Dysport Preparation 101: A Comprehensive Guide For Beginners

David Fuller

Last Updated On: May 6, 2024

Did you know Dysport has emerged as a preferred choice for those seeking a natural-looking enhancement? This botulinum toxin type A, known for its fast-acting and long-lasting results, offers a non-invasive solution to smooth out frown lines between the brows.

Preparing Dysport involves meticulous attention to dilution and administration techniques, which are critical for achieving desired outcomes. Whether for cosmetic enhancements or managing medical conditions, understanding the basics of Dysport preparation can significantly impact its efficacy and safety. 

In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of Dysport preparation, from dilution to administration, providing beginners with the knowledge needed to approach this treatment with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Dysport, a botulinum toxin type A, is used to smooth moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows, providing a natural-looking reduction in facial lines.
• Properly preparing and administering Dysport is crucial for its efficacy and safety, emphasizing the importance of choosing a qualified provider.
• Dysport offers both cosmetic advantages for aging signs and therapeutic uses for muscle spasticity and movement disorders.
• The procedure involves minimal discomfort. Results become visible within 2-4 days and peak around 10-14 days after treatment.
• Common side effects are mild and temporary, but you must contact your provider for any unusual symptoms or concerns post-treatment.

Understanding Dysport

What Is Dysport?

Dysport is a prescription injection used primarily for aesthetic purposes, such as improving the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows, known as glabellar lines, in adults under 65. 

It’s part of a class of medications that function as neuromuscular blockers. These medications temporarily reduce muscle activity by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction​​​​.

How Does Dysport Work?

Dysport works by blocking the signal from the nerves to the muscles, reducing muscle activity and temporarily preventing contraction of the muscles that cause frown lines. The injection is administered directly into the muscles responsible for these frown lines. This process temporarily improves the appearance of these lines by making them less pronounced​​.

The Benefits of Dysport

Cosmetic Advantages

The primary cosmetic benefit of Dysport is its ability to smooth out moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows without altering the face’s overall appearance. 

Patients opting for Dysport injections seek a natural-looking reduction in these lines, aiming for a more relaxed and refreshed appearance. Many individuals appreciate the non-surgical solution to reducing visible signs of aging, especially in the facial area​​.

Therapeutic Uses

Beyond its cosmetic applications, Dysport is also used for therapeutic purposes. It can treat various conditions related to muscle spasticity and movement disorders. For instance, it’s approved for treating increased muscle stiffness in patients two years of age and older with upper and lower limb spasticity and adult cervical dystonia, a condition characterized by abnormal neck pain and movements. 

Preparing for Your First Dysport Treatment

Choosing the Right Provider

When deciding between Dysport and Botox for cosmetic treatments, selecting a qualified and experienced provider is crucial. Both treatments use botulinum toxin type A to paralyze facial muscles and smooth out wrinkles temporarily. Dysport spreads more easily, making it ideal for larger areas and often showing quicker results. 

Botox offers more precision for smaller, delicate areas. The choice between Dysport and Botox depends on individual needs and your provider’s advice. Always opt for a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or trained aesthetic nurse practitioner with extensive experience in these treatments​​.

Initial Consultation: Questions to Ask

During your initial consultation, please inquire about the provider’s qualifications, experience, and the number of Dysport treatments they have performed. Ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients to assess their work quality. Discuss your aesthetic goals and any medical conditions affecting the treatment outcome.

Before the Procedure

Pre-Treatment Dos and Don’ts

Before undergoing Dysport treatment, it is essential to follow any pre-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional to minimize the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome:

• Do inform your provider about all your medications and supplements, as some may need to be paused.
• Don’t take anti-inflammatory drugs or supplements that can increase bruising, like aspirin or fish oil, without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
• Do follow any specific pre-treatment skincare instructions given by your provider.
• Don’t consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment, as it can increase the risk of bruising.
• Do arrive at the clinic with a clean face, without makeup or lotions.

These instructions include avoiding certain medications or supplements that can increase bruising risk, such as aspirin or fish oil, and informing your provider about allergies or medical conditions.

What to Expect During the Consultation

In your consultation, your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical background, converse about your cosmetic aspirations, and detail the Dysport procedure, encompassing its advantages and possible side effects. Additionally, they may inspect the treatment region to gauge the suitable dosage and injection points for attaining your desired outcomes, offering insights into what to expect with Dysport.

The Day of the Treatment

Pre-Procedure Checklist

Before your Dysport treatment, ensure the following for a smoother experience and optimal results:

• Book your treatment at least two to three weeks before any major events to allow Dysport’s full effect to manifest.
• Abstain from smoking and alcohol for a week prior, as they can hinder skin repair.
• Begin taking arnica or bromelain supplements a few days before to reduce the likelihood of bruising.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements two days before your session, like aspirin or omega-3 fatty acids. Consult with your primary care physician if these are taken for a chronic condition.
• Consider having an extra exercise session a day or several hours before your appointment, as you’ll need to limit physical activity immediately after.
• Arrive with a cleansed face, free of any cosmetics​​.

