AMM 128: Sculpted Confidence Maintaining Aesthetic Independence with INCO
July 04, 2024
This episode, airing on July 4th, 2024, explores the concept of maintaining “Sculpted Confidence” in light of emerging concerns about botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) immunoresistance. The discussion covers the basics of immunoresistance, real-world effects seen in a recent study, and the critical role of shared decision-making between patients and practitioners. Experts recommend formulations like Xeomin that have a lower immunogenic potential. Listeners will learn about the importance of understanding the long-term implications of repeated BoNT-A treatments and how clear communication can enhance treatment success and satisfaction.
Quick Takes
- Immunoresistance to BoNT-A is a growing concern among aesthetic practitioners, leading to reduced efficacy in treatments with repeated use
- Shared decision-making between doctors and patients is crucial in minimizing the risk of immunoresistance, with emphasis on choosing highly purified, low-immunogenicity formulations such as Xeomin
- Communication is key in establishing clear expectations about the risks and benefits of BoNT-A treatments, aiming for a tailored treatment plan to ensure long-term success and satisfaction
Episode Transcript
Today is July 4th, 2024, Independence Day in the U.S., so it’s a great moment to talk about freedom and independence in a slightly different context—specifically, how we can maintain our “Sculpted Confidence” through thoughtful aesthetic choices.
Recent articles are shedding light on an issue that many aesthetic practitioners are seeing more of: immunoresistance to botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A). This happens when our bodies develop neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against BoNT-A with repeated treatments, leading to reduced efficacy. This could mean that for some, the go-to treatments might stop delivering the same results, which is definitely not what we want.
The good news? Shared decision-making between doctors and patients can help minimize the risk. Experts, including those from the Aesthetic Council on Ethical Use of Neurotoxin Delivery (ASCEND), stress the importance of choosing highly purified, low-immunogenicity formulations. Formulations free from complexing proteins—like INCO, also known as Xeomin—stand out as having an edge due to their lower immunogenic potential.
A recent study conducted in the Asia-Pacific region examined the real-world effects of BoNT-A immunoresistance. The study surveyed 363 women who had been treated with BoNT-A multiple times over the past three years. Although 75% were aware of the risks of immunoresistance, many didn’t fully understand its long-term implications. For instance, 45% believed that effectiveness in initial treatments guaranteed future success, which isn’t necessarily the case.
What was particularly startling is that almost half of the participants experienced multiple symptoms of declining efficacy, like weaker or shorter-lasting effects. Notably, these participants commonly switched formulations or clinics in their quest for renewed effectiveness. Yet, switching BoNT-A formulations frequently or having high initial doses can actually increase the risk of developing NAbs.
Key takeaway: Communication between practitioners and patients needs to be clear and centered around both risks and benefits. Understanding BoNT-A’s immunogenic potential and having a tailored treatment plan can help maintain long-term success and satisfaction.
So, on a day celebrating independence, let’s also think about how we can maintain our aesthetic independence by making informed, smart choices with our BoNT-A treatments. Until next time, stay sculpted and confident!