Sculptra works at the dermal layer, where collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin are found. Collagen, a strong and flexible component of the dermis, provides structural support, resulting in smooth, bright, and tight skin. Starting around age 18, collagen loss occurs at a rate of 1% per year. This reduction weakens the skin’s support structure, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and increased moisture loss.
Sculptra is an injectable treatment composed of irregularly shaped microparticles of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). It arrives in powder form and is reconstituted with sterile bacteriostatic water. At Aluma, we add lidocaine to enhance comfort during the procedure. Initially, there may appear to be an immediate correction due to the sterile water, but this effect subsides within 24-48 hours as the water is absorbed. The PLLA particles, however, remain in the skin and create a controlled inflammatory response. This response recruits fibroblasts and stimulates collagen production within the dermis.
Over time, the PLLA is gradually broken down and eliminated by the body as carbon dioxide, water, lactate, and glucose. Sculptra works gradually and subtly, restoring the skin’s inner structure and adding volume to smooth out folds and wrinkles.
What to Expect with Your Sculptra Treatment
Consultation
Begin with a consultation to learn how Sculptra can benefit your skin and determine the number of vials needed for optimal correction.
Preparation
Before your treatment, we recommend taking Tylenol (not Advil) about 45 minutes before your appointment. Tylenol helps ensure maximum comfort during injections, whereas Advil can increase the risk of bruising and reduce the beneficial inflammation caused by the treatment.
Procedure
The procedure involves the placement of Sculptra via a cannula, a blunt-tipped needle for highly vascular facial areas, and needle injections for areas requiring periosteum placements.
Aftercare
Aftercare is straightforward: massage the treatment areas for 5 minutes, five times a day, for five days to ensure even distribution and maximum activation of the medication. Expect slight redness and tenderness after massaging, which is due to the PLLA’s inflammatory effect—a positive sign. This redness should taper off after a few days.
Results
You will start noticing results around 6-8 weeks post-treatment. At this point, many clients return for their second treatment. The results from Sculptra can last up to 2 years, making it a long-term aesthetic treatment that offers overall rejuvenation.
How Much Sculptra Do I Need?
According to the manufacturer’s guidelines, a general rule of thumb is one vial per decade of age. Here’s how we approach treatment to ensure optimal results:
- Initial Treatment: We start with two vials to ensure you see noticeable benefits from your treatment.
- Additional Volume: If you desire more volume or support, we recommend 1-2 additional vials, spaced about eight weeks apart from your initial treatment.
Recommended Vials by Age:
- In your 20s: 2 vials
- In your 30s: 3 vials
- In your 40s: 4 vials
- In your 50s and beyond: 5 vials
This tailored approach ensures a rejuvenated, natural-looking appearance customized to your needs.
Is Sculptra Safe
Sculptra has a well-established safety profile validated through extensive clinical studies and real-world use since its FDA approval in 2004. The primary component, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), has been used in various medical applications for decades due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. Common side effects are generally mild, including temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, or lumps at the injection site. These typically resolve on their own within a few days to weeks.
Rare but more serious side effects can include granulomas or small lumps under the skin, which may develop months after treatment. These are often manageable with appropriate intervention. Ensuring treatment is administered by a trained and experienced practitioner significantly reduces the risk of adverse effects.
