Sculptra
SCULPTRA®
Collagen is a key structural component under the skin that provides volume, keeping skin looking youthful. Over time, our bodies make less collagen and our skin loses its elasticity and volume. This, along with environmental factors like sun exposure, lead to the appearance of wrinkles, lines and folds.
Anti-aging creams containing collagen cannot get below the surface of the skin to replace lost collagen. But, Sculptra® can.
Sculptra® works deep under the skin to naturally stimulate the body to produce its own collagen. As lost collagen is replaced, Sculptra® gradually increases or restores volume to correct your wrinkles and folds. Over a series of treatments, your new youthful look emerges, so it is subtle and natural-looking. Plus, results can last over 2 years.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
ABOUT SCULPTRA®?
What is Sculptra®?
Sculptra® is an aesthetic treatment suitable for increasing the volume of depressed areas, particularly to help correct skin depressions, such as in skin creases, wrinkles, folds and scars, and helps combat skin aging. Sculptra® is also suitable for large volume corrections of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) as well as addressing décolleté and improving cellulite. Sculptra® is made of a synthetic polymer called poly-L-lactic acid, which works to replace lost collagen. It is biocompatible and biodegradable (absorbed naturally by the body).
How does Sculptra® work?
Sculptra® targets one of the underlying causes of the signs of aging: collagen loss. During the course of your Sculptra® treatments, collagen is gradually replaced and volume is restored. Over time, you may notice that your wrinkles, creases and folds are smoothed.
What parts of the face does Sculptra® treat?
Sculptra® helps to correct skin depressions, such as in skin creases, wrinkles, folds, scars, and helps combat skin aging.
Are the results from Sculptra® immediate?
No. Because Sculptra® targets the underlying causes of the signs of facial aging, it can give you noticeable results that emerge subtly. Because results happen gradually, you may notice subtle reductions in the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds.
How do I know if Sculptra® is right for me?
Sculptra® may be right for you if you want:
- Gradual effects that work over time.
- A treatment that replaces lost collagen and restores volume.
- Proven results that can last over 2 years
What Are Possible Side Effects?
Immediately following a Sculptra® injection, redness, swelling and/or bruising may occur at the injection site. Injection-related swelling typically resolves within several hours to a few days. Patients treated with anticoagulants may run the risk of hematoma (blood spot under the skin) or localized bleeding at the injection site.
Small papules (solid bumps) in the treatment area may occur. These subcutaneous (beneath the skin) papules are typically not visible and may be noticed only upon pressing on the treatment area. Visible nodules (small rounded lumps) or areas of induration have been noted in the injection area and are occasionally associated with inflammation or discolouration.
The type and duration of side effects may vary. Discuss with your doctor all potential risks prior to treatment. Report any issues to your doctor.
Who should not use Sculptra®?
You should not use Sculptra ® if you are allergic and/or have hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. You should not be treated when you have an active skin infection or inflammation in or near the treatment area, or if you have a known history or susceptibility to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring.
Cosmetic injectable of any kind are generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Who can administer Sculptra®?
Sculptra® should only be used by healthcare practitioners who have appropriate training and experience.
About Your Sculptra® Treatment at Northshore Medical Clinic:
We recommend a consultation in person as your doctor will need to examine you to decide the appropriate number of treatment sessions and the amount of Sculptra® you need. The number of injections will vary depending on your needs and the results expected which will be discussed during your consultation.
It is recommended that you see your doctor no sooner than 4 weeks after the initial injection session to determine if additional treatment is needed. Keep in mind that the original skin depression may initially reappear, but the depression should gradually improve within several weeks as the treatment effect of Sculptra® occurs. At the first consultation, your doctor will advise you of the potential need for additional injection sessions.
What should I do after each Sculptra® treatment?
To help ensure safe use and obtain optimal results, it is important that you comply with the aftercare instructions provided by your doctor.
Here are 4 simple things to do after each session:
- Have an Ice Pack Ready – Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a clean cloth) to the treated area every once in a while after treatment to minimize swelling and/or bruising. Avoid direct contact of the ice with the skin.
- Give Yourself Facial Massages – Thoroughly massage the treated area in a circular fashion for 5 minutes, 5x/day for 5 days after each treatment. This helps to evenly distribute Sculptra and promote a natural-looking correction.
- Avoid Excess Sunlight and UV Exposure – Minimize exposure of the treated area to excessive sun and avoid ultraviolet lamp exposure until any initial swelling and redness have disappeared.
- Carefully Consider Other Procedures – If you have laser treatment, chemical peeling or any other skin procedure based on active dermal response after treatment, there is a possible risk of eliciting an inflammatory reaction at the implant site. This also applies if Sculptra® is administered before the skin has healed completely after these procedures.