Written and reviewed by Dr. Carmen Kavali, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Dr. Teri N. Moak, MD, Fellowship-Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon.
Botox vs. Dysport: Understanding Your Options for Wrinkle Relaxing
Dynamic expression lines—such as forehead creases, frown lines (“11s”), and crow’s feet—form as facial muscles contract over time. Both Botox® and Dysport® are FDA-approved neuromodulators that temporarily relax these muscles, softening wrinkles and preventing deeper folds. While the two products share many similarities, subtle differences in formulation, diffusion, onset, and dosing can make one option a better fit for your goals.
At Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center in Sandy Springs, our board-certified surgeons help patients from Buckhead and Atlanta choose the most effective, natural-looking wrinkle relaxer for their facial anatomy and aesthetic priorities. Here’s what to know before your next treatment.
- What Botox and Dysport are, and how they work
- Differences in onset, spread, and longevity
- Typical dosing and cost considerations
- Ideal treatment areas for each
- How to choose the right product for your needs
What Are Botox and Dysport?
Both Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are purified forms of botulinum toxin type A. They block acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, reducing the contractions that form dynamic wrinkles.
Key similarities:
- FDA-approved for wrinkle treatment in the upper face
- Delivered through quick, precise injections with minimal discomfort
- No downtime—return to normal activity immediately
- Results are temporary and fully reversible in skilled hands
Onset and Diffusion: What to Expect
| Feature | Botox | Dysport |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | 3–5 days | 2–3 days |
| Peak Effect | 2 weeks | 2 weeks |
| Diffusion | Localized spread | Slightly wider spread |
| Units | Standardized dosing | ≈2.5× Botox units |
- Onset: Dysport may produce visible smoothing 1–2 days sooner than Botox.
- Diffusion: Dysport spreads slightly more, ideal for broad areas like the forehead; Botox provides more precision for smaller zones.
Duration of Effect
Both products typically last 3–4 months, though metabolism and muscle strength affect longevity. Some patients report Botox lasting up to 5 months, while Dysport may wear off around 3 months. Maintenance schedules are customized to your natural rhythm.
Dosing and Cost Considerations
Dysport units are not interchangeable with Botox. Typical conversion ratios range from 2–3 units of Dysport per 1 unit of Botox.
| Treatment Area | Typical Botox Dose | Equivalent Dysport Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Glabella (“11s”) | 20 units | 50 units |
| Crow’s Feet (both sides) | 24 units | 60 units |
| Forehead Lines | 10–20 units | 30–50 units |
Pricing is often per unit. While Dysport units cost less, the higher quantity typically evens out the total price. You’ll receive transparent, personalized pricing during your consultation.
Ideal Treatment Areas
- Botox: Great for precise, small zones like the glabella or crow’s feet.
- Dysport: Ideal for larger muscle groups like the forehead where broader diffusion is beneficial.
Many patients combine both for optimal results tailored to each area.
Choosing the Right Neuromodulator
Key considerations when choosing between Botox and Dysport include:
- Desired Onset: Dysport may act faster before events.
- Area of Treatment: Dysport for broader zones, Botox for precision areas.
- Budget: Compare total units and longevity, not just per-unit cost.
- Experience: Past response to either product helps guide selection.
Ultimately, results depend more on injector skill than the product itself. Dr. Carmen Kavali and Dr. Teri Moak are trusted experts who individualize dosing for natural movement and balance.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Consultation: We’ll review your goals, assess muscle activity, and design a custom plan.
- Injection: Tiny micro-injections take just 10–20 minutes.
- Post-Care: Avoid pressure, exercise, and lying flat for 24 hours; mild redness may occur.
Results appear gradually over 7–14 days, with follow-up adjustments as needed.
Safety and Side Effects
Both Botox and Dysport are FDA-approved with proven safety profiles. Temporary side effects may include:
- Mild redness, bruising, or tenderness at injection sites
- Temporary headache or tightness
- Rare, mild asymmetry—correctable in follow-up
Choosing a board-certified injector ensures safe, precise, and artful outcomes.
Why Patients Trust Monarch Plastic Surgery
- Board-Certified Expertise: Decades of experience with neuromodulator precision.
- Personalized Care: Each plan is tailored to your expression and anatomy.
- All-Female Leadership: A compassionate team that understands natural aesthetic goals.
- Accredited Facility: Northside Hospital affiliation with advanced safety standards.
Whether you choose Botox, Dysport, or a blend of both, you’ll enjoy beautifully natural results from trusted experts.
Begin Your Journey to Smoother, More Youthful Lines
Dynamic wrinkles no longer have to define your expression. Experience the art and science of wrinkle relaxation at Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center in Sandy Springs, serving patients throughout Buckhead and Atlanta. Schedule your consultation or call (404) 250-3333 today.
The Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center team proudly serves Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and the greater Atlanta community. Led by board-certified surgeons Dr. Carmen Kavali and Dr. Teri Moak, our all-female leadership team is dedicated to providing safe, compassionate, and innovative aesthetic care. We specialize in personalized surgical and non-surgical treatments that help patients look and feel their very best.