Botox® (Onabotulinum A) and Dysport® (Abobotulinum A)
Botulinum toxin A (Bont-A), commonly known as Botox & Dysport, is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and related species. Botox/Dysport has been widely used in medicine to treat a variety of neurological conditions, from treating eye spasms in the late 70s to respiratory ailments in the 80s. However, in 1997 a California dermatologist began using it to reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead.
Fast-forward to today, and over 180 medical conditions are regularly treated with Bont-A, including:
- Overactive Bladder
- Migraines
- Cervical Dystonia
- Hyperhydrosis (Excessive Sweating)
- Blepharospasm (uncontrolled blinking)
- Cervical Dystonia (severe muscle spasms of neck)
Allergan was the first to produce Botox/Dysport in a cosmetic formulation and receive FDA approval. Their marketing campaigns allowed them to corner the market, and today, over six million treatments of Botox/Dysport are performed every year in the United States alone.
The Bont-A market is expanding every year, and advancements in longevity are around the corner. The most well-known producers of Bont-A in cosmetic form include the original Botox by Allergan, Dysport by Galderma, and Xeomin by Merz.
Sophia Michelle Aesthetics Bont-A (Botox-Dysport) Treatment
A simple and effective philosophy when it comes to using Bont-A is “less is more.” PA Sophia Michelle teaches her clients about the importance of preservation of self and aging gracefully. A few clients can get away with having zero movement in the brow, however, many people are left with an altered appearance or are at risk of getting a brow drop from a complete freeze. An in-depth analysis of asymmetry, muscle strength, causes of fine lines and wrinkles, plus personality and natural facial expression are reviewed before receiving treatment. Clients will be given their individual treatment plan, and a two-week follow-up will be scheduled to discuss their results.
How many units do you need per area?
Everyone has a place on the bell curve for the amount of Bont-A necessary to achieve their desired result; some are significantly less, while others are considerably more. Ultimately, you won’t know what your level will be without starting on the lower end and working your way up. Sophia Michelle Aesthetics is focused on the result, and not overcharging clients unnecessarily higher doses. Below is a scrolling box to help determine the number of units needed.
Regions for Treatment
BEFORE & AFTERS
Before
After
Dysport
Patient 1
Before
After
Patient 2
FAQs
How many units of Dysport are equal to a unit of Botox?
There is some debate out about the exact accuracy of the dilution rate; 2.5 to 1 or 3 to 1 are the most common dilution rates, which means every three units of Dysport is equivalent to one unit of Botox.
How long does Botox/Dysport last?
Allergan recommends allowing up to two weeks for Botox to take full effect, but most patients will notice a relaxing and softening of the treated areas beginning as early as three to four days and building over a two-week time frame. At two weeks post-injection, follow-up is recommended to ensure that you are satisfied with your results. After that, patients may return as often as needed to maintain their desired look. Effects of Botox can last between three to six months, depending on your metabolism, activity level, and time of year (hotter months = shorter duration).
Does Botox last longer than Dysport?
By reviewing studies, and PA Sophia Michelle’s extensive experience with both products, her opinion is that Dysport has a faster onset, while Botox has a longer duration.
What are the risks of Botox/Dysport?
Three percent of patients experienced eyelid drooping in the frown lines studies, and one percent experienced eyelid swelling in the crows feet (around the eyes) studies. Other side effects experienced by less than one percent of the patients surveyed include:
- Dry mouth
- Discomfort during injection
- Tiredness
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Eye problems: double vision, blurred vision, reduction in eyesight, dry eyes, and allergic reactions
These are just some of the most common side effects, so if you are experiencing any other issues, be sure to consult with your injector.
What are the costs of Botox/Dysport?
Some practices will charge by the treatment area, others charge by the unit, and some charge by the number of vials used. In Dallas, price ranges from $10.50 to $16 per unit.
Patients should focus not on the total price, but instead, the total number of units used. Some Botox providers will charge by the location – for example, you may pay $150 per area, but only ten units were used. Sounds like a great deal, however that is not necessarily the case, especially when they are only guaranteeing up to three months. Always make sure to ask how many units are being used so that you can determine the true cost. Expert injectors understand that there is no such thing as a standard unit for an area, as everyone’s facial anatomy and muscular strengths are variable, especially from one side of the face to the other.
While cost is an important factor in determining who you see for your Botox injections, there are other essential factors to consider. The inquiring client should focus on the amount of time spent and quality of care you receive with each treatment as the key determining factor in selecting your provider and practice.
Higher volume practices do have greater purchasing power, and higher profit margin capabilities. They can share those profits with the patients by offering more competitive pricing, or invest that money in the quality of service you receive with more staff and better facilities. If you’re going to a high volume practice and receiving attentive care, then they’re investing in the practice’s ability to maintain quality. If you feel like just a fast number, then they are most likely pocketing the profits.
“You get what you pay for” is an appropriate adage for all aesthetic treatments, so you need to be your own advocate, and understand what you are receiving in exchange for your hard earned money.