sculptra®
What is Sculptra®?
Sculptra® is a synthetic injectable material known as "poly-L-lactic acid". Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible (material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (is broken down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants and other types of implants.
How does Sculptra work?
Sculptra is injected below the surface of the skin in the area of fat loss. It provides a gradual increase in skin thickness. Visible results are seen within the first few treatments. Sculptra will not correct the underlying cause of the facial fat loss, but will help improve the appearance by increasing skin thickness in the treated area.
Is skin testing required prior to being treated with Sculptra?
No skin testing is required prior to treatment.
Are the results from Sculptra immediate?
No. After your first treatment, it may appear that Sculptra worked immediately because of swelling from the injections and the water used to dilute Sculptra. A few days after the treatment, when the swelling goes down and the water is absorbed by your body, you may look as you did before the treatment. Sculptra takes time to gradually correct the depression and creases in your skin. You will want to have a recheck 4 weeks after your first injection to decide if you need more.
How many treatments are required?
We will decide together what is the appropriate number of treatments for you. Patients with severe facial fat loss/ aging may require 3 to 6 treatment sessions.
How long do treatment results last?
Treatment results will differ from person to person. In a clinical study, the treatment results lasted up to 2 years after the first treatment session. Touch-up treatments may be needed to maintain the desired effect.
What are the possible side effects of Sculptra?
The most common side effects include injection-related side effects such as bleeding, tenderness/pain, redness, bruising, or swelling. These side effects last approximately 3 to 17 days. One possible delayed side effect with Sculptra can be small bumps under the skin in the treated areas. These small bumps may not be visible , but you may notice them when you press on the treated skin. The bumps tend to occur within 6 to 12 months after the first treatment. These bumps may go away by themselves. Visible bumps, sometimes with redness or color change to the area, have also been reported. As with all procedures that involve injection through the skin, there is a risk of infection. Always report all side effects to your care provider.
Who should not use Sculptra?
You will want to speak with your health care provider in your initial consultation to go over your medical history when deciding on treatment options. Cost will also be discussed at that time and is dependent upon your specific needs. You should not use Sculptra if you are allergic to any ingredients in Sculptra. It should never be injected while you have an active skin infection or inflammation of the proposed injection area.
Can I combine Sculptra with other treatments?
Absolutely. Many of our patients choose to enhance the results of their Colorado facial rejuvenation procedures, such as face lift, neck lift, brow lift, or eyelid surgery, with Sculptra injections to enhance facial volume. You can learn more about the facial cosmetic surgery options we offer and see diagrams of how several procedures are performed when you visit our specialty site.
