Botox and Dysport
Whether you choose Botox or Dysport, understand they are both essentially the same thing. They are both neuromodulators but manufactured by different companies. When injected into the muscle it will then prevent the muscles from making the intended repetitive movement thus reducing and potentially eliminating the lines and wrinkles. They are both safe and effective when injected by a licensed medical professional.
What to expect
The injection process itself only takes about ten minutes in an outpatient setting, but expect to spend about 30 minutes for the full appointment. Your provider will spend time discussing the areas you are interested in treating, how many units will be needed to render effective results, answer all your questions, and review all aftercare. Treatment is quick and easy, in fact, many patients receive treatment on their lunch break, returning to work with no trouble at all.
Does the injection hurt?
Botox and Dysport injections can be completed rather quickly. The neuromodulator is injected via a very small insulin syringe, typically 30 gauge, and discomfort is minimal. There might be a brief moment patients may feel a slight pinch, but it is gone very quickly. Some patients report feeling a stinging sensation, but the toxin material itself is not painful.
Side Effects
Some side effects can include swelling, redness, and pain or tenderness at the injection site (although this is rare), these are mild and typically resolve anywhere from 30 min to a few hours.
Aftercare Do’s and Don’ts
Aftercare is simple after receiving Botox or Dysport, but it is also key to making the most of your treatment and keeping possible side effects to a minimum.
Physical Activity: It is highly recommended to avoid physical activity for the remainder of the day or 24 hours following your appointment. Any physical activity could increase the risk of bruising at the injection site. It is also best to avoid touching or manipulating the areas of your face that were injected.
Laying Down: We advise patients to not lay down for at least 4 hours following their appointment. Both bending and laying down could spread the toxin and lead to bruising at the injection site. Remember to consider other appointments you may have later in the day and plan accordingly.
Bruising: It is also advised to refrain from taking ibuprofen or any other blood thinning medications, and avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine both before and after your appointment.
Don’t Wear Make-up: It is advised to avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours. Make-up increases the risk of infection at the injection site. The image below shows the skin after it has been punctured with the smallest of needles. This image demonstrates how easy it is for bacteria to enter the skin causing infection.
Fun Fact
Botox may even reduce anxiety according to new data from the FDA in 2021. (1)
1. Levitan, C. 2021. Botox Injections May Reduce Anxiety. UC San Diego Health. https://health.ucsd.edu/news/releases/Pages/2021-12-21-botox-injections-may-reduce-anxiety.aspx