WHAT IS SCULPTRA?
FAST FACTS
About:
- Sculptra is an injectable cosmetic filler that can be used to restore facial volume lost due to aging or illness.
- It contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible synthetic substance that stimulates collagen production.
- It can be used to treat deep lines, creases, and folds to give a more youthful appearance.
- It’s also used to treat facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) in people living with HIV.
Safety:
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Sculptra in 2004 for restoration following lipoatrophy for people with HIV.
- In 2009, the FDA approved it under the brand name Sculptra Aesthetic for the treatment of deep facial wrinkles and folds for people with healthy immune systems.
- It may cause swelling, redness, pain, and bruising at the injection site. Lumps under the skin and discoloration have also been reported.
Convenience:
- The procedure is performed in-office by a trained provider.
- No pretesting is required for Sculptra treatments.
- You can return to your normal activities immediately after treatment.
- There is no special preparation required.
Efficacy:
- Some results can be seen after just one treatment, but full results take a few weeks.
- The average treatment regimen consists of three injections over the course of three or four months.
- Results can last up to two years.
The cost of Sculptra depends on several factors, including:
- amount of enhancing or correction necessary to achieve the desired result
- number of treatment visits required
- geographic location
- number of vials of Sculptra used
- discounts or special offers
HOW DOES SCULPTRA WORK?
You may notice immediate results, but it can take a few months to see the full results of your treatment.
Your Sculptra specialist will work with you to determine the number of treatment sessions needed to achieve the best result. The average regimen consists of three injections spread out over three or four months.
During your initial consultation with a trained physician, you’ll be asked to provide your complete medical history, including any medical conditions and allergies.
On the day of your first Sculptra treatment, your doctor will map the injection sites on your skin and cleanse the area. A topical anesthetic may be applied to help with any discomfort. Your doctor will then inject your skin using multiple small injections.
You should be able to return to your normal activities immediately after treatment. Your doctor will advise you of any special instructions.
Sculptra is used to diminish facial wrinkles and folds and has been clinically approved to treat smile lines and other wrinkles around the nose and mouth as well as chin wrinkles.
Sculptra has many off-label uses, including:
- nonsurgical butt lift or buttock augmentation
- correction of cellulite
- correction of chest, elbow, and knee wrinkles
Sculptra has also become a popular choice for those looking to bulk up their appearance. It’s being used to create definition and the look of extra muscle mass on the:
- glutes
- thighs
- biceps
- triceps
- pectorals
Sculptra is not recommended for use on the eyes or lips.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS OR SIDE EFFECTS?
You can expect some swelling and bruising at the injection site. Other common side effects include:
- redness
- tenderness
- pain
- bleeding
- itching
- bumps
Some people may develop lumps under the skin and skin discoloration. In a 2015 study,the reported incidence of nodule formation associated with Sculptra was 7 to 9 percent.
This appears to be related to the depth of the injection, highlighting the importance of finding a qualified professional.
Sculptra shouldn’t be used by people with a history of irregular scarring or anyone allergic to the ingredients of Sculptra. It shouldn’t be used at the site of skin sores, acne, cysts, rashes, or other skin inflammation.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SCULPTRA
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after Sculptra injections. Swelling, bruising, and other side effects are usually mild and subside within a few days. Doing the following will help speed along your recovery:
- Apply a cold pack to the affected area for a few minutes at a time in the first 24 hours.
- Following treatment, massage the area for five minutes at a time, five times a day, for five days.
- Avoid excessive sunlight or tanning beds until any redness and swelling has resolved.
Results are gradual, and it may take a few weeks to see the full effects of Sculptra. Results last up to two years.
There is no special preparation required for Sculptra to reduce the risk of bleeding, your doctor may ask you to stop taking NSAIDs such as aspirin,ibuprofen, and naproxen a few days before the treatment.
