By Dr. Erin J. Smith, MD - Facial Plastic Surgeon
As facial plastic surgeons, our goal has always been to enhance, not erase. In an era where patients are increasingly seeking natural, "untouched" results, one technique that has gained significant traction in my practice is microdosing Dysport.
For those unfamiliar, Dysport is a botulinum toxin type A—similar to Botox—used to smooth dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive facial movements. Traditionally, we administer it in standard units to relax targeted muscles. However, microdosing, also called “baby tox” or “sprinkling,” involves delivering very small amounts of Dysport in a more dispersed, strategic pattern.
Let us explain why this approach is becoming a favorite among both patients and professionals.
The Philosophy Behind Microdosing
Wrinkles are part of our emotional landscape. They tell stories—of smiles, squints, and moments of deep thought. But as they deepen, they can distort the harmony of our expressions or make us look fatigued or stern. Many of my patients come in saying, "I want to look like myself, just more rested." Microdosing helps achieve exactly that.
By using smaller doses, we don’t completely freeze the muscle. Instead, we soften the movement, reducing the appearance of fine lines while preserving the patient’s natural expressiveness. It's about refinement, not transformation.
Ideal Candidates for Microdosing
This technique is especially beneficial for:
- First-time neuromodulator patients who are nervous about an overdone look
- Patients with fine lines, particularly in delicate areas like under the eyes or around the lips
- Athletes, actors, and highly expressive individuals who rely on facial movement
- Younger patients seeking preventative care rather than correction
We also find microdosing effective for off-label uses, like improving skin texture and pore size in the T-zone or enhancing jawline definition with subtle platysma band relaxation.
Technique and Results
Microdosing requires a thoughtful, customized approach. We use dilute Dysport more than usual to allow broader diffusion. Injections are placed more superficially and at more frequent intervals across the treatment area.
While standard Dysport injections typically last 3–4 months, microdosed results may last slightly less—often around 6–10 weeks—but they come with a huge upside: an ultra-natural finish.
Patients report that their skin feels smoother, makeup applies better, and they receive compliments like “You look refreshed” rather than “Did you get something done?”
Why Dysport?
Though Botox is the more widely known brand, we frequently choose Dysport for microdosing because of its unique diffusion characteristics. It tends to spread slightly more than Botox, making it ideal for treating broad areas with a feather-light touch. It kicks in a bit quicker too—often within 2–3 days—making it a popular choice for those prepping for events or photos.
Final Thoughts
In the evolving world of aesthetics, less is often more. Microdosing Dysport represents a shift toward personalization, subtlety, and artistry. As facial plastic surgeons, we believe that great work is invisible—it’s not about changing how you look, but enhancing how you feel in your own skin.
If you’ve been hesitant about neuromodulators or are looking for a more refined approach, we encourage you to explore the possibilities of microdosing. Sometimes, just a whisper of change is all you need.
