Sculptra

Sculptra® is a type of dermal filler that is used to correct facial wrinkles, folds and volume loss. Unlike traditional fillers that provide immediate volume, Sculptra® works by stimulating the body's natural collagen production, which helps to gradually restore volume and improve skin texture over time.

Sculptra® is commonly used to treat deep lines and folds, such as nasolabial folds (smile lines) and marionette lines (lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin). It can also be used to restore volume in areas such as the cheeks and temples.

How are Sculptra® and HA fillers different?

Composition

• Sculptra®: Made from poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic material that stimulates collagen and elastin production in the skin.
• HA Fillers: Made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin that helps to hydrate and add volume.

Mechanism of Action

• Sculptra®:  Stimulates collagen production, gradually restoring volume and improving skin texture over time.
• HA Fillers:  Adds immediate volume to the treatment area, providing instant results.

Duration of Results

• Sculptra®:  Results develop gradually over several weeks and can last up to two years and a half years.
• HA Fillers:  Immediate results that can last from several months to a year, depending on the type of filler used.

Treatment Areas

• Sculptra®:  Often used for larger areas of the face that have lost volume, such as the cheeks and temples.
• HA Fillers:  Commonly used for specific wrinkles and lines, as well as to add volume to lips and enhance facial contours.

Number of Treatments

• Sculptra®:  Requires a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results.
• HA Fillers:  May require fewer treatments, depending on the extent of correction needed.

Cost

• Sculptra®:  May be more costly than HA fillers, primarily due to the need for multiple treatments.  However, Sculptra® is likely more cost-effective in the long-run because the results are typically much longer-lasting.
• HA Fillers:  Generally more cost-effective for immediate results, but costs can vary depending on the type of filler used.

Side Effects

• Sculptra® and HA Fillers:  Both can cause temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own.

In summary, Sculptra® and HA fillers are both effective options for addressing signs of aging in the skin, but they differ in terms of composition, mechanism of action, duration of results, treatment areas, number of treatments required, cost, and side effects. The choice between Sculptra® and HA fillers depends on individual needs and goals, and it's best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment option.

Why would I choose Sculptra® over HA fillers?

Choosing Sculptra® over hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers depends on your aesthetic goals, preferences, and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. Here are some reasons why you might choose Sculptra®:

Longevity

Sculptra® can provide results that last up to two and a half years, compared to HA fillers, which typically last several months to a year. If you're looking for long-lasting results, Sculptra® may be a better option.

Collagen Stimulation

Sculptra® works by stimulating collagen and elastin production in the skin, which can lead to gradual and natural-looking results. If you prefer a treatment that enhances your body's natural collagen production, Sculptra® may be more suitable.

Volume Restoration

Sculptra® is often used to restore volume in larger areas of the face, such as the cheeks and temples, where HA fillers may not be as effective. If you need significant volume restoration, Sculptra® may be the better choice.

Gradual Results

Sculptra® provides gradual results that develop over several weeks, giving you a more subtle and natural-looking improvement. If you prefer a more gradual transformation, Sculptra® may be preferable to HA fillers.

Cost-Effectiveness

While Sculptra® may initially be more costly than HA fillers, its long-lasting results may make it more cost-effective in the long run, as fewer maintenance treatments may be needed.

Customizable Treatment

Sculptra® treatments can be customized to address your specific concerns and achieve your desired results. Your healthcare provider can tailor the treatment to meet your individual needs.

The Sculptra® Procedure

Preparation

Your skin will be cleansed, and a topical numbing cream may be applied to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.

Injection: Using a fine needle, your healthcare provider will inject Sculptra® into the targeted areas of your face. The number of injections and the amount of Sculptra® used will depend on your individual treatment plan.

Massage

After the injections, your provider will gently massage the treated areas to distribute the product evenly and prevent any lumps or bumps from forming.

Post-Treatment Care

You will be given instructions on how to care for your skin after the procedure. This may include avoiding sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.  You will be asked to massage the treated areas according to the rules of 5:  5 times a day for 5 minutes for 5 days.

Side Effects

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with Sculptra®, including redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site. It's important to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.

Follow-Up

You should return for a follow-up appointment in 4-6 weeks to assess your results and determine if any additional treatments are needed.

When will I see the results of my Sculptra® treatment?

The results of Sculptra® are not immediate and develop gradually over time. Most people begin to see improvements in their skin texture and volume within a few weeks to months after their first treatment session. However, the full effects of Sculptra® may take several months to become apparent as collagen production increases.

Many people undergo a series of Sculptra® treatments spaced several weeks apart to achieve their desired results. The number of treatments needed varies depending on individual factors such as the extent of volume loss, the areas being treated, and the desired results.

It's important to have realistic expectations about the results of Sculptra®. While it can provide significant improvements in skin texture and volume, the results are not permanent and may gradually diminish over time. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to maintain your results.  Generally, one maintenance treatment per year is needed — usually with a smaller amount of product — to preserve seamless results.

It's best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your skin and provide you with a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals. They can also give you a better idea of when you can expect to see the results of Sculptra® based on your specific treatment plan.

How many vials and how many treatments of Sculptra® will I need?

The number of vials of Sculptra® needed and the number of treatments required vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of volume loss, the areas being treated, and the desired results. In general, most people require multiple vials of Sculptra® per treatment session.

For example, treating both cheeks and temples may require anywhere from 2 to 4 vials of Sculptra® per session. Some individuals may require more vials to achieve their desired results, especially if they have significant volume loss or are treating multiple areas of the face.

Sculptra® typically requires a series of treatments spaced four to six weeks apart to achieve optimal results. On average, most people undergo two to three treatment sessions to achieve their desired results. However, the exact number of vials and treatments needed can vary based on age and other individual factors, as well as desired results.  It's best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your specific needs and recommend the appropriate treatment plan for you.

How much does Sculptra® cost?

Sculptra® costs $900 per vial.

Who performs Sculptra® injections at Glendale Whole Health?

Dr. Speller is a Certified Aesthetic Provider™, having been trained by the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM).  She is happy to provide injections of Sculptra®, as well as dermal fillers and botulinum toxin type A to patients who are desirous of enhancing their appearance in a subtle, natural fashion.

Ready to regain a more youthful appearance of your skin in a natural, gradual fashion with Sculptra®?  

Click here to book your appointment now or call (818) 551-0464!