Docs say to wait 2 wks for optimal results for Botox/Dysport. What happens next?

Question

Doctors advise patients to wait 2 weeks for optimal results for BOTOX/DYSPORT to take effect. After 2 wks when it sets into a person's frown lines and wrinkles, does the Botox/Dysport stay in place freezing the muscle for a period of the stated 3~6 months with optimal strength from the 2-week mark, or does the 2 week period signify the time-frame when the Botox/Dysport actually begin to slowly lose potency? Can I expect my skin to look wrinkle-free for 3~6 months as it does in the 2-week mark?

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Dysport generally starts to work a bit quicker than Botox, day 3-4, but doesn't quite last as long.  Botox starts to work around day 4-7 and lasts a bit longer.  Most neurotoxins will last about 3 months the first few times you use them.  In some people, it's a bit longer and in some people a bit less.  You should have a good effect for that time period and then the muscle action will slowly return.  It doesn't just quickly return overnight.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

After 2 weeks you should see the results of the botox.  no movement is not my goal when treating patients, i like natural improvement.  Depending on your goals is the type of results you should be looking for.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Sean R. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

The effects of botox will vary from patient to patient.  Usually the full effect is realized by 2 weeks and then there is a gradual recovery of the muscle action.  On average this takes about 3 months.  The muscle recovery is very natural over time.  I find that patients will frequently have an increasingly longer duration of the effect after repeated treatment sessions.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Every person is different on how fast the botox will take effect. Botox can take effect on a patient 3-5 days after the injection, but seeing full correction could take two weeks. After those two weeks, you typically go in for a follow up appointment (especially if you are new to Botox) to see if you need any additional injections and to make sure you have achieved the results you initially desired. From then on, you can expect the results to last until that 3-4 month mark when your Botox will subside.To be sure, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment.I hope this helps.

Jody Comstock, MD · Answer

This is an excellent question and one I hear
often in my practice. Both BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport do take a couple of weeks
to reach peak effectiveness, although some people start to notice results after
a few days. The results you see at 2 weeks are typically the ones you'll see
for the next few months. After about 3 or 4 months, results gradually start to
diminish. That's when most people chose to come in for their maintenance
injections. I hope this clears up your confusion!

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Botox and Dysport both start working after a few days, although Dysport starts working earlier. However, it is felt that "full effect" doesn't occur till at least 2 weeks, and so we generally don't want to reassess or treat again before then so as to make sure that enough time has been given. Both will last 3-4 months, although a bit longer with higher doses and with repeated treatments, and if injected by someone highly skilled in anatomy who knows exactly where to put it (e.g. dermatologist).

Adam L. Basner, MD · Answer

You should wait about 2 weeks before evaluating the results of BOTOX.  It will start to work within a few days, but you may not notice the full affect for about 2 weeks.  It should last a few months.

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all work by making muscles relax. Botox and Xeomin can be thought of as interchangeable, and in my hands they essentially are. They begin to have an effect at 3-5 days following the injections and have the maximum effect at two weeks. After that they gradually wear off over about three months, so that three months following your initial treatment you'll be back to your baseline level of movement. Dysport has a much quicker onset of action- you may see an effect the evening of your treatment. It will also last about three months. With all the effect gradually wears off- it's not like three months after your treatment a switch is thrown and you're back to baseline.

Richard Ort, MD · Answer

For most patients, the results of Botox are at their peak in the first 1-2 months after treatment. There is a gradual return of muscle activity after that time.  Most people will see persistent results for 3-4 months afterwards, sometimes longer.  Every patient is a unique individual and in some people the results last for a longer or shorter period than the average.  Most people are happy with a softening of the lines and will let the Botox effect gradually wear off over time before coming back for repeat treatment.  Some people want to keep all lines to a minimum and will return sooner for repeat injections.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

You will reach your optimal result 1-2 weeks.  That will be the peak.  The Botox/Xeomin/Dysport will gradually lose potency from that point on up to approx 3 months.  The Botox weakens the muscle...as you continue to use Botox, the muscle becomes weaker and the effects can last longer!

Docs say to wait 2 wks for optimal results for Botox/Dysport. What happens next?

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