Neurotoxins are substances that relax the facial muscles, reducing wrinkles such as those on the forehead and crow’s feet. Wrinkles in these areas can make you look old, tired, or mean. Botox, the first neurotoxin introduced for cosmetic purposes in 2002, has been on the market for 22 years, and since then, other neurotoxins like Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin have been introduced. While Botox is the most popular, other brands are also effective. I have been injecting Botox since 2004 – 20 years. I also inject Dysport and Xeomin. Although the full safety and prescribing information including boxed warning lists a host of unwanted side effects, over the 20 years that I have been injecting, the most common side effects that I have noticed are bruising, and redness in the area injected. Rarely, have I seen drooping of the eyelids or brows, or an allergic reaction – redness or swelling of the injected area. The discomfort experienced during injection can be zero to that of an insect bite. Most neurotoxins last about 3 months. I have seen neurotoxins last 6 months to a year in some individuals.
Dr. Dyson