Botulinum toxin type A is an injectable neurotoxin, better known under brand names such as Botox Cosmetic®, Dysport®, and Xeomin®. Neurotoxin treatments are the most popular single cosmetic procedure in the U.S. and are mainly used to smooth dynamic wrinkles, or those wrinkles that form as a result of facial movements like frowning, squinting, smiling, and other expressions we tend to make day after day. Treatment works by blocking nerve impulses to the muscles, causing them to relax. As a result, your expressions soften, and the dynamic wrinkles are greatly reduced.
Think of neurotoxin as a shield between the brain and the muscle so that, even if your brain is telling a muscle to move–whether this is on purpose or because of misfiring neurons–the muscle will stay rested for period of 3-4 months.
What is the Difference Between
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin?
Now you know that each of these products contain the same active ingredient: botulinum toxin type A, and are designed to address the same types of wrinkles and other cosmetic concerns. So how are they different?
The main distinction lies in their formulation, which influences the dosage used, how much the product spreads, and how quickly a patient might see the results. For example, Botox Cosmetic is formulated with an accompanying protein. Dysport contains a smaller version of a similar protein, while Xeomin doesn’t contain an accompanying protein at all. All three products are FDA approved and have been used safely and effectively for years.
Which of these products is best for you will depend on your unique anatomy and your goals.
How does it work?
Botox-type injections blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles.
The injected muscle will stay rested for period of 3-4 months, which in turn will smooth and soften the wrinkles, as well as provide rested, stress-free look for your face.
◆ Provide restful and stress free facial appearance
◆ Treat “gummy” smile
◆ Lift the brows and prevent hooded eyelids
◆ Prevent ptosis
◆ Severe underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis)
◆ Treat pebble chin
◆ Results last 3 to 6 months, average 3 to 4 months
How Long Do the Results Last?
The effects from Neurotoxin will last 3 to 6 months and will vary depending on the patient, the area treated, and the product used muscle action slowly returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again.
The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are shrinking.
What are the side effects?
You may have some temporary side effects after a Botox injection. These could include:
Bruising. This is the most common side effect and will go away.
Headaches. Typically, these are rare and end in 24 to 48 hours.
Eyelid drooping. This happens with only a small percentage of people and usually goes away within 3 weeks. It usually happens when the Botox moves around, so don’t rub the treated area.
Crooked smile or drooling
Eye dryness or severe tearing
Mild pain or swelling around the injection site
Flu-like symptoms or a general unwell feeling. Highly unlikely
Upset stomach
Numbness
Weakness in nearby muscles
Who Should Not Get Botox?
People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological disease shouldn’t use Botox. Because Botox doesn’t work for all wrinkles, check with a doctor first. You shouldn’t have Botox shots if you’re allergic to cow’s milk protein. You should avoid getting vaccines or taking antibiotics for two weeks before and after Botox injection.
How is the Neurotoxin procedure done?
Getting Botox takes only a few minutes. You won’t need anesthesia. The provider uses a small needle to inject Botox into specific muscles with only minor discomfort.
Step one: Consultation
Step two: Evaluation and Medical History Review.
Order approval by the doctor. Administration of Botox. Discussion of After Care.Two week follow up
It generally takes 7 to 14 days to take full effect. It’s best to avoid alcohol starting at least 1 week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks before treatment to help prevent bruising.
Avoid rubbing the injection site for 24 hours so you don’t spread the Botox to another area. It is recommended to stay upright for 4 hours after treatment and to take a day off from exercising.