Botox is great at keeping new lines from forming, but perhaps you are looking for another approach to combat those deep lines and creases from previous years. Introducing the newest beauty boosting cosmetic injection: Sculptra. Unlike traditional facial fillers, this new treatment uses your own collagen cells to boost production and increase volume over time. The results? A youthful look that looks effortless, natural, and keeps everyone wondering what you did! Here is everything you need to know about Sculptra.
What are Sculptra facial injections?
Sculptra is an FDA-approved cosmetic injectable that helps to increase skin volume by stimulating cells deep in the dermis layers. It works with your body to naturally increase collagen production over time, promoting a decrease in wrinkles and sagging skin, while increasing elasticity and a youthful appearance.
Sculptra was originally used to treat Lipoatrophy, a degenerative condition that causes facial fat loss producing sunken cheeks and deep folds and indentations on the face. While not many have this condition, most people do experience the same type of collagen loss, wrinkles, and sallow look naturally with age.
How does Sculptra work to increase collagen production?
Sculptra is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that helps your body produce its own collagen. The active ingredient is a synthetic, biodegradable material called poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which actively promotes collagen creation in your skin. Once injected, it works with your body in the deep dermis layer to restore volume and structure over time.
As the PLLA microparticles are absorbed by the body, they immediately begin revitalizing your collagen production. With time – normally around 6 weeks – the newly built collagen strands start to restore facial volume and help add fullness to facial cavities like wrinkles and folds. The results are more subtle and natural-looking because the injection does not produce an immediate effect.
What’s the difference between Sculptra and Botox or Juvederm?
There are many cosmetic fillers available out there, and it is important to understand the difference of each one and how they fit into your anti-aging beauty plan. Here’s the difference between Scluptra and other injections:
- Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic (collagen stimulator) injectable that helps gradually replace lost collagen to provide results for up to two years.
- Botox is a bacterial toxin injectable that temporarily paralyzes facial muscles between 2-8 months to stop wrinkles from forming.
- Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus are both hyaluronic acid fillers used to provide volume to areas of the face or lips for up to 6-12 months.
How long is a Sculptra treatment at the Medical Spa?
Once determined to be a candidate, your Sculptra vial(s) will be mixed and reconstituted for approximately 1 week. Upon returning for your treatment, your sculptra session will take 15-20 minutes. Prior to the injections being made, our experienced team will discuss your facial concerns and make recommendations on the best course of treatment for boosting your beauty. Our goal is to always help you feel informed and confident in your facial filler decisions!
There is no special preparation or recovery period needed before you can go back to normal activities, though we do recommend keeping cardio activities to a minimum for 48 hours. There is a possibility of bruising with this treatment so if this is your first time, consider booking your treatment prior to a low key weekend or down time at work. Keep in mind that when you leave your treatment, you will likely look ‘overfilled’. Do not worry! This is due to the solution that the PLLA is reconstituted in, and will decrease within 24 hours.
When will I see results from a Sculptra injection?
Unlike other facial injections, the effects of Sculptra are gradual. Within a period of 6-8 weeks you will start to see an increase in volume, an improvement in folds and wrinkles, as well as a plumper, more youthful appearance.
On average, three injection appointments are needed to achieve a noticeable effect on volume and fullness. Typically these sessions are spread out about six weeks apart, but depending on your age and how much collagen you have lost, that timeframe may increase or decrease.
Remember, Sculptra is not a quick fix. The results of this injection differ from person to person and retreatments may be needed after 1-2 years. The providers at our medical spa in Newport Beach will discuss the right treatment plan based on your needs.
Are you ready for Sculptra?
If you’re reading this then chances are, yes! Sculptra is a helpful procedure for anyone who wants to restore volume and fullness to their face. Contact our team today and schedule your free consultation to learn how we can help you achieve your beauty goals.
