If you have wrinkles around your eyes or across your forehead, you have probably heard of Botox®, a safe and effective injectable treatment that can remove wrinkles and erase the signs of aging. Dysport® is another pharmaceutical that can also effectively remove and prevent wrinkles and has more recently come to the United States market. Because the procedure is fast, safe, painless, and requires essentially no downtime, injections of these neuromodulators have become both quite popular to address signs of aging for both men and women. This blog discusses the similarities and differences between the two injectable treatments.
HOW ARE BOTOX® AND DYSPORT® SIMILAR?
Botox® and Dysport® are both neuromodulators that are derived from a molecule produced by bacteria; these botulinum proteins work to cause relaxation of the muscles that otherwise create lines in the face when they contract. They are typically used to relax the forehead and around the eyes, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and also preventing the formation and deepening of these lines in the future. They work using the same mechanism, targeting the same pathways of muscle contraction by blocking the connection between the nerves and the muscles.
Both drugs have a long history of use and proven safety and efficacy, but Dysport® has been used only in Europe until much more recently. Extensive testing has been performed on each of the drugs, and they have shown comparable efficacy and side effects. In most clinical offices, Botox® and Dysport® have similar prices, though Dysport® may be slightly less expensive in some places. And, they have the same duration of effect; most patients need injections approximately every 3-6 months whether their physician uses Botox® or Dysport®.
HOW ARE BOTOX® AND DYSPORT® DIFFERENT?
Though these molecules are derived from the same source and have similar mechanisms of action, the molecules themselves differ slightly in structure. Dysport® is a smaller molecule, which allows it to diffuse or spread to a slightly larger area than Botox®. This can be advantageous in some locations of the face and can have disadvantages in other spots. Because the sizes of the molecules are different, there may also be a difference in dosing, requiring a larger amount of Dysport® than Botox® for the same results. There is some evidence to suggest that Dysport® may not last quite as long, though the average duration is quite similar. Further studies will help to demonstrate whether this is true.
WHO DOES YOUR INJECTIONS MATTERS MORE THAN WHETHER THEY USE BOTOX® OR DYSPORT®.
Though there are some differences between these botulinum proteins, both Botox® and Dysport® have been repeatedly demonstrated to be safe and effective at reducing the appearance and formation of wrinkles. Either of these products can give you great results when injected by a highly-skilled clinician that has a great deal of experience. As an oculofacial plastic surgeon, Dr. Kashyap has a deep knowledge of the muscles in the face that is unparalleled in the field of cosmetic treatments. You want the best when you choose your facial cosmetic procedures. Get precise placement of Botox® or Dysport® injections for best results, and you can begin enjoying a smoother, younger look!
If you are looking for a solution to your wrinkles that can give you a smooth, youthful look with no downtime, Botox® or Dysport® may be right for you. Call 347.788.1841 today to schedule a consultation to find out about the many options that can help you look your best!
