We're sure you've heard that Dysport™ - or - Reloxin® a new, cheaper way to lose the lines and wrinkles on your face - is coming soon to the United States. In fact, we'll be offering it here at Le Beau Visage.
Medicis has officially reported that Dysport™ is indeed making its way to the United States: Click here for press release. Dysport™ will have the same active ingredient as Botox® - will be about a third of the price - but it's about a third of the strength too - and there are other (important!) ways these products differ. Read on.
Dysport™, or Reloxin® - is similar to Botox® in the treatment of glabellar lines and facial wrinkles. This new treatment of Dysport™ was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late April 2009; and also for pain in relation to cervical dystonia in adults. The wait has been a long time coming with a rejection years ago from the FDA; lacking additional studies. Dysport™ or Reloxin® has been used in Europe for years with great success; but just recently has been used and tested in the United States and finally has been approved for use here by physicans.
So what's the difference?
1) SIDE EFFECTS: In the clinical studies, Dysport™ is shown to “spread” quicker and farther in surrounding tissue than Botox®. Theoretically - this would work great for larger areas like the forehead, but might not be so good if used around the eyes, or between the eyebrows because this spread of the toxin could do more than 'relax the lines' - it could cause some negative side effects - like blurry vision or droopy eyebrows or eyelids.
2) FAMILIARITY: We know what to expect with Botox®. We know how much to use, where best to use it - we have EXPERIENCE with it. On the other hand - Dysport™ is diluted in comparison to Botox®, and may cause some confusion for physicians not as familiar with how many units to inject. As an advanced Allergan Injector - we are very comfortable when using Botox® with regard to how much to use, and where to use it to maximize the results (both physical results, and cost) for the patient. Which brings us too..
3) COST: While it might be cheaper for the customer, it will take more units, and thus more cost - to realize the same effects that we have achieved with Botox®. So, sure! You may pay less - but you will likely have to purchase more (units), or return more often for treatment (frequency).
3) DURATION: Dysport™ has been noted to have less of a protein amount than Botox®, making Botox® last longer in most cases.
5) TESTING: At this point, the safety of Dysport™ is still being tested regarding allergies and infections.
Hey - we know competition is always a good thing and making sure people have a choice is so very important. That's why we do plan on giving our patients the choice when the time comes. We are assuming that time will tell on the results and outcome of Dysport™, or Reloxin® in comparison to the tried-and-true Botox®.
History and experience is a good thing - and there is definitely great history with Botox® as over 3 million people use it to relax their wrinkles each year.
So, if you experience “crows feet”, “frown lines” or "elevens" - contact us for a free consultation and see which direction you should go. We are firm believers that each patient is case by case, and requires a special prescription for optimal beauty. We care about our clients and patients - and want to keep you informed above all else.
In conclusion, while it's great that there's a cheaper alternative to Botox®, we like to keep in mind that cheaper isn't always better; and in fact - cheaper isn't always cheaper!
For now, we're sticking with our own experience here at Le Beau Visage - but are here to help you stay informed of the differences, risks and details before choosing any injectable. We'll be giving YOU, our patient - the choice - but we want to make sure it will be an informed decision.