During the Procedure: What Happens?

The Dysport procedure is quick and efficient, and you might start seeing the effects, addressing the concern of when does it start working within 2-4 days after the treatment. You will be seated comfortably as the dermatologist cleans the treatment area and marks the sites for injection. You might be asked to make certain facial expressions to better target the muscles involved. 

The injections are performed with a very fine needle, causing minimal discomfort, which means pain medication is generally unnecessary. However, options to numb the area, like ice packs or topical anesthetics, are available if you have a low pain tolerance.

Post-Treatment Care

Immediate Aftercare Tips

Post-treatment, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure the best results and minimize side effects:

• Avoid strenuous workouts for 24 hours, as exercise can increase inflammation.
• Ice packs can reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply a covered ice pack for 15 minutes several times a day.
• Sleep with your head elevated to lessen swelling. You can use extra pillows or rest on a recliner for this purpose​​.

Long-Term Care for Lasting Results

For long-term care and to ensure lasting results from your Dysport treatment, consider the following tips:

• Regular follow-up treatments, as recommended by your provider, are recommended since the effects of Dysport are temporary, generally lasting between 12 and 16 weeks. Many find that the need for retreatment extends over time as they “unlearn” the facial expressions contributing to these lines​​.
• Maintain a healthy skincare routine with sunscreen to protect the treated areas from sun damage.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall skin health.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you maximize the benefits of your Dysport treatment and enjoy your rejuvenated appearance for as long as possible.

Managing Expectations

Realistic Outcomes

Dysport treatments aim to give you a more youthful and relaxed appearance by smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines caused by muscle contractions. The primary target areas include:

• the forehead
• glabella (between the eyebrows)
• crow’s feet
• bunny lines (on the sides of the nose)
• sometimes the jawline

It’s essential to have realistic expectations and understand that Dysport treats dynamic wrinkles (caused by muscle movement) rather than static wrinkles, which are visible even when the face is at rest​​.

When to Expect Visible Improvements

Typically, you may start noticing the effects of Dysport within 2-4 days after treatment, with the peak results becoming visible within 10-14 days. The time it takes for Dysport to work and the duration of its effects can vary between individuals, influenced by factors like metabolism, muscle strength, and lifestyle. It’s recommended to follow up with maintenance treatments every 3-4 months​​​​for optimal results.

Safety and Side Effects

Common Side Effects

Dysport injections are generally well-tolerated, with side effects being mostly mild and temporary. Commonly reported side effects include injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or bruising, which typically resolve within a few days. 

Some patients may experience a headache or muscle weakness in the treated area. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions closely to minimize discomfort and enhance the treatment’s effectiveness​​​​.

When to Contact Your Provider

While serious complications are rare, contacting your provider is crucial if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing, which could indicate the spread of toxin effects. 

Additionally, suppose you notice any asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the results after the peak effect period (2-3 weeks). In that case, it’s advisable to consult your provider. They may recommend a follow-up treatment to adjust the results or address concerns​​​​.

Conclusion

Dysport treatments offer a versatile and effective solution for those looking to reduce visible signs of aging or manage certain muscle-related conditions. The key to maximizing results is thorough preparation, selecting an experienced provider, and adhering to pre and post-treatment care instructions. With realistic expectations and regular maintenance, individuals can enjoy a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

FAQs

• What is Dysport?

Dysport is a prescription injection that temporarily reduces muscle activity to help smooth out moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.

• How does Dysport work?

It works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, thus preventing the muscles that cause frown lines from contracting, leading to a smoother appearance.

• What are the main benefits of Dysport?

The main benefits include a natural-looking reduction in frown lines, application in cosmetic enhancements, and therapeutic uses for muscle spasticity and movement disorders.

• How long does it take to see results from Dysport?

Results from Dysport can start to be noticed within 2-4 days post-treatment, with peak results typically visible within 10-14 days.

• What are the common side effects of Dysport?

Common side effects include mild and temporary reactions at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, or bruising, with some patients experiencing headaches or muscle weakness.

References

DysportUSA. (n.d.). Dysport® Official Site. Retrieved from https://www.dysportusa.com 

American Academy of Facial Esthetics. (n.d.). Dysport® Overview. Retrieved from https://www.facialesthetics.org/patient-info/facial-esthetics/facial-esthetic-products/dysport/ 

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). AbobotulinumtoxinA Injection. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19156-abobotulinumtoxina-injection 

Dysport. (n.d.). Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxinA). Retrieved from https://www.dysport.com/en-us