Botox & Dysport

The injection of Botox and Dysport are safe, non-surgical techniques for reducing the appearance of selected facial wrinkles. The most popular facial sites treated with Botox and Dysport include the transverse wrinkles of the forehead, the crow’s feet adjacent to the eyes, and the “eleven line” located between the eyebrows. Botox and Dysport can also be used to treat platysmal bands in the neck, the “gummy” smile, excessive wrinkles on the chin and lips, and hyperhidrosis, a condition of excessive sweating in the armpit.

Botox and Dysport work by interfering with the contraction of the mimetic muscles. These muscles contribute to the formation of facial expression by exerting tension on the skin. Excessive actions of these muscles form wrinkles that can make us look angry or tired. Selective weakening of these muscles by Botox or Dysport contributes to the improvement in facial appearance.

At Horizons Plastic Surgery, the patient’s experience begins with a thorough evaluation of their facial anatomy and the development of a precise treatment plan. The injection of Botox or Dysport takes just a few minutes and the patient may return to work immediately. Relaxation of the muscles is usually apparent in three to four days. The muscle regains its normal capacity to contract in three or four months and the wrinkle returns to its original state. Complications associated with the use of Botox and Dysport are infrequent. These may include mild swelling or bruising at the injection site, asymmetry, difficulty swallowing, a droopy eyelid, partial correction of the wrinkle, infection, and possible headache.

Using Botox or Dysport to successfully improve facial appearance is dependent upon the precise placement of the drug into the muscle that is causing the problem. A comprehensive knowledge of facial anatomy is essential to obtaining the optimal outcome.

Dr. Wetherington is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is a former President of the Georgia Society of Plastic Surgeons.