It’s not just about Botox anymore – Dysport has become a massive favorite among our Tampa Bay patients for its smooth, fast-acting results.
But how do you choose? Are they the same thing? (Hint: No.)
At Living Young Center, we believe an educated patient is a happy patient. Whether you are prepping for a Valentine’s date night in St. Pete or just want to look refreshed for wedding season, here is your definitive guide to the battle of the neuromodulators.
Not All Toxins Are Created Equal: 5 Key Differences
Both Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxinA) are neuromodulators that relax the muscles causing wrinkles, but they behave differently once injected. Think of it like Coke vs. Pepsi – similar, but distinct.
1. Onset Time (The “Wedding Week” Factor)
- Botox: Takes a “slow and steady” approach. You’ll see initial results in 5-7 days, with full results at 14 days.
- Dysport: The sprinter of the group. Many patients see results in as little as 2-3 days. A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal confirmed that while both products are effective, Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) may offer a quicker onset of action for some patients compared to Botox.
- Verdict: If you have an event this weekend, choose Dysport.
2. The “Spread”
- Botox: Stays exactly where we put it. It has a tight radius of effect, making it ideal for precision areas like deep “11s” (frown lines) or a Lip Flip.
- Dysport: Has a slightly softer, wider spread. This makes it incredible for large surface areas like the forehead, creating a smooth, “airbrushed” look rather than a stiff one.
3. Duration
Both products typically last 3–4 months. However, some of our high-metabolism patients (runners, athletes) report getting an extra few weeks out of Dysport.
4. Units Needed
This is where it gets confusing.
- Botox: 1 unit \= 1 unit.
- Dysport: is measured differently. It takes about 3 units of Dysport to equal the strength of 1 unit of Botox.
- Don’t panic if you hear “50 units” of Dysport – it’s the same strength as roughly 17 units of Botox!
5. Cost Per Area
Because of the unit conversion, the price often evens out. Dysport is cheaper per unit, but you need more of it. At Living Young Center, the total cost for a treated area (like your forehead) is usually comparable between the two.
Pricing Transparency: What Will It Cost?
We hate hidden fees. At our locations in Seminole, Palm Harbor, St. Pete, and Odessa, we price by the unit so you only pay for what you need.
Estimated Units Per Area (Botox Scale):
- Forehead Lines: 10–15 units
- Frown Lines (“11s”): 12–18 units
- Crow’s Feet: 12–20 units
Check our Specials Page for current new patient offers!
Quiz: Which Injectable is Right for You?
1. When do you need to look perfect?
2. What is your biggest concern?
- A) Deep, specific grooves between my brows. (Choose Botox)
- B) A wide, crinkly forehead. (Choose Dysport)
3. Have you felt “heavy” or “frozen” before?
- A) Yes, I hate that feeling. (Try Dysport for a softer feel)
- B) No, I love the “smooth as glass” look. (Stick with Botox)
The “Frozen Face” Fear & The Living Young Philosophy
The number one fear we hear? “I don’t want to look frozen.”
We get it. We’ve all seen that celebrity. But a frozen face isn’t caused by the product – it’s caused by the injector.
At Living Young Center, our team is led by Carissa Alinat, PhD, APRN, a nationally recognized Master Injector voted one of the “Top 100 Best Aesthetic Injectors in America.” Our philosophy is “Natural Results.” We use these products to soften negative expressions (like looking angry or tired) while keeping the positive ones (like smiling with your eyes).
Ready to Refresh?
Don’t guess with your face. Whether you choose Botox or Dysport, the most important decision is the hand holding the syringe.
Schedule your consultation at one of our 4 convenient Tampa Bay locations:
Call us at 727-319-6884 or book online to erase the wrinkles and keep the expression.
