COLLAGEN BIOSTIMULATOR (Sculptra)
As we age, we loose collagen. The loss of collagen—a key protein that keeps skin firm, smooth, and youthful—can lead to sagging, fine lines, and a hollow appearance. A recent study showed that skin collagen decreases linearly by about 1% per year throughout adult life, starting around age 20. Menopause accelerates collagen depletion, with as much as 30% loss over a span of 5 years. Unlike traditional dermal fillers that provide immediate volume, collagen biostimulators, like Sculptra, works with your body’s natural processes to restore facial structure and stimulate collagen production over time resulting in natural-looking and long-lasting outcomes that can last up to 2 years or more.
What Is Sculptra?
Sculptra is an FDA approved biostimulant injectable made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable, synthetic material that’s been safely used in medicine for decades. Unlike traditional fillers, Sculptra doesn’t simply “fill” wrinkles or hollows. Instead, it works beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate the production of collagen—the building block of plump, firm skin.
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When injected into targeted areas of the face the body recognizes the filler as a foreign body, which triggers the immune system and causes collagen production to increase at the injection site. The increased collagen in the area leads to more volume and improved skin texture at the treatment site, which helps to fill in wrinkles and provides augmentation and contouring. Sculptra helps restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and redefine facial contours. Over time, as collagen rebuilds, you’ll notice a gradual transformation that looks completely natural.
What Can Sculptra Treat?
While Sculptra is particularly effective for addressing hollow temples, sunken cheeks, deep nasolabial folds, ‘marionette lines’ and chin due to aging or weight loss. it is also known to support our skin’s collagen matrix, making it an excellent choice for younger patients looking to proactively support preventative aging. By stimulating natural collagen production, Sculptra provides gradual, long-lasting results that enhance the skin’s structure and resilience, making it ideal for those seeking a subtle yet enduring rejuvenation. Sculptra can be used to sculpt your face by restoring its natural contours, and by smoothing out wrinkles, creases, and folds. Additionally, skin radiance is positively affected with the use of Sculptra treatments.
What is the difference between Sculptra and fillers
Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable, synthetic material that stimulates collagen production, resulting in a gradual improvement in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines over time. The results look entirely natural as it works to improve any sagging, laxity, and wrinkles. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are made up of hyaluronic acid that add volume to the skin, resulting in an immediate improvement in appearance, but can look unnatural if too much is used or the placement is not quite right. Dermal fillers also do not improve the quality of the skin. Sculptra lasts for up to 2 years or longer while dermal fillers usually last for 6-12 months.
How Many Sessions of Sculptra do I need?
The number of biostimulator treatments required can vary depending on factors such as age, the severity of your concerns, and your individual response to treatment. Sculptra is typically administered over 2-3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal correction, with results visible at the 3-6 month timeframe post-treatment. Collagen bio-stimulators do not produce immediate results because it takes time for collagen to build.Collagen synthesis typically begins around 4 to 6 weeks after treatment and continues for several months. Sculptra results often last up to 18-24 months or even longer depending on factors such as your age, skin condition, lifestyle, and the number of treatment sessions you undergo. Some individuals may benefit from occasional touch-up treatments to maintain their desired results.
Preparing For Injections with Biostimulators
Preparing for injections with biostimulators (collagen stimulators) like Sculptra involves key steps to ensure the best possible results. It’s important to avoid blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, and ibuprofen) for about a week before your treatment to minimize bruising. You should also refrain from alcohol consumption 24-48 hours before your appointment and avoid certain supplements (like vitamin E, fish oil, Omega 3’s, and herbal remedies) that can increase bleeding risks. Additionally, inform your provider about any medical conditions or allergies, and arrive with a clean, makeup-free face on the day of your appointment to ensure a smooth procedure.
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What are the risks of this procedure?
As with all cosmetic procedures, there are risks or side effects that could happen, but they’re rare. The risks of Sculptra include:
Swelling.
Bruising
Skin discoloration.
Pain or discomfort.
Itching.
Bumps or lumps underneath your skin.
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After a Sculptra treatment, it is very possible that you may feel sore for the next day or two. If the pain is bothersome you can take Aleve, Ibuprofen, or your choice of OTC pain medication or can use ice for about 3-5 minutes a few times that day.
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Immediately after treatment your face is going to look extra full because of all the volume just added. This can contribute to a “swollen” appearance, but this will dissipate as soon as your body starts to absorb the excess fluid injected and the Sculptra starts to kick-in. A few days after treatment, you will look as you did before treatment. This is normal because Sculptra will replace lost collagen over time. The improvement comes slowly and gradually as collagen is being rebuilt.
What is the recovery time for a Sculptra injection?
Sculptra injections are noninvasive procedures, and the healing time is relatively quick compared to other cosmetic treatments. Your skin might be sore, and you could have light bruising at the injection site for a couple of days. Avoid exercising or strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after the injection. You’ll be well enough to return to your daily activities immediately after the procedure. The rule of 5-5-5 is very important and ensures the best possible results. Make sure you're massaging the injection sites at least 5 minutes at a time, 5 times a day, for 5 days after treatment. You can apply some sort of skincare product like moisturizer before each massage to give your skin some “slip”. Massaging helps distribute the product evenly and minimizes the risk of lumps or nodules forming.
Is there a contraindication to Sculptra?
Sculptra Aesthetic is indicated for use in people with healthy immune systems. It should not be used by people that are allergic to any ingredient of the product or have a history of keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring. Safety has not been established in patients who are pregnant, lactating, breastfeeding, or under 18 years of age.
