For some, botulinum toxin can be life-changing. That includes “Live with Kelly and Ryan” host Kelly Ripa, who once told television talk show host Andy Cohen: “It’s cut my getting ready time in half. I’m not advocating for it one way or the other. I’m just saying Botox changed my life.”
Botox is a specific type A botulinum toxin and the first to be approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use, in 2002. This was followed by Dysport, another type A botulinum toxin, in 2009. Both have the same purpose: blocking nerve signals to muscles. The two became widely known for treating wrinkles, forehead lines, fine lines, and crow’s feet around the eyes.
Although these two noninvasive injectables share similar effects, there are several important differences between them.
Treatments
Each treats separate fine lines. Botox Cosmetic is approved to temporarily dispel severe frown lines and crow’s feet in adults older than 18. Dysport, however, is used to remedy glabellar lines, which appear in the area between your eyebrows. They’re both authorized to treat cervical dystonia and spasticity in adults and upper and lower limb spasticity in adolescents and children aged 2 and older. Botox is FDA approved for more medical conditions, including bladder dysfunction, chronic migraine, and excessive sweating.
Potency
Because they are manufactured by different brands, the resulting nontoxing proteins create varying potencies. This means that the dosage is also different. For example, 100 units of Botox is not the same as 100 units of Dysport. Botox Cosmetic is typically supplied in single-use vials containing 50 or 100 units of OnabotulinumtoxinA (ONA), while Dysport comes in 300 or 500 units of AbobotulinumtoxinA (ABO). Botox multi-use vials containg 100 or 200 units of ONA.
Recovery
Due to the difference in potency, recovery times and durations may differ for each patient. Generally, Botox and Dysport take 24 to 72 hours to take effect, however, Botox may take a bit longer in some cases. Both last for three to 12 months.
How do you choose between Botox or Dysport?
It all depends on what you’re trying to treat. If you want to get rid of those lines between your eyebrows, you’ll want Dysport. Looking to smooth the creases of your forehead or near your eyes? Botox is the answer. Your plastic surgeon may use both if you’re hoping to hit all of these areas.
It’s best to consult your doctor before getting any injectables or fillers.
Dr. Anthony Buglino provides free consultations at his Woodbury, NY office. Schedule an initial appointment, so he can assess your goals and discuss your options. Buglino Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery boasts a variety of dermal fillers and injectables to resolve fine lines and deep wrinkles. These include Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Belotero, Radiesse, Juvéderm, Sculptra, Restylane, Perlane, and Kybella. Dr. Buglino has expertise using these products to naturally enhance nearly every part of your face so you can achieve your desired results.
