Why Dr. Kirby Chooses BOTOX® Cosmetic: A Comparison of Botulinum Toxin Type A Injectables
BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is the most widely used option for improving the appearance of expression wrinkles in the upper face—and it is my preferred product.
In recent years, two Botox alternatives have become available in the United States: Xeomin® and Dysport®. After careful consideration of these products, I still feel confident in choosing Botox as the most effective option.
Botox vs. Xeomin
Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) gained FDA-approval in the United States in 2011. While Xeomin provides comparable results to BOTOX, a randomized, split-faced study found that Botox provides significantly greater reduction of dynamic wrinkles.
Identical dosages of both Botox and Xeomin were administered to 45 patients. Researchers evaluated results of the split-face study at specific intervals to determine efficacy: three days, two weeks, three months, and four months. Botox came out on top across the board, providing a statistically greater improvement of the three types of dynamic facial wrinkles.
Botox vs. Dysport
Like Xeomin, Dysport gained FDA-clearance in the US within the last few years. Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) comes with a smaller per-unit price and claims of more natural-looking results. However, in practice, more units of Dysport are required to produce results that are similar to those achieved with BOTOX. Because of this, the final price of Dysport is often the same or higher than BOTOX.
Additionally, the smaller particle size and injection depth of Dysport often result in the unintended spread of the product; in some instances, it can spread up to two centimeters beyond the treated area. Ultimately, this spread lessens the control your provider has over your results.
Beware of Fraudulent Products
Because Botox Cosmetic is such a well-known product for providing effective treatment, it is not unusual to encounter “copycat” products. These fraudulent solutions may look exactly like the real BOTOX, but there is no guarantee that they are indicated for safe, successful treatment.
One way to determine if the product being used is the real Botox is to ask your provider if they participate in the Brilliant Distinctions program. Participation in this program is a solid indication that you are receiving Botox from the correct and only manufacturer, Allergan.
Why I Choose BOTOX
As a board certified plastic surgeon, I very carefully investigate new products and technologies prior to offering them to my patients. I will not use products or services without careful consideration, including conversations with colleagues, review of published studies, and, in some cases, personal experience with the product.
Botox has consistently proven to be the safest and most effective anti-aging injectable treatment for expression wrinkles in the upper face, both in my personal experience and according to a large number of clinical studies performed since its FDA approval in the early 2000s.
In my experience, Botox has fewer side effects, delivers better results, and is comparable in pricing to alternatives. As the longest-running botulinum toxin type A product available, Botox has a proven track record of safe and efficacious results when administered by an experienced, qualified provider.
Achieving Results You Love Safely
Your chosen product is only as good as the person providing treatment. To avoid bad BOTOX results, it is crucial to work with a board certified plastic surgeon or highly trained injector working under MD supervision.
Patients in Fort Worth are encouraged to contact my office to schedule a private consultation. I will thoughtfully guide you as you explore options and determine which products are the best fit for you.
