By Sadi Erfani, MD

“What is the difference between Botox, Dysport and Xeomin?” and “Which is the best one?” are two questions about facial injectables that commonly get asked. Botox is a leading cosmetic treatment that drastically reduces the appearance of crow’s feet, lines on the forehead and frown lines. With US FDA approval and launch of this revolutionary anti-aging product in 1989, millions continue to turn to Botox over 20 years later as part of their aesthetic regimen for looking younger. However, two other companies have entered the market as well and are having great success as well, Dysport (US FDA approved 2009) and Xeomin (US FDA approved 2011).

Botox, Dysport and Xeomin Similarities

It is understandable how one would want to know about Botox, Dysport and Xeomin when trying to determine which treatment is best for them. All three are effective treatments that originate from the same source bacterium, clostridium botulinum. They are synthesized as botulinum toxin type A, the paralyzing agent or neurotoxin that is administered. Each has been consistently proven in clinical trials and then worldwide application. The result is almost always the same. Each injectable temporarily paralyzes the targeted muscle areas on the face to relax and ease out the appearance of wrinkles. Because of their proven abilities, each is often paired with a dermal filler like Restylane or Juvederm that results in dramatic facial rejuvenation. This procedure is known as a liquid facelift. However, what follows is where the differences become apparent.

Differences Of Botox, Dysport and Xeomin

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Xeomin is a purified neurotoxin. It is referred to as a ‘naked’ molecule because there are no additive surface proteins, just the botulinum toxin. This solitary agent migrates further and faster to effectively work upon all facial areas upon injection. There is less risk of an allergic reaction or rejection for the client from the absence of protein additives. In comparison, Botox and Dysport are considered ‘heavier’ because they contain added proteins. These proteins are for protection and are clustered around the botulinum to enable them to last a little longer. However, the clinical argument is that these protective proteins may also shield the active part of the neurotoxin thereby minimizing product effectiveness.

One of the noted benefits of Dysport is that it spreads a little more than Botox and it is commonly used by patients who have stopped responding to Botox. It is also injected at a different strength and affects a slightly larger area than Botox and Xeomin. It has been reported that Dysport typically takes two to three days until the effects of the treatment are seen. Botox takes seven to ten days while Xeomin takes five to six days. Dysport may be the best option in areas where several injections are needed because of its easy spreading to cover a greater area on the face. In the areas where the spread needs to be minimized, Botox may be the best option to concentrate on deeper wrinkling. Over time with different Botox, Dysport and Xeomin injections, clients begin to favor which treatment works best for them.

Conclusion

By now, most clients who have undergone anti-aging treatments are familiar with Botox. However, with the emergence of Dysport and Xeomin clients have benefited with additional choices and competitive pricing. When initially deciding on which neurotoxin to inject or switch to consult with and choose a highly qualified medical professional. The best choice would be a plastic surgeon or highly experienced RN to conduct the injection. Botox, Dysport and Xeomin differ in administration technique and their skills are necessary to determine the proper dosage in order to achieve the best result.

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By Sadi Erfani, MD

What Is A Liquid Facelift?

A liquid facelift is a popular aesthetic treatment that rejuvenates the face and restores a visibly youthful appearance with no surgery. The treatment is accomplished with injections of dermal fillers like Restylane, Juvederm or Perlane and a Botox, Xeomin or Dysport neurotoxin. Liquid face lifts are usually performed for those not quite ready for facelift surgery (typically aged in their late 30’s to mid 40’s), has concerns about operative surgery or is too busy to spare downtime recovery from a facelift.

What Does A Liquid Facelift Do?

A liquid facelift will dramatically enhance loss of fat and volume of the face. Laxness of the skin, shallow cheeks, the appearance of lines on the forehead known as Glabellar lines and wrinkles are common areas attended to with this type of treatment.
A liquid facelift will speedily:

– Plump up the cheek areas
– Correct distinct lining around the mouth known as Marionette lines
– Reduce facial wrinkles
– Fill mild to moderate line, furrow and groove depressions
– Provide smoother appearing looking skin overall

What Is The Difference Between A Liquid Facelift And Surgery?

A liquid facelift is not really a true facelift. It is an excellent treatment involving injectable fillers to rapidly help correct an often tired and gaunt looking appearance for someone not yet readily displaying the progressive signs of more advanced aging. The risk and downtime are minimal. An average session lasts only about 45 minutes. The effect can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months depending on the client skin condition and level of treatment.

True facelift surgery will tighten, lift and restructure deep layers of the skin that have begun to soften and sag with age. Rarely are people thrilled at the idea of having facelift surgery performed, especially if one is older. However, one can expect to enjoy long term and excellent results with skilled nipping and tucking from a highly qualified plastic surgeon (typically 7 years on average). Attention is directed to the bone structure, fat deposits, muscle position and overall skin laxity on the underlying areas of both the face and neck.

Both of these procedures help to fulfill one’s facial rejuvenation goals and fall within the categorical area of plastic surgery, yet they are two separate treatments that produce different results. Often, these procedures are combined to complement each other.

Conclusion

The facial aging process involves the tissue softening of the face that will slowly begin to descend downward, development of wrinkling skin and loss of facial volume especially in the cheek, temple and jowl areas.

A liquid facelift can be ideal for patients that can or want to hold off on surgical intervention. Adding volume through the use of fillers to specific areas of the face can improve and refresh one’s look. However, it is important to determine if one is the right candidate for treatment. Getting expert opinion from a highly qualified plastic surgeon will yield tremendous insight, a desired solution and possible alternatives to consider.

The post A Little Young For Facelift Surgery? Consider A Liquid Facelift. appeared first on Erfani, Sadi (drsadierfani.com).