Botox (onabotulinumtoxin A) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxin A) are both FDA-approved injectable cosmetic treatments that temporarily relax overactive facial muscles that cause wrinkles. Regular treatments can help to prevent the formation of new wrinkles as well as soften pre-existing facial lines and wrinkles. For patients who have developed antibodies to Botox, making it less effective or decreasing longevity, Dysport is an equally effective alternative.

Botox (onabotulinum toxin A) and Dysport (abobotulinum toxin A) are similar products with the same clinical effect but produced by different manufacturers (think brand name). The number of Dysport units required is higher than Botox but this is simply because the product is diluted and delivered differently. Dysport is thought to diffuse (spread) a bit more than Botox, so some physicians favor its use in the forehead location. Patients may experience a slightly faster onset of action with Dysport.

Dysport injections can be used anywhere Botox injections are used including the:

• Forehead lines

• Frown lines (11’s between the brows)

• Lateral eyebrows (for a “medical” eyebrow lift)

• Crow’s feet (laugh lines or lines around the eyes)

• Bunny lines (crinkling along the sides of the nose)

• Lip border (for subtle lip enhancement without the use of fillers)

• Downturned corners of the mouth

• Vertical lip lines

• Chin dimpling

Gummy smile (a smile that shows too much of your gumline)

• Excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis)

You may see some effect as early as 2 days following injection and it can take as long as 7 days to see the full effect.

The average duration of Dysport treatment is 3 months, depending on your individual response, location injected, and degree of muscle activity. When used for jaw reduction or to treat excess sweating (hyperhidrosis) in the underarms, palms and soles, results can last up to 6 months

Our goal with Dysport is to soften lines and wrinkles on your face by relaxing the muscles of facial expression. You will still be able to smile and scowl, and you should never look expressionless or “frozen.”

Dysport is injected with tiny (insulin) needles. This along with ice packs and a professional strength numbing cream which can be applied in advance to the skin, make the procedure almost painless. Dysport has an excellent safety record in the hands of our highly experienced, board certified dermatologists at ShanthiMD Dermatology. Most commonly, temporary mild swelling, pain, and bruising can occur at the site of injection. Consider reviewing our pre-treatment tips for ways to reduce the risk of bruising prior to your treatment. Uncommon side effects have been reported rarely and include tiredness, double or blurred vision, headache, or eyelid droop.