Botox and Dysport, also known as neuromodulators, are procedures used to reduce and eliminate lines found on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes. This is done by relaxing the muscles responsible for the development of the fine lines, also known as wrinkles.
The word Botox has become a part of our everyday vocabulary, with millions of procedures being done in the United States every year. Dysport is newer to the cosmetic industry, having come into the US market in 2009. Although they are used for the same reasons and are chemically similar, the most importance difference between the two procedures is their dosage. For example, 50 units of Botox does not equal 50 units of Dysport.
The Similarities
We know that fine lines and wrinkles naturally develop over time due to repetitious, every day facial movements and expressions like smiling, squinting and raising your eyebrows. Botox and Dysport resolves this issue when either are injected into a targeted muscle area, which temporarily blocks nerve pulses that control muscle contractions. The decrease in movement and relaxation of the muscles reduces the appearance of wrinkles in the designated area.
Results for both Botox and Dysport are temporary. Nerve impulses will reach the targeted muscle area again after a period of time, which results in the reappearance of wrinkles and fine lines. With regular treatment sessions, which take place about every three to six months, you’ll maintain positive, lasting results.
The Differences
Overall, the main difference Botox and Dysport is their varying formulas. Patients using a certain number of Botox units for their treatments will most likely need to increase the number of units if they switch to Dysport. That doesn’t mean that Dysport is less effective than Botox because a greater dilution is needed. It only means that a higher quantity of Dysport is needed to achieve the same level of results.
Dysport also contains smaller molecules in its formula than Botox, which can actually be very beneficial. Smaller molecules allow Dysport to work faster than Botox and cover a larger area. Keep in mind though that it’s important you go to a specialist who has experience and expertise in proper dosing and placement.
Finally, Dysport tends to diffuse more than Botox, which causes it to spread farther after it’s injected. A larger area can be treated with fewer injections, which many patients find appealing. It’s important to know, though, that higher diffusion causes Dysport to be less effective in treating smaller areas or areas with thicker muscles, where more precision is needed.
Which is Right for Me?
When it comes to customer evaluation, both procedures are reviewed as equally successful with high satisfaction rates. It really comes down to the simple preference of both the injector and the patient. If you’re interested in Botox or Dysport, or want to know more about them and which would be the better option for you, contact us to schedule an appointment.