What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a “collagen builder” that helps your body naturally produce its own collagen, previously lost over time. This injectable biostimulator is made of very small particles of “poly-L-lactic acid” that stimulate your body to reverse the aging process. It is injected under the surface of the skin to decrease the appearance of volume loss and facial lines, wrinkles, or folds.
Collagen depletion occurs with age and is noticeable in the form of wrinkles. By injecting Sculptra into areas of the skin where collagen naturally exists and is produced, Sculptra works by filling your wrinkles with small poly-L-lactic acid beads. These beads biodegrade over time as the body starts to produce its own new collagen.
What to Expect With Treatment:
Sculptra treatments are performed in the office setting. Once you have your consultation with your physician, he or she will review your treatment options. Usually it is recommended that you receive 1-3 treatments of Sculptra, spaced out approximately 4 weeks for maximum effects. Sculptra is injected along with lidocaine (numbing medicine) to keep you comfortable. The Sculptra material will be administered by your physician. Multiple small injections using a fine needle and grid pattern are used to correct the wrinkles. While immediate treatment benefits are initially seen, these diminish in a few days as swelling resolves. However, once the beads start to absorb, the new collagen produced by your own body begins to take its place. Although Sculptra does not produce immediate effects, its results are longer lasting as it prompts your body to produce its own collagen. The effect is seen at 4-6 weeks and is cumulative with repeated injections. Results continue to improve for up to two years, versus the 6-12 months of results produced by traditional dermal fillers. After 1-2 years, another injection of Sculpta might be needed to maintain and further enhance your cosmetic results.
Side effects of Sculptra may include temporary swelling, redness to the area, tenderness, and bruising that may last anywhere from a few hours up to two weeks. After treatment, you may ice the area to help reduce swelling and bruising. It is important to avoid strenuous exercise immediately after your treatment.