Dysport

What is Dysport?

Dysport is a dermal filler injection treatment (FDA-approved) that reduces the appearances of fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles on the forehead. It is similar to BOTOX and injected directly into the site of wrinkles to prevent the underlying muscles from contracting. The difference between Dysport and BOTOX, however, is that, Dysport can diffuse muscles one to three centimeters from the injection point, while Botox can only diffuse as far as one centimeter, allowing for results that reach further facial areas with just a single injection.

Dysport was developed in Europe during the early 1990s. After the success in Europe, it was introduced to the US under the name Reloxin, but was mandated to be FDA approved under its original name, Dysport. In April 2009, Dysport was approved by the FDA for use in the United States.

Dysport is made from a protein from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the same protein used in BOTOX. This oroteij was originally used to control motor disorders and involuntary muscle spasms by immobilizing the targeted muscles.

In addition to treating wrinkles and fine lines, Dysport can also be used to relieve excessive underarm sweating, and tackle the symptoms of cervical dystonia, such as neck pain and abnormal head position.

Who is a candidate for Dysport?

As we age, the facial skin loses it elasticity and the creases in our face turn into permanent lines and wrinkles. This usually happens on the forehead and around the eyes and mouth, on the locations of the muscles that help us smile and frown. Dysport immobilizes these facial muscles to restore a more youthful expression, and actually trains the muscles to contract less often after several Dysport treatments.

Dysport treatment is ideal for nearly any patient who wishes to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and restore more youthful facial expression. Both men and women can benefit from the Dysport treatment and feel better and more confident about their appearance.

The Dysport Treatment

The Dysport treatment involves several tiny injections administered directly into the facial muscles that cause frown lines and other wrinkles. For most patients, the injection is placed between the eyebrows to immobilize facial muscles in the forehead that cause the frown lines.

The Dysport injections are generally painless and do not require anesthesia, although a numbing agent may be used to help minimize any discomfort from the injection for patients who are anxious about the treatment. Treatment sessions usually take less than 15 minutes, and can be administered at six week intervals. Most patients achieve their desired results within three to five injections.

The results of the Dysport treatment are visible within one to seven days after treatment, with most patients seeing results on the third day. With less protein than Botox, Dysport is broken down more slowly by the body, and can provide results that last as long as 13 months.

Although the Dysport treatment is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any kind of procedure. Some of these risks may include an allergic reaction or a condition known as ptosis, which involves droopiness of the eyelid. Some patients may experience negligible side effects such as soreness and bruising at the injection site, along with a headache for several hours after treatment. These side effects will go away on their own and can also be relieved with mild painkillers.

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients, or have a neuromuscular disease, should not undergo this treatment.

Benefits of Dysport

After the injections, patients will notice their facial muscles gradually relaxing over the next few days as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles disappear. With repeated Dysport treatment, results can last up to 13 months and are eventually required less and less frequently, because the facial muscles become trained to avoid contracting.

» View Dr. Tehrani’s skin care website for more information.