Botox/Dysport
Botox is a generic term most people use to describe synthetic botulinum toxin, a toxin produced by the bacteria clostridium botulinum. The toxin works by blocking the release of a chemical that causes muscle contraction. As a result, certain muscles can be weakened or paralyzed for cosmetic and functional purposes. Almost every field of medicine has a therapeutic usage for this class of drug. Neurologists use it for migraines, hand surgeons for muscle spasm, and urologists for bladder spasm. Plastic Surgeons often use it for cosmetic purposes to improve wrinkles and scars. There are several different brand names for this toxin including Dysport, Xeomin, and Botox. In our practice we use the toxin for cosmetic purposes in the face and for muscle spasms in the hand and forearm. We predominantly use Dysport as we’ve found it acts sooner and lasts approximately 1 month longer than Botox.
Dr. Graham is a board certified plastic surgeon. He has had specific training in botulinum toxin and other injectables. As required by his advanced surgical training and board certification, he has an intimate understanding of the anatomy involved with Dysport and Botox injections and the specific indications for its use. As a result, you get the right treatment for the right area. This gives you better results as well as saves you money.
Book a Botox/Dysport appointment online here!
Where can Dysport/Botox be used?
Dysport or Botox injections address very specific wrinkles of the face. Wrinkles can be caused by aging, sun exposure, or muscle contraction. Dysport addresses the wrinkles that are a result of muscle contraction. Most specifically, Dysport and Botox treat the following areas:
- Forehead lines: Lines and wrinkles that appear on the forehead can give you a harsh, aged appearance. In some individuals, these lines can appear at a very young age. Patients who have deep forehead lines may look perpetually tired and older than they feel. Dysport and Botox cosmetic can treat unwanted lines and wrinkles on the forehead and give you a softer, more youthful appearance.
- Frown lines: Frown lines are vertical wrinkles that appear between the brows. Caused by frequent muscle contractions from making certain facial expressions over time, frown lines can make you look angry and unapproachable. Dysport and Botox cosmetic can smooth out this area so that the face appears softer, more relaxed, and more approachable.
- Crows feet: Crow’s feet, also called smile lines, are small wrinkles that appear at the outer corners of the eyes. These lines are often among the first signs of facial aging. Dysport and Botox cosmetic can minimize aging by eliminating these lines so that the eyes become more of a youthful and attractive focal point on the face.
Dysport Procedure
Dysport Cosmetic is derived from a purified protein made by Clostridium botulinum bacterium, when injected into the facial muscles, Dysport Cosmetic limits the nerve activity. By halting the muscle movement, Dysport stops the cause of expression lines and other similar facial wrinkles. Dr. Graham will inject Dysport into the desired area. Pain is minimal, but ice or a topical anesthetic cream can be used to numb the treatment area if desired. The procedure lasts only 10 to 15 minutes and has no downtime. Results will typically last 3-4 months.
What are the risks associated with Botox treatment?
Botox is extremely safe. It does not contain actual bacteria, only the toxin that the bacterium produces. Therefore, the Botox itself cannot cause infection, although you can get a local infection from bacteria on the skin. The lethal dosage of Botulinum toxin in humans is 3000 units. Most people will have less than 50 units per treatment. Therefore, it is extremely unlikely to get too much. However, if too much is given in one area, and the injector is not careful, then this can result in undesired paralysis of surrounding muscles.
Please refer to the following publication by the ASPS.
How much does botox cost?
The price of botox varies based on the amount of drug needed and the experience of the injector? Average prices are $8-20 per unit. As an example, frown lines of the forehead are typically 20 Units. Dr. Graham’s pricing can be found here.
