Botox / Dysport

Similar to Botox, Dysport works by preventing the release of acetylcholine neurotransmitter vesicles thereby cutting off the communication between the nerve and the target muscle.

This process takes up to 2 weeks after injection to fully complete, although patients may see results after 2-3 days. However, Dysport’s onset of action is in fact faster than Botox and for patients in a hurry to see results quickly, we recommend using Dysport. The nerve regenerates new endings in about 3 to 4 months and the entire cycle starts again. This is why Dysport injections need to be repeated on average every 3 to 4 months for optimal results. Dysport leaves no significant residual effects beyond 4 months for most people.

Similar to Botox, Dysport injections must be repeated 3-4 times per year for best results. The goal is to keep the targeted muscles weak all the time. This is why we encourage our patients to schedule their visits in advance so there is no time period where their frown muscles are regaining bulk or strength. The goal is to have these muscles get weaker and weaker and therefore create fewer wrinkles.

Doing Dysport injections once a year is better than not doing Dysport at all. Twice a year is better than once a year injections. But ideally for the best results Dysport should be re-injected 3 to 4 times per year.

Dysport simply relaxes voluntary muscle movement in certain areas of the face. Therefore Dysport helps reduce or eliminate “dynamic wrinkles” or wrinkles that get worse with expression and movement.

The wrinkles that are already present at rest known as “static wrinkles” will not go away with just Dysport. Other additional procedures may be needed to improve those types of wrinkles.

Dysport comes in 300 unit sterile vials in powder form. Each clinic has to add saline to the vial to reconstitute or dilute the powder. Anywhere from 1cc, 1.5cc, 2.5cc to 3cc or more of saline (salt water) can be added per 300 units.

It is important to know how many units of Dysport or Botox are being injected because the volume depends on the dilution and unless you know your doctor’s dilution ratio, knowing how much volume was injected is not useful. B Medical Spa always tell their patients exactly how many units or the dose of their injection.

The usual risks are minor bruises from the needle itself, although allergic reaction and infection is also theoretically possible. Most of the risks are temporary and wear off as Dysport wears off.

Botox and Xeomin are other substances very similar to Dysport. Practically all of the information on this page applies to Botox and Xeomin as well other than the dates for FDA approval. Although Botox was the original FDA approved neurotoxin for reducing wrinkles and lines, Dysport has gained significant popularity in recent years. Dysport and Botox are the two most popular cosmetic wrinkle reduction substances in the United States.