Sculptra Dermal Filler
Sculptra® is an innovative injectable treatment used to stimulate collagen production and augment areas of the face affected by fat loss (lipoatrophy)—particularly sunken cheeks, hollow eyes, and other indentations—creating a fuller, more youthful facial appearance. Because Sculptra stimulates the body to produce collagen, the results frequently last longer than with similar dermal fillers.
What You Should Know About Sculptra
In 2009, the U.S Food and Drug Administration approved Sculptra to treat lipoatrophy caused by aging or HIV.
Sculptra is a synthetic, biocompatible dermal filler that is injected beneath the surface of the skin to restore fullness to sunken areas of the face. The injections are non-surgical and do not require the administration of anesthesia. The procedure typically takes about half an hour, and results last for up to two years or longer.
Ideal candidates for Sculptra treatments include individuals who have deep folds around the nose and mouth, sunken cheeks, and/or loose and inelastic skin.
The Sculptra Treatment Technique
The Sculptra technique involves a series of injections into the treatment area in order to slowly build up the thickness of the lipoatrophic areas. The polylactic material is so safe that an allergy test is not required prior to the procedure. Sculptra does not require the use of a general anesthetic, though topical anesthesia reduces the discomfort associated with the injection process.
In order to achieve the desired results of Sculptra, it is necessary for a patient to undergo a series of treatments. The frequency and number of Sculptra treatments required depend largely on an individual’s physical condition and response.
Benefits of Sculptra include:
- Improved facial contouring and appearance
- Long-lasting results
- Minimally invasive procedure with little downtime
As with all cosmetic procedures, Sculptra does carry some risks including bruising, swelling, tenderness, and redness. Side effects, however, usually only last three to seven days. Tiny bumps may also develop under the skin, but these are rare if the patient follows post-treatment massage instructions, however, if it does occur, it is easily treated and often disappears on its own.
