Sculptra® is an extremely effective injectable dermal filler designed to add volume to the face and augment features affected by facial fat loss, or lipoatrophy. Many individuals experience a hollow or sunken appearance in the cheeks, temples, or around the eyes as a result of the natural aging process, which Sculptra® can address by reestablishing a new framework for collagen production and restoring a more youthful, contoured aesthetic. Facial plastic surgeons J. David Kriet, MD, FACS and Clinton D. Humphrey, MD, FACS offer Sculptra® treatments to stimulate the body’s own natural collagen production for increased facial volume and the appearance of smoother, healthier skin.
What is Sculptra® Aesthetic?
Sculptra® is an FDA-approved injectable treatment for facial hollowness. It is made of a biocompatible, synthetic material consisting of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). As individuals age, a loss of collagen is one of the most prominent reasons for decreased facial volume and other visible signs of facial aging. To combat this deficit, the Sculptra® solution is designed to stimulate the growth of new collagen with the goal of replenishing volume in facial features over time. Depending on your unique needs, Sculptra® can generally:
- Provide subtle volume enhancement in sunken or hollow areas of the face
- Stimulate the body’s natural collagen synthesis and production
- Improve the appearance of shallow to deep facial creases, such as the nasolabial folds (“smile lines”), marionette lines, and chin wrinkles
Rather than topically filling individual wrinkles, Sculptra® works in the underlying structure of the skin to replace lost collagen and provide a revitalized foundation for gradual volume restoration. Each procedure typically lasts only 30 minutes and a series of treatments is often ideal for the best results.
What is Sculptra® Aesthetic Treatment Like?
Sculptra® procedures involve injections into targeted areas of the face with a fine needle. The number of injections and sessions required to achieve your desired aesthetic will depend on your cosmetic goals, as well as the amount of collagen lost and your unique anatomic needs. During a consultation, Drs. Kriet or Humphrey will listen to your concerns and help you determine the number of sessions necessary to attain an optimal outcome based on your reasons for treatment.
Once your treatment plan is confirmed, Sculptra® is strategically injected into the deep dermis using a fine needle. The PLLA microparticles found in the Sculptra® formula are absorbed, progressively rebuilding the collagen strands that work to restore volume to creases and sunken areas. The treatment site(s) may be massaged after injection to allow an even distribution of PLLA microparticles. As the steady process of renewed collagen production advances, most patients begin to see visible results a few weeks after treatment. The best outcomes are usually experienced after completion of a full treatment plan consisting of multiple sessions.
Patients will likely experience some mild redness, bruising, and swelling after Sculptra® treatment for a few days after injections. Ice packs and oral pain medications can typically manage discomfort until these side effects resolve. Additionally, following our surgeons’ detailed instructions for post-treatment care can help to alleviate any concerns. Most people are able to return to work and other activities immediately following the procedure.
Results of Sculptra® Aesthetic
Results from Sculptra® treatments are usually not immediate, but patients should see significant enhancement in facial features over time as new collagen continues to grow. While the cosmetic outcome will vary by patient, the general result is a look of increased fullness in regions affected by volume deficits, wrinkling, or facial folds. The outcome yielded by Sculptra® injections is known to last up to two years in some cases. While the natural aging process will continue, results can be maintained with occasional touch-up treatments.
Contact Dr. J. David Kriet and Dr. Clinton D. Humphrey to schedule your consultation for Sculptra® today.