Dysport^®

Dysport^® is a type of botulinum toxin type A injection or neuromodulator that works the same way as BOTOX^®. This wrinkle-smoothing injection is approved for cosmetic use to temporarily minimize or soften moderate to severe glabellar lines, which are the vertical frown lines between the eyebrows.
Dysport^® is designed to relax the facial muscles in the affected area to prevent wrinkles from forming on the face. It blocks the nerve signals to the muscles in the area where it is injected.

Although Dysport^® has the same active ingredient as BOTOX^®, there are some subtle differences between these neuromodulators. Since they are made by different manufacturers, their potencies and formulations are different. The formula used for Dysport^® is slightly lighter and less potent in comparison to BOTOX^®. The weight of the protective proteins in Dysport^® is not uniform, and it diffuses more easily compared to its more well-known counterpart, so it can be an ideal option for reducing wrinkles on larger areas like foreheads due to its spreadability. Dysport^® thoroughly and evenly reduces lines without causing a heavy feeling. Additionally, fewer injections may be needed to achieve optimal results. This injectable is particularly effective for the large, flat muscle in the forehead, however it may be less effective on smaller, more precise muscles.

Patients who have wrinkles that are linked to repetitive facial expressions—such as smiling, frowning, and squinting—are good candidates for neuromodulators. If you have a skin infection, are feeling unwell in any other way, have a neuromuscular condition, have facial muscle weakness, are under the age of 18, have certain chronic medical conditions, are allergic to any of the components of Dysport^®, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, then these botulinum toxin injections are not recommended.

Since it contains human albumin (a protein), lactose, and cow’s milk, this treatment is not recommended for patients who have dairy allergies.

Patients who aren’t getting the results they want from other neuromodulators or who seem to be “resistant” to their effects could consider trying Dysport^®.

Not much preparation is needed if you’re having this injectable treatment. However, there are some factors patients will need to consider if they want to minimize bruising. It’s recommended that patients avoid medications and supplements that thin the blood, since these increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Avoid heavy exercise, sunbathing, and saunas for several days after an injection session. Exercise increases blood flow, making it more likely for swelling and bruising to occur. You will also need to avoid drinking, since it increases the risk of redness and bruising from Dysport^®.

A Dysport^® injection session generally takes 20 minutes or less, during which your experienced nurse injector will carefully introduce the neuromodulator into the treatment area. The number of injections needed will vary depending on each patient’s facial features and the extent of their wrinkles. Any discomfort experienced is usually mild. No anesthetic is needed, though patients may request a topical medication to reduce sensation if desired.

Once injected, the prescription cosmetic gets to work. The active ingredient in this injectable is Clostridium Botulinum Toxin Type A, derived from common bacteria and responsible for inhibiting muscle activity. This is also the active ingredient in the similar BOTOX^® Cosmetic.

This neuromodulator is unique in that it typically works a little faster than BOTOX^®, with results appearing as soon as two days after an injection session. Each patient is different, and the duration of results varies from individual to individual, but Dysport^® usually has a duration of about four months—similar to BOTOX^®. Since it has a faster onset time, this injectable may work well for last-minute treatments.

In all treatments involving Dysport^®, patients may notice some slight bruising, swelling, and tenderness in the forehead after their injection session. All of these effects are common to injection-based treatments, and all should be expected to resolve on their own.

Patients can return to work or their other activities right away after getting Dysport^®. Try to avoid rubbing or placing pressure on the treatment area for around 12 hours. Rubbing or massaging the injection site could cause the neurotoxin to migrate to another area of the face. The resulting smoother skin will last for months, but as the effects fade and the muscle reactions return to normal, a new session can be scheduled for a fresh round of injections. Many patients follow this cycle to maintain a more youthful look throughout the year.