According to the manufacturer, the most common side effects of Dysport include bruising at the injection site, upper respiratory infections, headaches, a sore throat, injection-site pain, eyelid swelling, and nausea.
“Less commonly seen are drooping of the brow and upper eyelid, which are temporary and resolve as the product dissipates,” says Dr. Christopher T. Maloney Jr., a plastic surgeon in Tucson. A droopy eyelid can be improved with over-the-counter Naphcon A eye drops, but they shouldn’t be used for more than 4-5 days.
“Ensuring that your provider is well trained in anatomy and how to read the dynamic changes in muscle with expression is paramount to optimal results and avoiding complications,” Dr. Cho underscores.
Dysport may trigger an allergic reaction for some people, since it contains a protein found in cow’s milk. (Botox and Xeomin don’t contain cow's milk protein.) As doctors on RealSelf have pointed out, this is not the same thing as lactose intolerance. If you have a cow’s milk allergy, talk to your doctor before considering Dysport.
Although very rare, the most serious side effects of botulinum toxin injections arise from the possibility of it spreading beyond the injection site and triggering symptoms like muscle weakness or spasms; double or blurred vision; and trouble speaking, swallowing, or breathing. Tell your doctor right away if you experience any unusual symptoms after your injections.
It’s important to work with a board-certified physician, physician’s assistant, nurse, or another experienced healthcare provider with a deep working knowledge of facial anatomy, to help ensure you receive appropriately placed injections and natural-looking results.
Related: Injectable Bruises? Been There. Here’s How to Handle Them Without Hiding Out.
