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BOTOX® / Xeomin® / Dysport®

Botox, Xeomin, Dysport Injections for Facial Rejuvenation in Denver

What is BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is a trade name for a refined version of the botulinum toxin type A, originally isolated and refined by researchers seeking to help people with eyelid and facial spasms. It has been safely used for this purpose since the 1980’s. Dr. Fante is the author of scientific articles on the medical uses of botulinum toxin type A and has vast experience with this medication.

We’ve all heard that botulism is a form of food poisoning. Yikes. How can a poison be used therapeutically?

Well, not to worry. It’s only poisonous in a large dose, about 100 times what will be used cosmetically, because then it paralyzes muscles. For cosmetic treatments, BOTOX® injections have been approved by the FDA.  Injected precisely into specific muscle areas in tiny doses, it relaxes the muscle and relieves it from unconscious and unnecessary movement, thus preventing it from making wrinkles.

Alternative brands of botulinum toxin type A, such as Dysport® and Xeomin® are also available at our office. We will explain the differences below.


Xeomin® is an injectable composed of botulinum toxin type A, a naturally occurring protein that is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. When Xeomin® is injected into the muscles it reduces their activity and the result is a smoother and less noticeable wrinkle. Xeomin® does not stop the muscle from moving entirely; instead, it modifies the contractions. This is achieved by inhibiting a body chemical called acetylcholine from signaling all of the nerves within the muscle to contract.

The number of injections necessary will vary from patient to patient, depending upon the area of concern. The results of treatment with Xeomin® are usually seen after one week and last, on the average, up to 12 weeks.


Dysport® is an injectable that is FDA approved. It temporarily lessens or eliminates moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Dysport® is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX® Cosmetic.

Similar to BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport® injectable is placed directly into the muscle underneath a furrow, weakening the muscle to the point where it cannot contract.

How Does BOTOX® / Xeomin® / Dysport® Work?

We tend to learn facial habits as we grow up, facial expressions that become habitual, and over the years start creating permanent lines. BOTOX®, Xeomin® and Dysport® injections don’t totally stop all muscle movement; they just relax the muscles and allow the skin to become smoother. This gives us a refreshed look, as if we had a good night’s sleep and feel in a good mood.

What Can I Expect During Treatment?

Using a very fine needle, the injectable is placed directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. No anesthetic is required, but some doctors numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days and typically last up to 4-6 months. In some cases, areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer.

  • Beforehand, several photographs will be taken of your face, from different angles, so that you can compare your new look with this previous look.
  • The injections take only a few minutes and are done with a very fine, tiny needle. There’s not much pain, but some people feel minor, temporary discomfort.
  • There’s no recovery time necessary. Most people go right back to work or their normal activities after treatment.


How Many Botox® Treatments Will I Need?

Typically, the BOTOX® is injected in 4 or 5 areas on each side of your forehead, and 2 or 3 at each eye area. Other areas around the mouth and neck can also be treated. But of course, each face is unique. So we will work with you to use the right number of small injections to make for you, in just the right places, to give you optimal results.  Dr. Fante has vast experience with these treatments.

What Can I Expect During Recovery?

  • Avoid rubbing the injected areas for 3 or 4 hours
  • We will have discussed bruising with you, and if it’s a concern, avoid taking any aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil) for a day or two.
  • You’ll see the results anywhere from 2 to 7 days later.
  • You’ll notice that deeper wrinkles will become lighter and light ones will almost disappear.
  • Some people go on to have injections of a filler substance, such as Restylane® or Juvederm®. This fills out the skin that was furrowed and is now smoother.
  • If you have several deeper wrinkles, you might decide to have further Botox® injections on them, to achieve your best results.

Are There Risks Associated With Botox® Injections?

The worst that people generally experience is some pain at the injection sites and/or headache, and maybe some symptoms of a cold or upper respiratory virus. We will prescribe a pain medication if necessary.  Bruising is uncommon but possible.  Even more rarely, there could be some temporary eyelid drooping. If you were to notice that, immediately let us know, because there is a treatment for it.

How Long Do The Results From Botox® Last?

Effects last for 3 or 4 months. Gradually your muscles return to their normal state, and repeat treatments can maintain them in their more relaxed state. After 18-24 months of continuous treatment, some people will have retrained certain facial muscles (especially between the eyebrows) and will need less Botox® after that. Also, there is a “frequent flyer” program for Botox® and other products made by Allergan called Brilliant Distinctions. We will help you enroll and will be sure that you receive credit for any treatments received through our office. The makers of Dysport® and Xeomin® have similar programs.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are noticing facial aging and would like more information on BOTOX®, Xeomin® or Dysport®, contact our office today! Call (303) 839-1616 to schedule a consultation with board certified Denver plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Fante.