several years prior to its entrance into the US market and continues to be one of the most popular injectable muscle relaxers worldwide.

Because it is a slightly different version of botulinum toxin type A, Dysport can be a very effective alternative for some people who do not fully respond to Botox treatment.

 

How Does it Work?

The active ingredient in Dysport works to reduce the contraction of muscles that cause wrinkling of the skin.  Some of these muscles just under the surface (between your brows or in the crow’s feet area for example) cause the overlying skin to crease and wrinkle when they contract.

Just like with Botox, the Dysport is injected directly into the area of the muscles causing the wrinkles.  There is minimal discomfort, but occasionally some patients choose to apply a topical numbing cream prior to treatment.  It still takes several days before you see the full effect, but some patients notice that Dysport begins to work a little bit faster than Botox.

Crows Feet, Botox cream

In one recent study from a well-respected facial plastic surgeon in San Francisco, Dysport was shown to be better than Botox in treating crow’s feet wrinkles (the ones around the corners of the eyes).

There are some potential side effects to be aware of, but fortunately these are rare.  It is important for you to choose an experienced injector anytime you consider having Dysport or Botox treatments.

 

How Long Does it Last?

Results appear within 1 week and last about the same as Botox in the majority of patients (3 to 4 months).  There are some studies available which have shown that Dysport occasionally lasts slightly longer than Botox, but our experience is that the two are very similar.

If Dysport does last longer for you, then consider that an added benefit.  However, we typically advise patients using Dysport to expect about 3 to 4 months until they need their next maintenance treatment.

 

How Much Does Dysport Cost?

In our office, the final cost for treating an area with Dysport or with Botox is exactly the same.

Sometimes there can be confusion regarding the dose and pricing because the “units” injected are not calculated the same as with Botox.  For example 1 Botox unit has roughly the same effect on wrinkle reduction as 3 Dysport units.

You don’t need to worry about the dilution amounts and math.  None of this means that Dysport is “watered down.”  Just trust that in experienced hands the amount needed to fully treat an area works out to be equivalent or better than Botox from a cost perspective.

 

 

Dr. David Rodwell specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and minimally invasive procedures such as Dysport and Botox.  To learn more about your options and what to expect after Dysport injections or other similar procedures call our office at (843) 628-1415 to schedule a private consultation.