What is Sculptra?
Sculptra® is a dermal filler that helps stimulate the body’s natural collagen production to restore lost facial volume over time. Unlike other fillers that offer immediate results, Sculptra works gradually over a series of treatments to provide a more natural-looking and long-lasting effect.
Where is Sculptra injected?
- Sunken cheeks – Sculptra helps restore volume, giving cheeks a more youthful appearance.
- Sunken temples – Injection here restores the roundness and fullness of the temples.
- Facial jowls and marionette lines – These are lines running from the mouth to the chin. Sculptra reduces their appearance.
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines) – Sculptra diminishes the appearance of deep-set lines between the nose and mouth.
- Facial jaw – Enhances the jawline, providing a more contoured look.
- Décolletage – Helps in minimizing the appearance of wrinkles on the chest area.
- Buttocks – Adds volume and contour.
- Hip Dips – Fills in the inward curve along the sides of the hips.
- Hands – Restores volume, reducing the prominence of veins and tendons.
- Inner arms – Addresses sagging and wrinkling.
- Upper knees – Improves the skin texture and appearance.
Who might choose to get Sculptra?
Sculptra is an option for a diverse range of individuals looking to address specific aesthetic concerns. Those who might consider this treatment include:
- Females: Women seeking to restore facial volume, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, or rejuvenate specific areas of the body.
- Males: Men who are looking to enhance facial contours, diminish facial lines, or improve skin texture.
- Individuals over 40 years old: As we age, the natural production of collagen decreases, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, and reduced facial volume. Those over 40 might choose Sculptra to combat these signs of aging and restore a youthful appearance.
What is Sculptra® made of?
Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable synthetic material that has been used in medicine for many years.
The unique composition of Sculptra allows it to work differently from other fillers. Once injected, PLLA micro-particles stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. This process helps in gradually restoring facial volume and improving skin texture. Over time, as the PLLA particles are absorbed, they are replaced by the body’s own collagen, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin. This collagen stimulation is the primary reason why the results of Sculptra treatments are long-lasting and appear more natural than results from some other fillers. It’s particularly effective for deeper wrinkles and volume loss, making it an excellent treatment option for rejuvenating aging skin.
Procedure for Sculptra?
- Consultation: The first step involves consulting with a professional to ensure Sculptra is the right choice.
- Cleaning the Area: The targeted area is cleaned to prevent any infections..
- Injection Procedure: A canula is used to spread the solution evenly, and painlessly throughout the area.
- Controlled Injury: This prompts the body to produce new collagen.
- Massage: The treated area may be massaged to evenly distribute the product.
- Aftercare Advice: Instructions for post-treatment care are given.
What is the recovery time from Sculptra injections?
Generally, recovery from Sculptra injections is minimal. Some patients might experience swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites which usually subsides within a few days to a week. Most people can return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure.
FAQs
1. What is Sculptra and how does it work?
Sculptra’s results develop over a timeperiod of between 6 to 9 months as collagen production is enhanced, giving a more natural appearance.
2. How long do the effects of Sculptra last?
The effects of Sculptra can last up to two years or longer for some individuals. Its longevity is attributed to the stimulation of collagen, which provides lasting structural support to the skin.
3. What is Sculptra made of?
Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic material that has been safely used in medical procedures for decades.
4. Is Sculptra safe? What are the potential side effects?
When administered by trained professionals like those at Lasersense, Sculptra is generally safe. Common side effects, usually transient, include swelling, redness, pain, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site. Rarely, there might be lumps or bumps under the skin.
5. How is Sculptra different from other dermal fillers?
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that provide immediate volume, Sculptra works over time by stimulating collagen production. This results in a more gradual, natural-looking enhancement that lasts longer.
6. Can Sculptra be used in combination with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, many patients at Lasersense combine Sculptra with other cosmetic procedures. It’s essential to discuss your aesthetic goals with a specialist to determine the best combination for you.
7. How many treatments will I need to see results?
Typically, a series of 2-4 treatment sessions spread a few weeks apart are recommended. However, the exact number can vary based on individual needs and desired outcomes.
8. Is there any downtime after receiving Sculptra injections?
Generally, there is minimal downtime. Some might experience temporary redness, swelling, or bruising, but most patients return to daily activities immediately after the procedure.
9. Will the injections be painful?
The discomfort level varies among individuals. However, Sculptra is often mixed with a local anesthetic to minimize pain, and specialists at Lasersense ensure the process is as comfortable as possible.
10. How soon will I start seeing results after the treatment?
Visible results develop gradually over several months as collagen is produced. Optimal results are typically observed a few months after the final treatment session.
11. Are there any specific post-treatment care instructions I should follow?
Post-treatment, it’s recommended to massage the treated area several times a day for a few days and avoid excessive sun and UV lamp exposure.
12. Is Sculptra suitable for all skin types?
Yes, Sculptra is generally suitable for all skin types. However, a consultation with Lasersense experts will determine if it’s the right treatment for your specific needs.
13. Can Sculptra be used for both face and body treatments?
While Sculptra is primarily used for facial treatments, it can also be applied to certain areas of the body to address concerns like cellulite or volume loss.
14. How much does a Sculptra treatment typically cost?
The cost of Sculptra is R6500 per treatment for face, It’s best to consult with Lasersense for an accurate quote tailored to your needs.
15. Can Sculptra be dissolved or removed if I don’t like the results?
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra cannot be immediately dissolved. However, its effects are not permanent and will gradually fade over time as the PLLA particles are naturally metabolized by the body.