Starting at around age 30, we start to lose collagen and therefore the elasticity in our skin. Wrinkles and hollow areas of volume loss start to form. This is where Sculptra® comes in – yet another tool for facial rejuvenation by means of replenishing volume.

Sculptra consists of small, powdered particles of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). We suspend these particles (1 vial) in 5 cc of sterile water, and unlike other fillers previously discussed, Sculptra is injected in liquid form. On average 2 vials are used per treatment. As a result of the treatment, the face looks well filled in, however the effect somewhat subsides over the next 2 days, and over the following 8 weeks the Sculptra particles stimulate your own collagen production. On average patients require 3 treatments 8 weeks apart.

The injection technique is also quite different from injecting other fillers. Where gel fillers like Juvederm® are injected right into the wrinkle, a “fanning” or cross-hatching technique is used to cover large areas of volume loss. Sculptra is also our favorite for injecting the temple area which can appear very hollow and “aged”.

It is imperative to instruct patients to massage the injected areas for the following five days five times a day (the rule of 5′s) in order to ensure even distribution of the material and avoidance of forming lumps. Once the desired effect is achieved the results last 2-3 years.

Contact us to schedule your appointment for Sculptra® Aesthetic.