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The Ultimate Guide to Botox and Dysport: Which is Right for You?

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A woman with her eyes closed is receiving an injection in her cheek from a physician.
In the ever-evolving world of cosmetic treatments, Botox and Dysport have emerged as seemingly similar treatments, leading our clients to wonder which injectable is best for them. When considering any procedure of this kind, we recommend connecting with our experienced and professional team to discuss specific details. In this post, we’ll explore the use of Botox and Dysport, shedding light on their origins, safety profiles, and the key differences that set them apart.

What is Botox?

Botox injections are made from botulinum toxin (Onabotulinum toxin A), which contributes to muscle paralyzation when injected in a specific area. While this is the same toxin that causes a type of food poisoning called botulism, the medical form of purified botulinum toxin used in medical aesthetic clinics does not impact clients with the same symptoms.

Approved Uses of Botox

Health Canada has approved Botox Cosmetic injections for use on the face and neck, including crow’s feet, brow furrows, and forehead lines. To learn more about approved uses, talk to your primary healthcare physician.

Safety and Efficacy

While Botox as a product was trademarked 35 years ago, Botulinum Toxin Type A has been used medically for nearly 50 years. Due to its long history, there are many common misconceptions, and any specific questions you have can be answered by our expert team of nurses. For example, a common misconception is that Botox treatments are painful when in reality, very fine needles are used during the procedure to minimize patient discomfort.

Safety Concerns

If you are considering Botox injections, it’s important to seek out a professional medical aesthetics clinic that is well-versed in this product to avoid potential side effects and risks. Headaches are a very common side effect of Botox, but, If not injected properly, other side effects can include:

  • Droopy eyelid muscles, also known as ptosis.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Intense pain or bruising at the injection site. 
  • Eye swelling.
  • Skin rash or an allergic reaction. 
  • Facial paralysis.
  • Irregular heartbeat and chest pain.

These side effects are often temporary but can potentially last several months. If they do persist, you should contact your primary care doctor promptly and seek medical treatment.

What is Dysport?

Dysport, much like Botox, also comes from botulinum toxin, though Dysport is from Abobotulinumtoxin A. Currently, Dysport is approved for a more narrow list of uses than Botox, and can only be used for forehead lines.

Safety and Efficacy

Dysport carries the same potential side effects as Botox, with a few extra considerations. Some uncommon side effects of Dysport are:

  • Nausea.
  • Sinusitis.
  • Upper respiratory infections.

These symptoms are usually temporary, but you should contact your primary care physician if they persist.

Botox vs. Dysport: Key Comparisons

Since Botox and Dysport contain similar active ingredients, comparing these two injectables is essential to understanding the potential impacts that selecting either treatment may have on your overall appearance.

Onset and Duration of Results

At BCI Clinic, we have an initial consultation with all our new clients to discuss their unique facial concerns and the available potential treatment options. The efficacy and duration of results will vary across our different treatment types. We can discuss these differences in more detail during your consultation, during which you can also bring up your questions and concerns.

Dosage and Unit Differences

Botox and Dysport are used in very different dosages despite their similarities. Clinicians also handle them differently, meaning that the amount you will receive during your appointment will depend on your specific needs and various factors, including age, skin type, and treated area.

Spreadability and Diffusion

Botox and Dysport vary greatly depending on the client and the type of injectable being used for the treatment. If you’d like to learn more about what treatments may be right for you and how different injectables may perform, make an appointment with BCI Clinic. We’ll be happy to walk you through your options and discuss your goals.

Pain and Comfort During the Procedure

Both Botox and Dysport use fine needles at specified injection points to ensure precision. It is possible to experience pain or mild discomfort during both procedures, but this is generally well tolerated. At BCI Clinic, we aim to ensure our clients are comfortable no matter their treatment.

Cost Considerations

The costs of Botox and Dysport are generally comparable. However, the precise expense for your treatment will depend on how much of the product is used, the area being treated, and the clinic you choose. After you reach out to our clinic and during your initial consultation, we can discuss potential costs and our pricing options in more detail.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Some lifestyle factors like sun exposure, skin type and texture, and facial symmetry may affect your results with Botox and Dysport. We highly recommend speaking with our team, especially if you are unsure which product might work best for your specific concerns. This way, we can assess your goals and expectations and help you choose which product will give you the best, most natural results. We can also determine whether a combination of treatments, including dermal fillers, may be appropriate to reach your goals more effectively.

At BCI Clinic, we want to help you make informed decisions about your cosmetic treatments to achieve natural results that make you feel beautiful and confident. If you have more questions or want to learn more about Botox and Dysport, contact us today.

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