Cosmetic Services · Burien & Bellevue, WA
Botox & Dysport Injections
Smooth dynamic wrinkles, lift the brows, and even treat excessive sweating with FDA-approved neuromodulator injections performed by board-certified dermatologists. Quick, precise, and natural-looking results — no downtime required.
Schedule a ConsultationWhat Is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA — a purified form of botulinum toxin type A that has been FDA-approved for both medical and cosmetic uses since 2002. It is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the United States, with millions of treatments performed safely every year.
At Dermatology of Seattle, Botox and Dysport (an equivalent neuromodulator) injections are performed exclusively by our board-certified dermatologists, who bring deep knowledge of facial anatomy and precise injection technique to every treatment.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. When injected into specific facial muscles, it prevents those muscles from making the repeated contractions that create dynamic wrinkles — the lines formed by smiling, squinting, frowning, and other expressions.
The effect is not permanent. Over 3–4 months, nerve signaling gradually resumes and muscle activity returns. Regular treatments are needed to maintain smooth, relaxed results. With consistent treatment, many patients find their results lasting progressively longer over time as the muscles become less active.
Botox does not affect static wrinkles (lines present at rest without muscle movement) — those are better addressed with dermal fillers, RF microneedling, or laser treatments. Your dermatologist will help identify the right treatment for each of your concerns.
Areas We Treat
Neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport are remarkably versatile. At Dermatology of Seattle, we use them to address a wide range of cosmetic and functional concerns:
- Forehead horizontal lines
- Glabellar frown lines ("11s")
- Crow's feet (lateral eye lines)
- Brow lift (chemical brow elevation)
- Bunny lines (nose scrunch lines)
- Lip flip (subtle upper lip roll)
- Chin dimpling (peau d'orange texture)
- Platysmal bands (vertical neck cords)
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm, hand, or foot sweating)
- Masseter reduction (teeth grinding / jaw slimming)
What to Expect During Treatment
Your Botox appointment at Dermatology of Seattle is quick, comfortable, and requires no recovery time. Here is what to expect from start to finish:
Consultation & Assessment
Your dermatologist reviews your concerns, examines your facial anatomy and muscle movement, and discusses the recommended treatment areas and doses. Photos may be taken for your medical record.
Optional Numbing
Topical numbing cream can be applied 20–30 minutes before treatment if you prefer, though most patients find it unnecessary given the tiny needle size.
Precise Injections
Using ultra-fine needles, your dermatologist places small amounts of Botox or Dysport into the targeted muscles. Most treatment areas take only a few seconds each. The full injection process typically takes 10–20 minutes.
Post-Treatment Instructions
You'll be asked to avoid lying flat, rubbing the treated areas, and strenuous exercise for 4 hours. Otherwise, you can resume all normal activities immediately.
When Will I See Results?
Botox does not work instantly — the neuromuscular blocking effect develops gradually as the toxin binds to nerve endings:
- Days 3–7: initial relaxation begins; treated muscles move less forcefully
- Day 14: full peak effect — wrinkles at maximum smoothness
- Months 1–2: optimal result window for most patients
- Months 3–4: effect gradually wears off as nerve signaling resumes
We recommend scheduling a 2-week follow-up after your first treatment to assess results and make any small touch-up adjustments if needed.
Botox vs. Dysport: What's the Difference?
Both Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are FDA-approved neuromodulators that work through the same mechanism and produce comparable results. The differences between them are subtle:
Botox
Slightly more localized spread; precise targeting of small areas like crow's feet and lip flip. Onset in 3–7 days. Units are not interchangeable with Dysport.
Dysport
Smaller molecular size allows slightly broader diffusion; can be advantageous for larger areas like the forehead. Some patients notice onset slightly earlier. Dosed in different units than Botox.
Your dermatologist will recommend which product is best suited to your anatomy and treatment goals.
Book a Consultation
Find out how Botox or Dysport can address your specific concerns. Our dermatologists will create a personalized plan for natural-looking results.
Schedule NowQuick Facts
- Treatment time: 15–30 minutes
- No downtime required
- Results appear in 3–7 days
- Peak effect at 2 weeks
- Results last 3–4 months
- FDA-approved neuromodulator
- Treats wrinkles and hyperhidrosis
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Botox hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a brief pinch — similar to a small insect bite. We use very fine needles (the smallest available) and can apply a topical numbing cream beforehand if you prefer. The entire injection process typically takes under 10 minutes, and any discomfort resolves almost immediately.
Can I go back to work right after Botox?
Yes. Botox requires zero downtime. You can return to work, social activities, and most of your normal routine immediately after your appointment. We do ask that you avoid lying flat, vigorous exercise, and rubbing the treated areas for the first 4 hours to prevent migration of the product.
Will I look frozen or unnatural?
Not with a skilled injector. The "frozen" look is a result of over-treatment or poor technique. Our board-certified dermatologists use conservative doses tailored to your facial anatomy, preserving natural movement and expression while softening the lines that bother you. Our goal is always a refreshed, natural appearance.
How often do I need Botox treatments?
Results typically last 3–4 months, though this varies by individual, the area treated, and the dose used. Patients who receive regular treatments often find their results lasting longer over time, as the treated muscles gradually become less active. Most patients come in 3–4 times per year.
What does Botox cost?
Botox is typically priced per unit or per area. The number of units needed varies by the treatment area and the strength of your muscles. During your consultation, your dermatologist will recommend a dose and provide a clear cost estimate before proceeding — there are never surprise charges.
What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?
Both Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are FDA-approved neuromodulators derived from botulinum toxin type A. They work the same way and produce comparable results. Dysport has a slightly smaller molecular size and may spread marginally more, which can be an advantage for larger areas like the forehead. Your dermatologist will recommend the best option for you.
Ready for Smoother, More Refreshed Skin?
Schedule your Botox or Dysport consultation with a board-certified dermatologist at our Burien or Bellevue office. Natural results. Expert hands.