How to Manage the 11 Most Common & Rare Side Effects of Dysport

Dysport is a popular cosmetic injectable that treats moderate to severe lines and wrinkles due to aging. However, as with any medical treatment, Dysport has some potential side effects that you should consider. This blog post will cover how to manage 11 possible side effects of Dysport treatment, both common and rare.

We'll also talk about the benefits of cosmetic Dysport. Let's get started!

What is Dysport?

Dysport is a prescription injection containing the active ingredient abobotulinumtoxinA, a bacterium botulinum toxin product and used to temporarily block muscle contractions to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. It is similar to Botox, but the two have some distinct differences. 

While Dysport is most familiar as a cosmetic injectable, it also has therapeutic uses for medical conditions such as cervical dystonia and Upper extremity spasticity (Spasms are often accompanied by stiff arm muscles, as well as trouble with arm coordination or function).

How Does Dysport Work?

Dysport is a botulinum toxin product type A injectable. It works by being injected into the affected muscles and then blocking nerve signals in the muscle, which results in a temporary reduction in muscle activity and contraction. The most common areas treated with Dysport are:

• Forehead lines.
• Crow's feet (lines around the eyes).
• Frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines).

Who is a Good Candidate for Dysport?

As we mentioned, Dysport is a popular injection used to improve the appearance of wrinkles. But who are the best candidates for treatment? 

The following are ideal individuals who may best benefit most from Dysport:

• Unhappy with the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, or crow's feet who do not want to undergo surgery.
• No known allergic reaction to botulinum toxin product or skin infection.
• Women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Adults 18 years and older.

What are the Side Effects of Dysport?

While receiving Dysport is generally safe and effective for wrinkle treatment, like most medical procedures, this treatment has the potential for side effects. Here are the 11 most common and rare side effects of Dysport and how to effectively manage them:

1. Mild Pain (Common)

Dysport may cause mild injection site pain and is a common side effect that usually resolves within a few days. 

However, if the pain at the injection site lasts more than a few days, there are things you can do to help ease the discomfort, such as:

• If your health care provider approves, take over-the-counter pain medication.
• Apply a cold compress to the injection site for 15-20 minutes to help reduce discomfort.

If the injection site pain is severe or worsens after treatment, contact your healthcare provider to address any concerns immediately.

2. Redness at the Injection Site (Common)

As with any injection, it is common to experience redness at the injection site and is generally nothing to worry about and should fade within a few days.

If it's bothersome, apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce the inflammation. If you are concerned about an injection site skin reaction, contact your doctor to discuss your symptoms.

3. Swelling (Common)

Swelling is also one of the common injection site reactions after receiving Dysport injections. You can help reduce injection site swelling by applying a cold compress to the injection site and should dissipate within a few days.

If swelling persists or worsens, contact your healthcare professional or seek emergency medical help.

4. Bruising (Common)

Bruising is another common side effect after Dysport injections and is typically mild but can last several days. To minimize bruising, avoid touching the area for several hours after injection. Also, avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption in the hours following treatment.

In addition, avoid taking blood thinners before your appointment, which can increase your risk of bruising.

5. Itching (Rare)

While itching is a common side effect reported after Dysport, it is considered rare. If you experience itching after your injection, you can try applying a topical antihistamine cream to the area to help relieve the itchiness if your provider approved topical cream.

If the itching persists or worsens, as with any rare side effect, tell your doctor immediately to ensure you are not experiencing an allergic reaction.

6. Flu-like Symptoms (Rare)

Some people may experience mild flu-like symptoms after Dysport injections, such as headache, nausea, body aches, difficulty breathing, or upper respiratory tract infection.

If you experience mild flu-like symptoms after your injection, drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible until the symptoms resolve. You can also take over-the-counter medicines to help relieve discomfort.

However, if the symptoms are severe or last more than a few days, as with any rare side effect, tell your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

7. Dry Mouth (Rare)

Dysport can cause dry mouth, a condition where your mouth doesn't make enough saliva. A dry mouth can lead to difficulty swallowing, eating, and talking.

To help relieve the symptoms of dry mouth, drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and tobacco. You can also suck on sugar-free hard candy or chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production. And be sure to contact your doctor immediately if symptoms worsen.

8. Trouble Swallowing (Rare)

Dysport can also cause trouble or difficulty swallowing food or liquids, which can lead to choking, coughing, and breathing difficulties. To help relieve symptoms, drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods.

