Dr. Buckingham’s Q&A

Question:
I’m from Lakeway and I’m looking to get either Botox or Dysport injections. What are the major differences between them?

Answer:
Botox and Dysport are very similar.  They are both botulinum toxin type A.  The difference is in the protein shell around the active molecule.  This shell is cleaved almost immediately upon injection releasing the active molecule.  Clinically the products behave almost exactly the same in my opinion.  Studies have been done comparing onset, migration and longevity, but they are conflicting, and often sponsored by the manufacturers; which concerns me regarding the validity of the results.  I believe patients should just choose one product or the other and see if it works well for them.  If not, then the other may be tried.  In general, both are very effective and safe. 

Posted by Dr. Buckingham

Question:
Is there any one filler than can be used to improve marionette lines and lip lines, as well as some other superficial facial wrinkles? Or is it better to use different fillers for different problems?

Answer:
Hyaluronic acid fillers are the only ones that we inject into the lips. HA fillers are also very good at marionette lines as well as other superficial wrinkles. While you can use other fillers for areas other than lips it is not necessarily better. We usually will utilize Juvederm, Restylane or Perlane for all the areas unless the patient desires a longer result in which case we might recommend Radiesse. We utilize Sculptra as well for more significant volume replacement cases or in patients who don’t mind a series of injections and are looking for the longest results. Sculptra is not good for the lips however.

Posted by Dr. Buckingham