4 Ways Dysport Could Be Better than Botox

Dysport, the latest injectable wrinkle treatment, has finally arrived as the first true competitor to Botox. And already the RealSelf community is finding out from our docs just how Dysport might amount to serious competition to Botox.

It's still early in Dysport's run -- very early, we should stress -- but here's what we've been hearing from medical experts about what Dysport could do better than Botox.

1. Dysport could act faster. 

Botox typically takes 3-7 days to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and lines. According to the doctors on RealSelf, Dysport could start to show its effect in as little as a day. Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Carmen Kavali, who has administered Dysport injections, has observed results "as early as 1-2 days after treatment."

2. Dysport could last longer.

In most studies, Dysport is lasting about 3-4 months, about the same as Botox. But, as our medical experts point out, some studies in Europe show Dysport might last even longer than Botox. It hasn't been out long enough here to know yet -- but you can be sure RealSelfers and docs will share their experiences with the community.

3. Dysport could cost less.

Many doctors are eager to use new injectables "which can realistically challenge the virtual Allergan monopoly over the market," states Dr. Otto Placik, a Chicago plastic surgeon. To gain market share, new competitors may undercut Botox pricing. Dallas plastic surgeon Sam Jejurikar, MD reveals that the cost per bottle "to physicians" for Dysport is currently "about 5-10% less than for Botox." And Dr. Kamran Jafri says the way Dysport has been dispensed in the UK has resulted in even steeper discounts to Botox. However, Dr. Placik reminds that emerging competitors to Botox have benefited from Allergan price increases, suggesting that no company wants to trigger an all-out price war that significantly drives down the cost of a wrinkle treatment.

You can always keep an eye out for Dysport (and Botox) cost in your area via our pricing pages.

4. Dysport could "rock your upper forehead."

So says Dr. Joel Schlessinger of Omaha, who has done clinical trials of Dysport, treating over 1500 patients over the past five years. According to other docs, Dysport diffuses over a wider area when injected and, as such, might be able to treat upper forehead lines more effectively than Botox. Other MDs, however, point out clinical studies haven't been totally conclusive on this point -- yet.

And one other thing you might want to know ...

As Dr. Kamran Jafri of Manhattan puts it, "Anyone heard of Purtox? If not, you will soon." It's the next Botulinum toxin anticipated to clear the FDA and hit the U.S. wrinkle treatment market. PurTox will no doubt start a new debate right here on RealSelf.

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