Sculptra® for Wrinkles

About Sculptra® Aesthetic

Sculptra is intended for the restoration and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy). Sculptra has been clinically proven to be an effective, well tolerated, and long lasting treatment for signs of facial lipoatrophy. Sculptra, also known as the liquid facelift, works by both filling in lines and wrinkles, as well as stimulating the body to produce new collagen in the underlying tissue, thereby creating a fuller more youthful appearance.

Sculptra, a new FDA approved filler,  is an injectable form of poly-L-lactic acid, a biodegradable, biocompitable synthetic polymer from the alpha-hydroxy-acid family that has been widely used for many years in dissolvable sutures, bone screws, and facial implants.

Benefits

• Restores fullness of the face, creating a more natural appearance
• Treats the deepest wrinkles
• Provides a 3-fold increase in skin thickness
• Increases the dermal thickness, with persistence throughout a 2 year study
• Clinically proven safe and well tolerated
• Synthetic “Man made” molecule that is not derived from an animal model
• Requires no skin test

Alternatives

Restylane, Perlane, Radiesse, Cosmoplast, Cosmoderm, Collagen as well as Laser Skin Resurfacing Fraxel Laser Treatments, Dermal Grafts, Lunchtime Laser Toning, One-Pass CO2 Resurfacing

How Does it Work?

Using a very fine needle, Sculptra is injected below the surface of the skin in the areas of fat loss, providing a gradual increase in skin thickness.

Who is a Candidate?

No allergy testing needed. Almost anyone can undergo these procedures.

What can I Expect?

Immediately after an injection, the depression or defect appears markedly improved due to the fact that much of what is injected is actually water.  Once the water is absorbed in a few days, patients unfortunately then note a reduction of the improvement.  During the following four to six weeks however, patients again see an improvement of their condition as collagen is stimulated to grow in and around the injected Sculptra particles.  Most patients should expect 3-4 sessions, depending on the depth of initial defect.  (Patients who suffer fat loss from HIV-associated lipodystophy should expect 4-6 sessions for their deeper defects). Once the desired look is achieved the semi-permanent treatment lasts up to two years. 

Results may vary.

Safety & Side Effects

Sculptra does not require skin testing prior to use, however patients should inform their doctor of any known allergies to the injected material.  As with most injections, side effects, though minimal, can occur.  The most common side effects are redness, swelling, bruising, and pain around the treated area. Thorough massage and ice packs after the procedure can minimize these effects.

Recovery Time

Usually none. Patients usually return to normal activity on the treatment day.

Does it Hurt?

Many individuals will desire an anesthetic injection to prevent pain.

Before Treatment Instructions

Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, Motrin, Advil, and Excedrin for 10-14 days prior to the procedure to help prevent bruising.

After Treatment Instructions

Patients should massage the treated areas with their fingers five times a day, five minutes each time for five days (5-5-5).

Who Performs the Treatments?

Our Physicians, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses.