What is Sculptra Aesthetic?
Sculptra Aesthetic is an FDA-approved injectable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) that helps gradually replace lost collagen, an underlying cause of facial aging. Sculptra is injected into the skin and underlying tissues to help correct skin depressions, such as creases, wrinkles, folds, scars, hollow eye rings, degenerative skin aging, and facial lipoatrophy (loss of fat).
How it Works
As a poly-L-lactic acid collagen stimulator, Sculptra Aesthetic is different. It works with your body within the deep dermis, rather than topically, to help revitalize collagen production and help restore your skin’s inner structure and volume. As the Sculptra Aesthetic PLLA microparticles are absorbed, they help stimulate collagen production. Rebuilt collagen strands gradually begin to help restore facial volume and the look of fullness to wrinkles and folds.
Sculptra (Poly-L-lactic acid) is a biocompatible (does not harm the body), biodegradable (broken down or metabolized by the body), synthetic polymer from the alpha-hydroxy-acid family (fruit acids). Poly-L-lactic acid has been used medically for many years in dissolvable stitches and does not require pre-treatment skin testing for allergies.
Results
An important fact to remember about injectable fillers such as Sculptra, is that the results are not permanent. Injected material is eventually metabolized by the body and you should not expect the same long-lasting results that may be gained from cosmetic surgery. Researchers believe that age, genetic background, skin quality and lifestyle as well as the injected body site may all play a role in the injected material’s “staying power.” However, the precise reason for the variation of results among patients has yet to be identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sculptra the right treatment for me?
Facial rejuvenation is very individualized. That’s why it’s important to discuss your hopes and expectations with a Board Certified Dermatologist who has experience with many different types of surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. During your initial consultation, your dermatologist will evaluate your face – the skin, the muscles and the underlying bone – and discuss your treatment goals. Your doctor will help you select a treatment option based on your goals and concerns, your anatomy and your lifestyle.
How long does sculptra last?
Depending on the area, condition treated and the volume of Sculptra used, the effect of the treatment may last from one to two years, but in some cases, the duration can be shorter or longer. Most areas of treatment will require two to four sessions, usually at three to six week intervals, for optimal correction. Results appear gradually over the treatment regime and can last up to two years. Because individual responses to Sculptra may vary, the exact number of treatment sessions required cannot be predicted with complete accuracy. Additionally, in order to maintain the desired degree of correction, intermittent touch-up treatments may be needed.
What are the possible side effects of sculptra?
Common injection-related reactions may include swelling, redness, pain, itching, discoloration, and tenderness at the injection site. These typically resolve spontaneously, usually within one to 15 days after injection. Initial swelling (edema) will be noticeable for at least several hours and perhaps as long as several days. This effect is temporary and does not affect the long-term tissue response.
Where can I learn more about Sculptra aesthetic?
Aspire Galderma Rewards Program – For further savings on Sculptra Aesthetic treatments, sign up for Aspire Galderma Rewards, Galderma’s rewards program online or in our Sacramento office.