What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is provided in a vial containing Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) powder, which is a synthetic polymer that is biocompatible (readily accepted by the body) and biodegradable (safely broken down by the body).

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What is the mechanism of action of Sculptra?

Upon injection beneath the skin, Sculptra induces a subclinical inflammatory response that encourages collagen deposition in the extracellular matrix, facilitating soft-tissue augmentation. Sculptra effectively restores volume loss in the concave areas of the cheeks and temples, leading to the rejuvenation of wrinkles, folds, and deep furrows, such as nasolabial folds. The resulting restoration of facial volume occurs in a controlled and predictable manner, providing long-lasting effects.

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How is Sculptra prepared prior to injection?

Sculptra must be reconstituted (mixed) with sterile water to achieve a total dilution of 9cc (8cc of sterile water plus 1cc of xylocaine) for facial injections. For neck injections, it is reconstituted to a total dilution of 18cc (16cc of sterile water plus 2cc of xylocaine). The reconstituted Sculptra should be allowed to hydrate for 72 hours before injection, and the xylocaine is added immediately before the injection.

What can you anticipate during a Sculptra injection?

The Sculptra injection is a non-surgical medical procedure that necessitates specific training, knowledge, and skill to ensure safe treatment and natural-looking results. The process begins with a consultation, during which you will meet with our cosmetic doctor to discuss your medical history (including allergies, skin and neurological conditions, or medications), as well as your concerns and goals. Initially, the area will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic will be applied to numb the region before the injection. Our doctor will then inject a precise amount of Sculptra strategically into the deep dermis (skin) or the subcutaneous (under the skin) layer using a needle or cannula, ensuring that the surface area to be treated during that session is adequately covered. You may notice some improvement immediately after receiving Sculptra injections, but the complete effects of Sculptra will become apparent over time.

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Who is not considered a suitable candidate for Sculptra injection? (Contraindications)

Sculptra may not be suitable for individuals with specific conditions, including bleeding disorders, certain neurological disorders, pregnancy or breastfeeding, use of blood thinners, known allergies or hypersensitivity to the filler materials or the lidocaine mixed in the syringe, and active infections near the injection site.

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What are the risks associated with dermal Sculptra injection?

Common risks include:

• Bruising

• Redness

• Swelling

• Pain

• Rash

Less common risks include :

• Inflammation

• Infection

• Allergic reaction

• Necrosis (tissue death).

This is the most severe risk linked to Sculptra injection, occurring when the material is inadvertently injected into a blood vessel, leading to skin necrosis (tissue death), stroke, or blindness. Although the likelihood of this occurring is very low, if it does, the resulting complications can be serious and potentially permanent.

What should be avoided prior to Sculptra injection?

• Refrain from using any blood-thinning agents or supplements, including St. John’s Wort,

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking for approximately 24 hours before your procedure.

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What should be avoided following Sculptra injection?

• Do not sleep on your face.

• Do not apply makeup.

• Avoid exposure to hot temperatures.

• Do not consume alcohol on the day of treatment and try to refrain from it for 2 days afterward.

• Avoid exercising for 2 days or until swelling has subsided.

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What is the aftercare for Sculptra?

To further improve the distribution of the product, you are advised to massage using the “rule of 5s”: 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days.

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When can the results of Sculptra be observed?

It is important to recognize that treatment is gradual, requiring multiple sessions (at least three sessions spaced 4 weeks apart) and periodic maintenance (once a year) for lasting effects.

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What distinguishes dermal fillers from Sculptra as a method of volume restoration?

Sculptra promotes collagen production for gradual, long-lasting results while dermal fillers provide immediate volume enhancement by physically filling in areas of volume loss with substances like hyaluronic acid. 

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