Sculptra

Sculptra is an injectable collagen stimulator containing poly-L-lactic acid. It works by encouraging the body to produce new collagen within the treated tissues, gradually improving facial structure, firmness and skin quality.

It is different from a traditional dermal filler because its main purpose is to stimulate your own collagen rather than simply placing an immediate gel-like volume beneath the skin.

Once Sculptra is injected into the appropriate tissue plane, its poly-L-lactic acid particles create a controlled biostimulatory response. This activates fibroblasts and encourages the gradual production of new collagen.

The water used to prepare the product may create temporary fullness immediately after treatment. This usually settles within several days. The true Sculptra result then develops progressively as new collagen is produced.

Depending on your individual anatomy and clinical suitability, Sculptra may be used to improve:

• The temples
• Cheeks and mid-face
• Pre-auricular area
• Nasolabial folds
• Marionette region
• Jawline and lower face
• General facial volume loss
• Selected areas of skin laxity

Sculptra is not injected directly into the lips or the delicate area immediately beneath the eyes. A full consultation is required to determine which areas can be treated safely.

Sculptra can provide:

• Gradual and natural-looking rejuvenation
• Stimulation of the body’s own collagen
• Improved skin firmness and elasticity
• Better support for facial tissues
• Softening of facial lines and folds
• Restoration of age-related volume loss
• Improved facial contour and definition
• Long-lasting results
• A refreshed appearance without an obviously “filled” look

Sculptra is commonly grouped with injectable fillers, but it works differently from a traditional hyaluronic acid filler.

Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate volume by placing a gel beneath the skin. Sculptra is primarily a collagen biostimulator. It produces gradual improvement by encouraging your own tissues to create new collagen.

It may be possible to combine Sculptra with carefully selected dermal fillers when both gradual collagen stimulation and immediate structural correction are required.

Most clients require a course of approximately three treatment sessions, commonly spaced six to eight weeks apart. Some clients may require additional sessions depending on their age, facial anatomy, skin condition, degree of collagen or volume loss and desired outcome.

The amount of product required is determined individually. Nurse Maya will create a personalised treatment plan following your consultation and facial assessment.

Sculptra results are gradual. Some clients begin to notice improvement within the first month, but collagen production continues to develop over several months.

The face should appear progressively firmer, smoother and more refreshed rather than suddenly or dramatically altered. The final result is usually assessed several months after completing the recommended treatment course.

Results may last for up to two years, although this varies between individuals. Age, metabolism, lifestyle, general health, skin condition and the number of sessions completed can all influence longevity.

Maintenance treatment may be recommended to support the results.

You may notice some fullness immediately after treatment because of the sterile water used to prepare Sculptra. This initial fullness is temporary and normally reduces as the water is absorbed.

The true result develops gradually as your body produces new collagen. Sculptra should not be judged immediately after the appointment.

Most clients tolerate the procedure well. Sculptra may be prepared with lidocaine, where clinically appropriate, to help minimise discomfort. You may still experience pressure, stinging or tenderness during and after the injections.

Comfort measures will be discussed during your consultation.

Sculptra usually involves minimal downtime. Temporary swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising may occur and generally improves within several days.

Small injection marks can also be present immediately after treatment. Plan your appointment carefully if you have an important social event approaching, as bruising and swelling cannot be predicted.

Common temporary effects may include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Bruising
• Bleeding at the injection sites
• Itching
• Discomfort
• Temporary unevenness
• Palpable firmness or small lumps beneath the skin

Less commonly, delayed nodules, inflammatory reactions, infection, persistent swelling, skin discolouration or granuloma formation may occur.

As with any injectable procedure, rare but serious complications can include accidental injection into a blood vessel, vascular occlusion, tissue injury, scarring and visual disturbance. The treatment must therefore be performed by an appropriately trained and qualified medical practitioner.

You will receive detailed information about potential risks before providing informed consent.

Sculptra may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are under 18 years of age
• Have an active infection or inflammation near the treatment area
• Have a known allergy to any ingredient in the product
• Have a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
• Have an uncontrolled autoimmune or inflammatory condition
• Have a significant bleeding or clotting disorder
• Are taking medication that substantially increases bleeding risk
• Are currently unwell or receiving treatment that may affect healing or immune function
• Have previously experienced a serious reaction to an injectable implant

This list is not exhaustive. Please disclose your complete medical history, allergies, medication, supplements and previous aesthetic treatments during your consultation.

Before treatment:

• Avoid alcohol for approximately 24 hours where possible.
• Avoid non-essential supplements or medicines that may increase bruising, if medically safe to do so.
• Do not discontinue prescribed medication without speaking to the clinician who prescribed it.
• Arrive with clean skin and minimal or no makeup.
• Inform Nurse Maya if you develop illness, infection, dental problems, a skin breakout or inflammation before your appointment.
• Inform Nurse Maya if you develop illness, infection, dental problems, a skin breakout or inflammation before your appointment.
• Disclose any upcoming dental, medical or aesthetic procedures.

• Massage the treated areas for five minutes, five times a day, for five days, unless Nurse Maya advises you differently.
• Wash your hands before performing the massage.
• Apply a clean, cloth-wrapped cold pack briefly if required for swelling. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas, steam rooms and excessive heat for approximately 24–48 hours.
• Avoid excessive sunlight and ultraviolet exposure until the initial redness and swelling have resolved.
• Use suitable broad-spectrum sun protection.
• Avoid pressing or manipulating the areas other than the recommended massage.
• Follow all personalised instructions provided by Nurse Maya.

• Increasing or severe pain
• Significant or worsening swelling
• Unusual skin colour changes
• Blistering or mottled skin
• Increasing redness, heat or discharge
• Fever or symptoms of infection
• A persistent or painful lump
• Any symptom that causes you concern