BOTOX® vs. Dysport® in Grand Rapids: Which Injectable Is Right for You? Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery

We often see patients who are curious about neurotoxins but don't know where to start. BOTOX® is the biggest name in the category, but it is no longer the only option, and there is no product that is objectively the best neurotoxin for every situation.

At Symmetry Med Spa by Bengtson Center, we have some patients who love and stick with BOTOX® and others who like Dysport®, the first competitor to BOTOX®, better. We offer both options so you and your Master Injector can choose the product that suits you.

If you're considering a wrinkle treatment in Grand Rapids or Byron Center and would like to speak with an experienced Master Injector, schedule a consultation at Symmetry Med Spa.

What Do BOTOX® and Dysport® Have in Common?

BOTOX® and Dysport® are purified forms of botulinum toxin type A used to minimize fine lines and wrinkles. They work the same way: by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that tell certain muscles to contract. When those muscles relax, the skin above also relaxes, and lines in the treated area soften.

Treatments with BOTOX® and Dysport® are quick and convenient. Sessions typically take about 10-20 minutes. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and little to no downtime. Results last approximately three to four months before a maintenance treatment is needed.

Both products can be used beyond cosmetic wrinkle treatment. Other common applications include brow lifting, facial slimming, lip enhancement, reducing chin dimpling and lifting downturned mouth corners. BOTOX® and Dysport® also have FDA-approved medical applications including severe neck spasms, chronic migraines (BOTOX® only) and excessive sweating/hyperhidrosis (BOTOX® only).

Ultimately, this isn't a "good vs. bad" comparison. Both are popular, well-studied treatments with long track records. The question is which one suits you best, and that comes down to the differences.

How Do BOTOX® and Dysport® Differ?

Comparing BOTOX® to Dysport® is not comparing apples to oranges. It's more like comparing a McIntosh to a Fuji — there are some subtle differences, but they are both apples.

Manufacturing

BOTOX® is manufactured by Allergan and contains onabotulinumtoxinA. It received FDA approval in 1989. The Bengtson Center is proud to be a recipient of Allergan's Black Diamond status, indicating the practice is in the top 1% of Allergan product providers nationwide.

Dysport® is manufactured by Galderma and contains abobotulinumtoxinA. It received FDA approval in 2009.

Spread

BOTOX® remains more localized to the injection sites, meaning it "stays put" where an injector places it. That is a useful quality for small areas like the corrugator muscles (between the eyebrows) that require a precise and concentrated dose.

Dysport® tends to spread more after injection, covering a larger area from each injection point. That makes it well-suited for treating areas like the forehead, where you want an even result across a wider surface.

Onset of Results

This is one of the most noticeable differences from the patient's point of view. With BOTOX®, results typically begin appearing around five to seven days post-injection.

Dysport® is often reported to take effect faster. Many people start to see results within two to three days after treatment. Both reach their full effect in roughly two weeks.

Dosing

BOTOX® and Dysport® units are not interchangeable. It takes roughly 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport® to achieve the same effect as 1 unit of BOTOX®.

Despite the higher unit count, the total cost for a comparable treatment is usually similar because Dysport® is priced lower per unit.

FDA-Approved Uses

BOTOX® is FDA approved to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines, crow's feet, forehead lines and vertical neck bands (platysma bands).

Dysport® is FDA approved to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines.

Our Newest Neurotoxin Option: Daxxify®

If the biggest item on your wrinkle-reducing wishlist is longevity, there is a third FDA-approved neurotoxin to consider.

Daxxify® is one of the newest additions to the neurotoxin category. It uses a peptide-based formulation that's free of human serum albumin and animal-based components, and it has been shown to last up to six months for some patients.

Daxxify® may be a good fit if you're an experienced neurotoxin user and you like results but wish they lasted longer. You also may prefer Daxxify® if you'd like to keep the maintenance requirements of your treatment to a minimum.

Because we offer all three neurotoxins at Symmetry Med Spa, you will not automatically receive the same solution as another patient. You and your Master Injector will explore the options together and choose the product that is the best fit for your goals.

Find Out Which Neurotoxin Is Right for You

The best way to know whether to choose BOTOX® or Dysport® is to talk it through with a Master Injector who has the training and experience to guide you. Symmetry Med Spa by Bengtson Center has earned our reputation as one of Michigan's best medical spas by creating exceptional patient experiences, starting with your consultation and complimentary VISIA® Skin Analysis.

Call us at 616-202-5640 or book your consultation online to get started. We welcome patients from across Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kalamazoo, Lansing and all of West Michigan.