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So which do you prefer, Skippy of Jif?  What’s better, a Mercedes or a BMW?  You know the answer, the one you like is better.  But we can all agree that the world is a better place with choices.  For about twenty years, Botox was the only choice for patients in the USA.  But in May, 2009 the FDA approved a second choice- Dysport.  Botox and Dysport are very similar medications.  They both work by temporarily weakening muscles, which allows cosmetic surgeons to use them to reduce wrinkles and give you a more relaxed, pleasant expression. (as promised in my last post…in the future I’ll talk about other neat things that these amazing medications can do).

First some background.  Dysport is certainly the new kid on the block, but it is no beginner.  It has been used around the world for about the same length of time as Botox.  Even though patients have been treated with Botox and Dysport for about 20 years,  there are no really good research studies comparing the two.  As doctors we like to rely on science.  We just don’t have the answers yet when it comes to comparing the two medications side by side. 

However, I am pretty comfortable telling you the following “facts” about these two great treatments.

1. Both Botox and Dysport seem to be safe medications.  I believe that the majority of doctors who have experience with both feel they are equally safe.   I can tell you that my wife and I use both and we would recommend either to a family member.
2. Clearly,  both medications are effective at weakening muscles, and if administered correctly, both give very good results.
3. Botox takes effect in anywhere from one to fourteen days.  Dysport seems to work a little faster for most people.
4. Most doctors that I know feel that Dysport and Botox last about the same length of time in most patients.  Usually 3-4 months, but sometimes a little longer.
5. About half of my patients who have tried both, feel that they can not tell the difference between Botox and Dysport.
6. About 25% prefer Dysport and 25% prefer Botox.

So how do you decide?  There is no great answer.  Some people switch from one to the other because they have not been totally satisfied with their results (this is pretty rare).  Others choose one or the other because one of the companies is offering a rebate.  Some people are just adventurous and like to try something new.  Bottom line, as long as you see an experienced cosmetic surgeon, you are pretty likely to like either…. but you may prefer one over the other. 

Choosy mothers choose Jif.  Personally I like Skippy.

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If you would like to read more about Botox and Dysport, please visit our website here.
If you would like to read the FDA approved medication guides for these treatments…..  Botox or Dysport