Botox/Dysport

Botox

Botox Cosmetic – Botox (botulinum toxin Type A) is a purified neurotoxin complex which acts as a nerve impulse "blocker." When injected in small concentrations and volumes into hyperdynamic facial muscles, it causes a temporary weakness or paresis of the muscle, as well as progressive atrophy. Because of this, Botox was initially used for treatment of neuromuscular twitching disorders. However, patients that were injected with this agent also noticed a significantly refreshed and happier look because of weakening of the frown muscles, and at times some medial eyebrow elevation. Consequently, Botox has been used to treat hyperdynamic muscle creases and frown lines in the following areas:

• glabella ( frown lines)
• forehead
• crows feet
• "Bunny" lines (nose)
• lip lines ("smokers lines")
• drooping corners of mouth
• neck lines

The effects of Botox last approximately 4 months, but this can vary from 3-6 months. Repeated injections may result in more prolonged benefits. The clinical effect is often quite dramatic and can also be improved with injectable collagen fillers or laser resurfacing. The technique has been performed on thousands of patients with the most frequent side effects being short lived transient headache or irritation at the injection site. Botox cannot replace the dramatic effects that can be obtained with certain endoscopic procedures, but it is a very effective treatment for localized facial problems, as noted above. A brief consultation is required for this procedure.

Dysport

In 2009, Dysport, another neurotoxin very similar to Botox Cosmetic, was approved by the FDA for cosmetic treatment of glabellar frown lines, as well as a medical indication called cervical Dystonia. For cosmetic purposes, Dysport works as a neuromuscular blocking agent to reduce frown lines and can be injected just like Botox Cosmetic for the same indications noted above. However, there are a few important differences. Among these is a very significant difference in potency and biological activity based upon how the product is diluted. Therefore, as with Botox, it is important that the injector choose proper dilution and injection techniques to reduce the ability of the product to produce unwanted side-effects such as a diffusion beyond the site of intended injection. Dysport shares the same contraindications for usage as Botox, and in addition an allergy to cow's milk protein is another contraindication for use of Dysport. As with Botox Cosmetic, Dysport will prove to be effective for treatment of hyperdynamic frown lines for about four months.