What is Sculptra?
The generic name of Sculptra® is poly-L-lactic acid or PLLA. PLLA is a synthetic substance made in a factory. Once injected in your skin, your own body creates collagen as a reaction to this substance. Sculptra® helps in reducing the appearance of aging. It restores a more natural and youthful look by replacing lost facial volume. Sculptra® can treat wrinkles, fine lines and lipoatrophy (also known as overall facial wasting or loss of facial fat.)
Is it FDA approved?
Yes, Sculptra® is FDA approved. The FDA has approved this product for cosmetic purposes and for HIV lipodystrophy. Sculptra® has also been used for cosmetic in Europe for over ten years with great success. The main ingredient used in Sculptra® has been used for over 20 years in surgical products such as dissolvable stitches.
The procedure
Before the treatment begins, anesthetic cream is applied to the skin. The Sculptra® solution can be mixed with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to make this procedure as comfortable as possible. The product is injected under the skin in the areas of lost volume. After completion of the treatment, the face is massaged for a few minutes to help decrease the risk of any bumps. Exercise should be avoided for 24 hours, but make up can be applied immediately so you can go back to your normal activities. Redness or swelling may occur at the injection site but this fades quickly.
How does Sculptra® work?
Sculptra® works through a process known as collagen neosynthesis. Once injected, the microscopic crystals cause a weak inflammatory reaction under the skin which activates the production of collagen. This increase in collagen over time helps to volumize areas of the face and restores a youthful look.
How many treatments are recommended? How long does it last?
Multiple treatments may be recommended depending on how much volume loss is present. Sculptra® can last for up two years and will need follow up maintenance treatments.
When will results be seen?
The results are not instant because the body needs to create collagen as a reaction to the product. It may take from one to three months to see results.
Is maintenance treatment needed?
Yes, maintenance is recommended after Sculptra® injections about once a year. This depends on the individual’s metabolism.
Benefits of using sculptra
- Increased skin thickness
- Healthier, more youthful appearance
- Improved facial volume
Who can and cannot use sculptra?
Sculptra® treatment is advised for patients with good health and also for people living with HIV. People with skin rashes or infections, pregnant or nursing women and people with autoimmune diseases should not have this treatment. The best plan would be to book a consultation with your aesthetic physician to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.