DYSPORT
Dysport is a formulation of botulinum toxin similar to Botox. Its effects are virtually identical, giving temporary paralysis of the muscle that it is injected into. It was the second formulation of botulinum toxin approved by the FDA, and has been on the American market since April 2009. Far from a “new” or “experimental” treatment, Dysport has an established safety record and is constantly getting more FDA approvals, including for migraine headaches and muscle spasticity. Though it does not have the same name recognition as Botox, it has a strong following in the cosmetic surgery world.
How is Dysport Different?
Dysport, like Botox, consists of a protein carrier complexed with the active toxin molecule. The difference is that Dysport has parts of the protein carrier molecule cleaved, or “cut” off, leaving the active toxin intact. Dysport is supplied as a vial that contains 300 units, which we use interchangeably with 100 units of Botox. We use the same dilution (2cc of saline into one vial), and treat the same areas with a similar dosage. Rather than constantly having to multiply and divide by 3, we even refer to our Dysport in terms of “Botox Equivalent Units” for simplicity. You may see some sites that advertise Dysport for approximately one-third of our advertised price, and this is the reason why.
“Dysport Spreads More Than Botox”
This is a common marketing line that I hear when people discuss Botox vs. Dysport. This claim is interesting and makes sense, because the Dysport molecule is smaller, which normally means that it would travel farther through tissues. However, just because it makes sense does not make it true. If this were, in fact, true, then there should be a demonstrable difference between the effects between these two drugs. There is none, and until published peer-reviewed medical literature backs up this claim, I will treat it as FALSE.
Why Offer Dysport and Botox?
At Nuance Facial Plastics, we actually offer all three FDA approved formulations of botulinum toxin, Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. We do so because patients have certain brand preferences, and being able to offer the full line of neuromodulators helps us take better care of our patients. If they have had a better experience with one product compared to another, we always have it on hand.
Which Areas Do You Treat With Dysport?
The most common areas to treat with Dysport are the forehead furrows, frown lines (“the 11s”), and crow’s feet. There are numerous other areas that also have great results, such as the massater muscles, which have a slimming effect on the face, and the “bunny lines” of the nose. For a full facial evaluation and discussion about what areas you would like to address, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Kundaria of Nuance Facial Plastics.