As with any rare side effect, contact your doctor immediately to ensure you are not experiencing a life-threatening or medical emergency.

9. Drooping Eyelids (Rare)

Drooping eyelids are more serious and considered a rare side effect of Dysport that can occur if the injection is not performed correctly. In extremely rare circumstances, Botox can seep into the upper eyelid and paralyze the muscles that maintain the upper eyelid structure.

As with any rare side effect, contact your doctor immediately to ensure you are not experiencing a medical emergency.

10. Muscle Weakness (Rare)

Muscle weakness is a rare, potential side effect of Dysport that can occur if the injection is performed improperly and may include difficulty moving certain facial muscles or even paralysis in severe cases.

If you experience muscle weakness after your injection, try to rest as much as possible and avoid strenuous activity. You can also take an over-the-counter medication to help relieve any discomfort.

As with any rare side effect, contact your doctor immediately to ensure you are not experiencing a life-threatening or medical emergency.

11. Blurred Vision and Double Vision (Rare)

Blurred vision and double vision are the most serious and rarest side effects of Dysport that patients have reported and can stem from injections not performed correctly, which can cause Dysport to spread to the eye muscles.

As with any rare side effect, contact your doctor immediately to discuss your symptoms and ensure you are not experiencing a medical emergency.

What are the Benefits of Dysport Injection?

Before any cosmetic treatment, it's important to be informed of the risks and benefits. Now that we have covered some of the Dysport side effects, continue reading to learn about the many benefits cosmetic Dysport delivers:

• Wrinkles and fine lines: As we age, our skin will show more wrinkles and fine lines. Dysport can help reduce the appearance of these wrinkles and fine lines by relaxing the muscles in your face.
• Lift your eyebrows: Dysport can also help lift your eyebrows if they have drooped over time, making you appear more alert and youthful. 
• Improve the appearance of your jawline: Dysport can improve the appearance of your jawline by softening the overall appearance. 
• Reduce the appearance of acne scars: Dysport can reduce the appearance of acne scars, soften their appearance, and make them less noticeable.
• Improve the appearance of your smile: If you are self-conscious about your smile, Dysport can also help improve your smile by relaxing the muscles around your mouth. 
• Quick results: Dysport results are typically seen within 2 to 3 days and can last up to four months.
• Non-surgical procedure: Dysport is a non-surgical treatment with no incisions, no scarring, and little downtime. 
• Reduce excessive sweating: Therapeutic Dysport can help reduce excessive sweating by temporarily reducing the amount of sweat your body produces in specific areas.
• Affordable: Dysport is a relatively affordable treatment option compared to other cosmetic procedures, such as cosmetic surgery.

What to Avoid When Treated with Dysport?

There are a few things to avoid when undergoing Dysport treatment, including:  

• Refrain from taking aspirin or other blood thinners before injections as this can increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after treatment as it can also increase bruising and bleeding. 
• Avoid sun exposure or tanning before treatment, making the injectable less effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do side effects from Dysport last?

The answer to this question largely depends on the individual. For example, some people may experience mild side effects for a few days, while others may have them for weeks or even months.

If you are concerned about the side effects you are experiencing, be sure to talk to your doctor. As with any worsening or severe side effects, it's important to contact your doctor immediately to discuss your symptoms and ensure you are not experiencing a medical emergency. Your provider will be able to best advise you on how to manage symptoms, as well as if additional care is necessary.

Is Dysport safer than Botox?

There is no simple answer to this question. However, both Dysport and Botox, similar botulinum toxin products, are considered safe when used as directed by a qualified medical professional.

So, which is safer? Ultimately, you and your doctor can make the best decision based on your individual needs and medical history.

If you have any concerns about Dysport or Botox, discuss them with your doctor before treatment.

How often can you receive Dysport?

As with all cosmetic injectables, the frequency of Dysport injections will depend on your individual goals and needs. However, most people will generally need to repeat their treatment every 3.9 months to maintain their results.

Final Thoughts

Dysport is an excellent treatment option to reduce wrinkles and achieve a refreshed, youthful look.

As with all medical treatments or procedures, it is essential to understand the potential side effects and risks to make an informed decision.

If you're interested in learning more about Dysport and hearing our patient success testimonials, schedule an appointment with some of San Diego's top Dysport injectors at iThriveBeauty today!