Treatments/Injectables
Sculptra, a slower kind of volume.
Instead of filling a space, Sculptra prompts your skin to rebuild collagen. The change is gradual, which is exactly why people choose it.
30–45 minin the chair
6–8 weeksbefore it starts to show
Up to 2 yrsfrom a full series
What it is
Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid, a material the body absorbs. It's placed in the deeper layers of the skin, where it prompts your own cells to make new collagen.
Because your body does the building, results arrive slowly over a few months. Most people need two or three sessions a few weeks apart. Once the series is done, the result can last two years or more.
What it can do for you
Sculptra works on broad areas where collagen has thinned with age.
- Hollow temples look fuller.
- Flattened cheeks regain some of their shape.
- The jawline looks firmer as the skin thickens.
- Skin quality can improve across the treated area.
Is it right for me?
Sculptra suits people who want a gradual change and can wait for it. It's less suited to lips or a quick change before an event. Your provider will tell you if filler would serve you better.
Not recommended if
You're pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active skin infection in the area, have a condition that affects healing or tends to form raised scars, or are allergic to any of Sculptra's ingredients.
Who does your treatment
A plan from a nurse practitioner.
Brooke, our nurse practitioner injector, plans your series before the first session. She spaces the visits and checks your progress each time.
Before and after your appointment
A few simple guidelines.
The week before
- If your doctor agrees, pause fish oil, vitamin E and anti-inflammatories for about a week.
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours beforehand.
- Come with a clean face. We'll remove any makeup before we start.
The five days after
- Massage the treated area for five minutes, five times a day, for five days. We'll show you how.
- Swelling in the first day or two is mostly the fluid Sculptra is mixed with, not the result.
- Avoid hard workouts and saunas for a day.
- Bruising or tenderness can last a few days.
- Expect to see a change from about six to eight weeks.
Questions
The ones we hear most.
How is Sculptra different from filler?
Filler adds volume the day it's placed. Sculptra prompts your body to make its own collagen, so the change builds over months and tends to last longer.
Why does Sculptra look full at first, then go down?
The fluid Sculptra is mixed with causes swelling for a day or two. Once that's absorbed, the collagen starts building in its place.
Is one session of Sculptra enough?
Usually not. Most people need two or three, a few weeks apart. Your provider will suggest a number at your consultation.
Why do I have to massage my face after Sculptra?
Massage helps spread the product evenly under the skin. It lowers the chance of small lumps forming.
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