Botox & Dysport

Description

Botox (onobotulinum toxin A) and Dysport (abobutulinum toxin A) are FDA-approved nonsurgical facial injectables that temporarily reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. Wrinkles of the glabella (vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows), forehead, and/or crow’s feet are most commonly treated. Botox and Dysport block the release of a neurotransmitter (acetycholine) that allows muscles to contract. This causes relaxation of the muscles responsible for the unwanted wrinkles.

Unlike many physicians, Plano Botox specialist, Dr. Friedman personally performs all injections. No two patients have exactly the same distribution or severity of wrinkles. Therefore, rather than following the manufacturer’s standardized chart of injection sites, Dr. Friedman customizes the injections for each patient. He will mark and photograph the areas to be injected, so that the results can be duplicated (or modified, as needed) with future injections.

To minimize discomfort, ice is applied to the skin prior to injection. If desired, we also have nitrous oxide (laughing gas) available. Regardless, discomfort is generally quite mild. To reduce the risk of bruising, you should avoid lying down flat on your back or engaging in exercise activity for several hours after the injection.

Botox was approved by the FDA in 2002; Dysport was FDA-approved in 2009. Both have undergone extensive clinical testing and have been in use since the late 1980s. Although the products are quite similar, Dr. Friedman has noted a few differences:

  • Dysport works faster. Botox takes about 3 to 5 days to start working; Dysport takes about 1 to 3.
  • In many patients, Botox may be more effective for the glabella (the furrows between the eyebrows) while Dysport may be more effective for the crows’ feet wrinkles. For the forehead, the two appear equally effective.

It is likely that more botulinum toxin products will be on the market in the near future. These include Purtox and Myobloc.

In addition to Botox and Dysport, we offer injectable fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane), medical microdermabrasion, and a complete line of skin care products (M.D. Forte and Vivite).

When you visit our office, Dr. Friedman will discuss your specific concerns. He will outline the available procedures and will help you decide whether Botox or Dysport are right for you. We will also show you a variety of "before and after" photos of patients who have had injections performed by Dr. Friedman. If you wish to speak to other patients who have undergone Botox or Dysport treatment, we will be happy to provide phone numbers.

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Q & A: Botox & Dysport

Are Botox and Dysport safe?

All procedures involve some degree of risk. However, Botox and Dysport both have a long track record of safe use, are approved for use in over 75 countries, and are FDA-approved for cosmetic use (for the lines between the brows). The only major side effect that Dr. Friedman has ever seen personally is temporary drooping of the eyelid.

How long do Botox and Dysport last?

Most patients see improvement of wrinkles within 1 to 3 days of injection with Dysport and within 3 to 5 days with Botox. The results will usually last about 3 to 4 months. With repeated injections, a duration of 5 to 6 months is possible in some patients.

Remember that unlike surgery, Botox and Dysport do not involve an irreversible change. The results, whether satisfactory or not, are temporary.

Will it make me look “frozen?”

Most patients want to look better, not different. Although it is possible to achieve a frozen look with high doses of Botox or Dysport, Dr. Friedman prefers to use these products conservatively, relaxing your wrinkles without making you look like “plastic.”

What is a chemical brow lift?

If you notice some sagging of the brows, selective Botox or Dysport injection of the muscles adjacent to the brow can provide mild elevation while reducing wrinkles, providing a more rejuvenated forehead. If desired, Dr. Friedman also performs surgical browlifts.

What’s the difference between Botox and Restylane?

Botox and Dysport reduce wrinkles by temporarily weakening overactice muscles. They work best for wrinkles between the eyebrows and in the forehead and crow’s feet.

Injectable fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane) reduce wrinkles by adding volume to the tissues (like putty). These work best for the nasolabial folds (the folds between the nose and the corners of the mouth), marionette lines (folds below the corners of the mouth), and vertical lip wrinkles. They also may be used to fill volume deficiencies of the lips, jawline, and cheeks.

Frequently botulinum toxin and injectable fillers are used together to provide facial rejuvenation, either alone or in conjunction with surgical procedures.

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Botox & Dysport: Instructions

One week before your appointment:

  • Do not take aspirin-containing products, as these may increase your risk of bruising. Use extra-strength Tylenol for any headaches or other minor pains.
  • Please notify Dr. Friedman's staff if you become sick with a fever, significant cough, etc. If necessary, your procedure can be rescheduled to a time when you are feeling better.

At home after the procedure:

To minimize bruising and to help keep the Botox or Dysport precisely where it was injected:

  • You may wish to apply ice to the injected areas to minimize any bruising.
  • Do not perform exercise activities for at least 8 hours after your procedure.
  • Do not massage or manipulate the injected areas for at least 8 hours after your procedure.
  • Do not lie flat on your back for at least 4 hours after your procedure.

Please feel free to ask Dr. Friedman or his staff about any additional questions or concerns.

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