Sculptra

Sculptra is Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) that comes in a powder form and is then reconstituted to be injected into the skin. Sculptra sets itself apart from dermal fillers because it stimulates our bodies natural ability to produce collagen. Sculptra works in collaboration with your bodies natural ability to produce collagen and restore the inner structures and foundation of your skin. Unfortunately, our bodies stop producing collagen around the age of 20 and amount that we have continues to degrade as we age. Collagen is what keeps our skin appearing tight, smooth, thick, and wrinkle free. Due to this mechanism of action, Sculptra results are gradual and are proven to last for 2+ years.

Sculptra is a Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) which is a widely researched and safe polymer commonly used in biodegradable medical products. In simple terms, PLLA is a synthetic substance created to mimic lactic acid, a natural product produced in our muscles after exercise. PLLA consists of lactic acid molecules joined together in strings, forming a polymer.

Polylactic acid, or PLLA, has been successfully employed for over 25 years in dissolvable stitches, bone screws, plates, and even as a means of medication administration. It has now been utilized as an injectable solution known as Sculptra, which stimulates collagen production.

The injected Sculptra particles act as a scaffold, triggering the body’s natural collagen synthesis process. As new collagen forms, it gradually restores lost volume, improves skin texture, and enhances overall appearance.

It’s like buying vs. renting the volume that you need. With filler you “rent” the volume for a period of time (generally 12 months). With Sculptra you invest upfront and benefit long term, studies show up to 2+ years.

Filler leaves you with near-immediate results, whereas Sculptra results improve your appearance over the course of several months. This allows you to age in reverse while maintaining a natural appearance that can go virtually undetectable due to the slower progression. It takes approximately 3-6 months to see full results.

The best treatment plan is typically Sculptra used in conjunction with dermal fillers. I prefer that patients complete Sculptra treatments to ‘full correction’ prior to utilizing dermal fillers which minimizes the amount of filler needed and maximizes the overall longevity & natural appearance of your desired result.

Generally, a good rule of thumb is 1 vial per decade of life.

30’s = 3 vials, 40’s = 4 vials, 50’s = 5 vials.

Your first session is typically 2 vials and treatments are repeated 6-8 weeks apart until full restoration or desired results are achieved.

Be sure to plan your treatment around any major events. Bruising is always possible so we recommend planning your treatment at least 3-4 weeks before any important events. Keeping in mind that Sculptra results are gradual, so if you are looking for results to be apparent for a specific event- we recommend beginning your treatment plan a few months prior.

One week prior: avoid blood thinning OTC medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking 24 hours before treatment.