Have you ever wondered why certain aesthetics treatments are so expensive? Part of the reason is the high net profits being made by suppliers of the treatment products. For example, take a look at Allergan, the makers of Botox and breast implants. Within the last year, we saw at least two increases in the prices charged to doctors for these products.
A recent story also indicated that Allergan is experiencing a huge increase in its net revenue. Allergan actually reported a 116% increase in net revenue. The company’s revenue rose to $5.76 billion for the second quarter of 2015. This is compared to $2.67 billion for the second quarter of 2014.
Allergan recently acquired Kythera, Naurex, and Oculeve that will help strengthen the company’s aesthetics, eye care and central nervous systems product lines. Additionally, Allergan produces the fillers Juvederm/Voluma product lines that saw a second quarter net profit of $196 million, which also reflected the international performance of these companies.
While it may seem that when a company such as Allergan has such a recognized name, as well as products, it will continue to increase their bottom line by increasing the cost of their products.
Of course, this in turn means a higher cost for the consumer. What many people do not know is that there are many alternatives to the brands offered by companies such as Allergan.
For instance, treatments using products such as Xeomin (produced by Merz Pharmaceuticals) and Dysport (produced by Galderma Laboratories) are two alternatives to Allergan’s Botox. Both Xeomin and Dysport are the same product as Botox — botulinum toxin A, and work the same by relaxing targeted muscles. However, both Xeomin and Dysport are less expensive than Botox. Additionally, some studies have indicated that these products may work faster than Botox.
While some may be concerned about the safety of these Botox alternatives, both Dysport and Xeomin are FDA approved.
As you can see, as a consumer you do not have just one option when it comes to treatments for facial lines and wrinkles. This also is the case for many other cosmetic treatments including fillers and other facial treatments.
If you want to know more about the alternatives available to you, Dr. Wright and his staff at Laser Lipo and Vein are happy to discuss them with you! Please call us to set up your complimentary consultation.
