Commonly Asked Questions about Dysport

Botox has become somewhat of a household name. Because of the media, we commonly associate Botox with celebrities and dermal fillers in general.  However Dysport is Botox’s newest rival. Here are some answers to common questions about this new type of injection.

What is Dysport?

Dysport and Botox are both botulinum toxins. Essentially, they are  protein compounds extracted from the Clostridium botulinium bacteria. The structure of Dysport, however, is slightly different. There are fewer sub-proteins surrounding the toxin. It is easier for the body’s system to acceptDysport because of this. Sometimes Botox becomes ineffective in patients because their immune system produces antibodies to attack it.

How does Dysport Work?

Dysport can be considered a Botox alternative. But it works in the same way.

In our bodies, nerve cells send signals to muscles. For example, emotions of anger or worry has a physiological component where the nerves cause our brow muscles to contract and furrow. Dysport dampens this signal by entering nerve cells and inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. The muscles respond by relaxing. Dysport is not limited to the forehead. It is injected into other muscles that cause facial expressions.

How Does Dysport Compare to Botox?

Dysport for crows feet  may become the norm after a recent study which was published in the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, compared the effects of Botox to Dysport. The trial lasted thirty days. 90 subjects with crows feet had Botox injected into one side of the face and Dysport injected into the other side. The reduction in the appearance of crows feet was significant with the Dysport injections. But this effect was only apparent when the patients were smiling.

Most doctors allow their patients to choose between Dysport and Botox.

How Long Will The Effects of Dysport Last?

This effect is not permanent and will last about 3-4 months.  Regular injections are needed. The procedure lasts about 10 minutes and there is no downtime.

Dr. Umar’s practice offers both Botox and Dysport. If you’d like to know which one is right for you, please visit www.finetouchdermatology.com to request a free consultation.