Dysport is a popular injectable neurotoxin similar to Botox. This product has gained significant traction in the cosmetic industry due to its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While patients love the refreshed look Dysport provides, one of the most common questions that arises is about its longevity. Understanding how long the results remain can help you plan your injection schedule and maintain your desired appearance with minimal interruption.
The effects of Dysport typically last between 3 to 4 months for most patients, though individual results may vary. Several factors influence longevity, including metabolism, injection technique, target area, and dosage. First-time users might notice shorter periods, while those who maintain regular treatment schedules often find the effects can gradually extend to longer intervals. Dr. Fayad recommends scheduling touch-up injections every 3-4 months for optimal results.
The body’s metabolism (how quickly it breaks down substances) plays a crucial role in the longevity of Dysport results, with some patients experiencing shorter effects. Age is equally significant — younger people tend to metabolize the product faster, while older individuals with more established facial wrinkles can notice the improvements last longer. Generally, patients over 50 may enjoy results for up to five months, while those in their 20s and 30s might need touch-ups slightly sooner.
The longevity of Dysport varies significantly depending on which part of the face receives the injectable treatment. Areas with smaller muscles and less frequent movement — such as crow’s feet around the eyes — typically maintain results longer than larger and more active regions. The glabella (between eyebrows) often holds improvements for 3-4 months, while treatments addressing facial lines on the forehead might last closer to 3 months due to frequent muscle engagement. The perioral area (around the mouth) typically shows the shortest duration, as these tissues are constantly active during speaking and eating, breaking down the neurotoxin more rapidly.
The amount of product injected significantly impacts how long results persist. Higher doses generally produce more extended effects. Dysport injections are measured in units, with typical treatments ranging from 50 to 100 units depending on the target area and severity of wrinkles. A proper dosage ensures optimal binding to nerve receptors without causing an overly frozen appearance. Treatments with insufficient Dysport units are a common reason for shorter-than-expected results.
The precision and skill of your provider directly influence how long your improvements will last. An experienced practitioner understands the complex facial anatomy and can target the exact muscle fibers responsible for specific wrinkles, optimizing the treatment process for maximum effectiveness. Proper depth, angle, and placement of injections ensure the product reaches the intended muscles without spreading to unintended areas. Providers who have performed thousands of treatments can customize techniques to each patient’s unique facial structure, potentially extending results by 2-4 weeks compared to less experienced practitioners. This expertise also minimizes complications compromising longevity, such as antibody formation from poor injection practices.
Recurring facial movements significantly affect how quickly Dysport wears off. People who frequently furrow their brows, squint, or make other repetitive expressions may notice their results fading faster than those with more relaxed facial habits. These habitual movements particularly impact forehead lines, as the constant contraction of the frontalis muscle can accelerate the breakdown of the neurotoxin. Individuals with high-stress jobs or who are expressively animated when speaking often find their Dysport wearing off faster. Being mindful of these issues and potentially modifying habits might help extend results between treatments.
Both of these products contain botulinum toxin type A. However, they differ in their molecular structure and diffusion properties. Dysport typically spreads more widely than Botox, making it ideal for treating larger areas like the forehead. This can sometimes result in a slightly shorter duration of effects. Dysport users often report the onset of results within 24-48 hours — noticeably faster than Botox’s typical 3-7 day activation period. Both products ultimately provide comparable longevity when adequately dosed. Some patients experience more extended benefits with Botox, lasting up to 6 months.
Dysport’s distinctive composition includes smaller molecules and a different manufacturing process, contributing to its specific diffusion pattern and duration. The product’s higher protein load might trigger a more robust blocking effect at the neuromuscular junction in certain patients, potentially extending results in some cases. Additionally, Dysport’s concentration differs from other neurotoxins (with approximately 3 Dysport units equaling 1 Botox unit), allowing for customized dosing. When optimized, this product can enhance longevity for particular facial concerns, especially in areas with broader muscle groups like the forehead and between the eyebrows.
For optimal Dysport results, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (including aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E) for 7-10 days before treatment to minimize bruising risk. Stay well-hydrated 48 hours before your appointment to ensure healthy tissue response. Skip alcohol for at least 1 day as it can increase swelling and potentially affect how the product disperses. Finally, arrive with a clean face free of makeup, particularly if you’re receiving injections in the eye area, allowing your provider to see your natural muscle movements for precise placement.
Proper aftercare may significantly impact the quality and longevity of your Dysport results while keeping your skin healthy. For the first 24 hours, avoid touching or massaging the treated areas to prevent product migration to unintended muscles. Skip strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs during this initial period to minimize the risk of diffusion. After 24 hours, it is generally safe to resume your skincare routine. However, we recommend postponing aggressive treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion for at least a week. Apply sunscreen diligently, as UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and can shorten the longevity of Dysport effects.
Combining Dysport with other cosmetic treatments often enhances and extends overall results. Dermal fillers used with this product create a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation, with fillers addressing volume loss while neurotoxin relaxes dynamic wrinkles. Microneedling or radiofrequency treatments scheduled between Dysport sessions can boost collagen production, strengthening the skin’s foundation and potentially making future injections more effective. Regular professional-grade facials maintain skin texture and clarity, complementing the wrinkle-reducing effects of neurotoxin treatments. Dr. Fayad can develop a coordinated timeline of complementary procedures that enhances results without interference.
The most obvious sign that you need follow-up treatments is the reappearance of dynamic wrinkles. You may notice frown lines between the brows becoming more pronounced when concentrating or squinting, and forehead creases might return when raising your eyebrows. These wrinkles initially appear only during movement and later become visible at rest, signaling that the neurotoxin’s effects are fading.
As Dysport wears off, patients experience a progressive restoration of muscle control in treated areas. This typically begins with subtle movements — perhaps a slight ability to furrow a brow or create minor creases around the eyes when smiling. This restoration isn’t sudden but occurs over days or weeks as the neurotoxin’s blocking effect on nerves diminishes, allowing muscle fibers to regain their contractile abilities.
Maintaining a consistent treatment schedule is key to optimal long-term results. Rather than waiting until full movement returns, book your next appointment when you notice the first signs of muscle activity — typically around the 3-month mark for most patients. Scheduling proactively prevents wrinkle recurrence and may lead to decreased product needs over time, as consistently relaxed muscles can “forget” their contraction patterns, potentially extending the interval between treatments.
Understanding how long Dysport lasts is essential for planning your aesthetic maintenance routine. While the average 3-4-month duration provides a reliable guideline, your experience may vary based on metabolism, treatment area, dosage, injection technique, and personal habits. You can maximize your results between sessions by partnering with a qualified provider like Dr. Fayad, following proper pre and post-treatment protocols, and maintaining healthy lifestyle choices.
Feel free to schedule a consultation today to receive professional cosmetic treatment from our board-certified practitioner, Dr. Fayad.
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