Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid) is a unique approach to volume restoration. Rather than just filling the skin, it is a collagen stimulator. We consider this treatment important for the foundation of the face, while fillers can be used to address localized concerns in specific areas.
This process helps to restore lost volume and correct the signs of facial fat and collagen loss that we develop as we age. Dr. Brown was one of the first physicians to start using Sculptra to rejuvenate the face since it was first FDA-approved in 2004. It can also be injected in other areas to treat volume loss, such as decolletage, forearms, and lower thighs. Sculptra consists of biodegradable particles that are injected in a series of monthly treatments to slowly stimulate your own body’s collagen production to build up the skin. The Sculptra product itself is metabolized into carbon dioxide and water and then taken away by the body. However, these injections are slowly replaced by more of “you” – more natural collagen in the skin.
Are theresults immediate
No. Immediately after your treatment, it may appear that Sculptra filled in the area because of swelling from the injections and water used to dilute Sculptra. In a few days, however, the swelling goes down and you will likely look just as you did before the treatment. Because your body gradually produces its own collagen with this procedure, results will be subtle and gradual over time. This is typically a good thing, though, since you don’t have to reveal your procedure to anyone and no one will have to know exactly how you are achieving your youthful look.
How many treatments are required
Every patient is different, but most patients require a minimum of 3 sessions, with 1-2 vials per session. The standard guideline is to inject 1 vial per decade of age. So, a 50-year-old woman will likely need 5 vials spaced over time. However, patients with mild volume loss may only need 3 vials, while someone with significant aging may need much more than 6. The wonderful aspect about this procedure is that we can inject a series of treatments and monitor for results 4 months later, and then add more treatments as desired.
How longdo treatment results last?
Results will vary among patients, but treatments typically last for up to 2 years or longer. However, because we are constantly losing collagen as we age, it is highly recommended to repeat a booster treatment at least once a year to continue the collagen stimulation. Several patients prefer to repeat a single treatment twice a year for even better results.
What should I expect during a treatment session
An office consultation before your treatment will ensure that this treatment is the best option for you. We can develop a long-term game plan for you at this time.
Before your treatment, we will apply a potent numbing cream for about 1 hour to make the treatment more pleasant.
During the 20-minute procedure, Dr. Brown will inject the Sculptra in strategic areas for the best results.
You are welcome to run errands afterward, but localized bruising and mild swelling may be evident. We advise against scheduling important activities for several days afterward.
What should I do and expect after treatment?
Right after your treatment session, you may experience redness, swelling, pain, or bruising in the area. These effects are not typically severe and often resolve in a few hours to a few days. Make-up can be applied a few hours after treatment if no complications are present (such as open wounds or bleeding). For the first 24 hours after treatment, you should apply an ice pack to the area for a few minutes at a time to help reduce swelling. For one week after treatment, you should massage the treated area twice a day. Avoid excessive sun exposure or tanning beds until any swelling and redness have completely resolved.
How soon can I go back to my regular daily activities ?
Most patients feel comfortable after a Sculptra treatment and are able to resume normal activities immediately. However, it is not wise to plan an important social function for several days after the procedure, just in case you experience bruising or other side effects.
Do the injections hurt ?
Our office applies a topical numbing cream to the entire area to minimize any pain with the injections. Patients may still feel some discomfort, but this is typically minimal.
Is Sculptra safe?
The material in Sculptra hasbeen widely used in U.S. medicine for many years as dissolvable stitches and various implants. After its approval in 2004, we have had almost 2 decades of experience with this treatment. Dr. Brown has also injected herself with Sculptra almost two dozen times through the years. Sculptra is biodegradable (easily broken down by the body) and is converted into natural components of the body. Also, Sculptra is synthetic, meaning that it is not derived from animal or human tissue. So, there is no need for a skin test before treatment, and there is no theoretical risk of acquiring an infectious disease from the product.
What are the possible side effects with Sculptra ?
The most common side effects with Sculptra can occur after any injection and include bruising, bleeding, swelling, redness, tenderness, or pain. These effects can last, on average, 3 to 17 days. As with any skin injection, there is also a risk of infection.
One possible delayed side effect with Sculptra is small bumps under the skin in the treated area. These small bumps are typically not visible or bothersome, and may only be noticed when you press on the treated skin. The skin bumps tend to occur within 6 months after the first treatment. They may slowly resolve on their own with massage. Fortunately, Dr. Brown can treat these issues in the office.
Sculptra Instructions
For more information, please visit the Sculptra web site.
Aspire RewardsThis reward program is from the makers of Dysport, Restylane, Sculptra, etc. It is free to join and easy to use. Sign up before your first treatment for an extra introductory rebate. Each time you have a treatment with any of their participating products, you will earn points towards savings on your next treatment. Additional savings rebates are occasionally available for members. By the way, if you can never remember your login password, you can always have us keep it handy for you in your private chart in the office.
Join today or login for you status https://www.aspirerewards.com/landing