Injected into the deep dermis layer of the skin, Sculptra® provides a gradual and significant increase in skin thickness, improving the appearance of folds and sunken areas. Note that Sculptra® does not treat lipoatrophy, but it does compensate for its effects.
Sculptra’s main component is an alpha hydroxy acid called poly-L-lactic acid, or PLLA. It is safe, synthetic, biocompatible, biodegradable and long-lasting. PLLA has been used for more than 20 years in many surgical products, including dissolvable sutures and soft tissue implants.
Candidates for Sculptra®
Sculptra is FDA-approved for the treatment of aging, wrinkled facial skin, and is considered safe and effective for most patients seeking to achieve a more youthful, natural-looking appearance with subtle, yet noticeable results. Sculptra should not be used in patients who have active skin infections or inflammation in the area to be treated, or who are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Sculptra® Treatment
At your Sculptra® treatment session, you will be asked to remove any makeup, and the area of skin to be treated will be swabbed clean. You and your doctor will discuss whether to use a local or topical anesthetic to minimize any discomfort. Then, your doctor will administer Sculptra® in a series of injections with a very fine needle. Afterwards, you will be given an ice pack to reduce swelling. It is important to massage the treated area to ensure that the material is evenly distributed beneath the skin.
Results of Sculptra®
Sculptra’s effects are not immediate. Improvement in skin volume occurs gradually.
More than one treatment may be necessary to achieve the best results. Patients with more severe lipoatrophy generally need additional injections. In your follow-up appointment a few weeks after your first Sculptra® session, your doctor will determine whether you need a touch-up treatment.