Sculptra
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra® (Poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA)) was approved by the FDA in 2004 for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and in 2009 for cosmetic indications in immune-competent patients. Over the past years, considerable experience has been gained with PLLA, and it’s safe and effective. Sculptra Aesthetic is a unique treatment option that allows clinicians to work directly with the patient to help replace lost collagen, through a series of treatments. On average, three injection sessions are required over a period of a few months.
Sculptra can be used for:
- Restoration of the facial volume lost due to aging or illness. Strategically injected creates a non-surgical facelift.
- Skin quality improvement can be used for decolletage, knees, and upper arms.
- Cellulite improvement.
- Buttocks augmentation.
Do I need skin tests before Sculptra treatment?
No skin testing is required prior to use in immune-competent people with skin that usually heals.
Do I see Results From Sculptra Immediately?
No. Unlike other wrinkle fillers, SCULPTRA is a bio stimulator, it provides a gradual improvement of the area over several weeks as the treatment effects occur. During the initial treatment session with SCULPTRA, it may seem that your treatment worked immediately because of swelling caused by the injection and the water used to dilute SCULPTRA Aesthetic. This usually resolves in several hours to a few days and may cause the original wrinkle to reappear: you may look as you did before your treatment. Visible wrinkle correction results appear slowly. You should see your doctor again in four weeks for additional treatments.
How often do I need Sculptra Aesthetic treatments and how many treatments are required?
Usually, you may require three to four treatment sessions four to eight weeks apart to achieve the optimal correction possible.
How long does it last?
Sculptra lasts 2-3 years once the series of treatments are completed. Maintenance treatments can be done once a year, it is up to you and your doctor to decide. The longevity of any filler depends on your metabolic rate, lifestyle, and diet.
Sculptra side effects:
- Injection site reactions like bruising, pain, swelling, and redness
- Itching and heat sensation has also been reported, in most cases, it improves within a few days.
- Delayed onset granulomas (small lumps under the skin) have been reported. They happen several months to years after injection, it is treatable though.
