Mandy Lynn Warthan, MD

While Dysport does start working within 48-72 hours, it really takes almost 2 weeks to see maximum results.  I would wait at least 2 weeks before you decide if it worked or not.  Sometimes you may need a little touch up if your muscles are really strong, and men have stronger muscles than women.  It is much easier to go back and add a little more if needed, than to do too much the first time.  I would rather be conservative with my patients.

The company who makes Dysport (Medicis) is offering a $75 rebate after your first Dysport treatment, and another $75 cash back rebate after your second Dysport treatment, for a total of $150 in rebates.  The first and second treatment must be spaced at least 3 months apart, and you need a receipt from the physician where you had your treatment to mail in.  Your dermatologist should be able to give you all of the details.  My patients have been receiving their rebates in the mail and are very excited about them!

FDA approval was obtained for Dysport in April of 2009.  I have used it on hundreds of patients for facial wrinkles and feel that is a very safe alternative to Botox.

If you have an olive complexion, you need to be extremely careful who does your laser resurfacing (Fraxel) treatments.  It can be used on someone with darker skin, however you must be cautious, because patients with darker skin are more likely to end up with hyperpigmentation (temporary darker discoloration) if a Fraxel treatment is too aggressive.  Make sure to ask your dermatologist about your concerns.

Fraxel will reduce the appearance of brown spots, however it will not totally eliminate them.  I use the alexandrite laser for treatment of brown age spots, and it gives excellent results.  Self tanner will definitely make brown spots show up more.