Dysport is a newer alternative to the older and better known Botox. A derivative of Botulinum toxin, Dysport®, works by weakening the muscles of facial expression. Once the resting tone of the treated muscles is weakened, the pull of the muscles relaxes and the overlying skin flattens. By physiologically weakening the muscles, wrinkles are lessened naturally.
Dysport Indications In addition to treating forehead lines and glabellar lines, better known as eyebrow furrows or 11's, in patients 18-65, Dysport may also be used to correct wrinkles:
- Around the eyes (crow's feet)
- On the bridge of the nose (bunny lines)
- On the upper lip (smoker's lines)
Dysport may also be used to correct platysmal bands, or wrinkles that occur in the neck. Dysport can safely and effectively treat dynamic wrinkles and help stave off static or permanent wrinkles in both men and women, however men tend to require a greater quantity of Dysport, due to greater muscle tone.
Dysport Treatment Like Botox, Dysport targets dynamic wrinkles, or wrinkles that appear after muscle movement. These wrinkles typically fade when muscle movement (a smile or frown) stops, but over time the dynamic wrinkles can become static wrinkles that are permanently visible. To reduce dynamic wrinkles and slow the rate at which static wrinkles develop, Dysport uses a neurotoxin (botulinumtoxin A) to temporarily paralyze and weaken hyperactive muscles that control facial expression. Once the resting tone of the treated muscles is weakened, the pull of the muscles relaxes and the overlying skin flattens. The effects wear off after about three to six months, and repeat injections are necessary to maintain results. Complications are rare and usually temporary but may include paralysis of a nearby muscle, resulting in its temporary loss of function (e.g., a drooping eyelid). Dysport injections can be administered quickly and are virtually painfree. The product does disperse after it is injected, so it is extremely important that Dysport is injected with precision and care, especially around the eye area. It’s method of action is different than the other local treatments for the aging face which work by filling in the wrinkles or depressions These fillers are frequently not as effective as Dysport® in removing wrinkles in the upper third of the face and Dysport injections are often combined with these injectable fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane to provide more comprehensive facial rejuvenation The units for Dysport are different than Botox units but the actual volume of product injected and total cost are about the same. Don’t be supprized when you hear about the greater number of units with Dysport if you are used to Botox. What may surprise you is the earlier onset as early as two days in some patients.
Dysport Recovery There is no downtime or recovery period needed after Dysport treatment, and you may return to work and normal daily activities immediately. Redness and swelling at the injection site may occur, however this will typically resolve within a few hours. Avoiding NSAIDs such as motrin or alleve before and immediately after Dysport treatment will help you avoid bruising, but should bruising occur, it will resolve completely within a few weeks depending on how quickly your body heals. Arnica is a homeopathic remedy which is particularly helpful for bruising from these injections Additionally, rubbing the injection site, participating in vigorous exercise and any movement that causes blood to rush to the head should be avoided for the remainder of the day following your Dysport treatment. Dysport results are initially visible within a few days following treatment, however it may take one to two weeks to see the full effects of your Dysport The specific risks and the suitability of Dysport® Cosmetic for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
If you are interested in Dysport® plastic surgery or have any questions for Dr. Adams, call 505.327.1754 for a consultation or use our online contact form.