Picture of Aluma's waiting room with front desk manager speaking with a client about sculptra while sitting on the couch.

What Sculptra Does for Facial Aging

In aesthetic medicine, Sculptra has emerged as an evidence-based solution to restore lost volume and tighten saggy skin. If you’re considering a Sculptra treatment, you might be curious about how long Sculptra lasts and what to expect during and after the procedure. Let’s dive into the details to help you get a better understanding of Sculptra.

What is sculptra and how does it work

Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable medication composed of poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable molecule with a long history of safe use in medical devices. Sculptra arrives in a sterile single-use vial in powder form. It is reconstituted with sterile water and injected into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Unlike traditional dermal fillers, where the volumizing effects are immediately apparent, the results from Sculptra develop gradually over several weeks to months. This is because Sculptura stimulates the body to increase collagen production in the areas where it is injected.

We all lose 1-2% of our natural collagen annually from age 20 onward. By 40, you have likely lost 20-40% of your skin’s collagen, leading to lost support, fine lines and wrinkles, and hollow areas. Sculptra addresses this collagen loss directly through biostimulation, where the body’s natural repair cells and healing processes are harnessed to boost collagen production, which in turn restores facial volume and skin elasticity. This unique mechanism sets Sculptra apart, as its volumizing and supportive effects are gradual but long-lasting.

What to expect during a sculptra treatment

Determining Candidacy: While Sculptra enhances the overall quality and appearance of everyone’s skin, individuals seeking substantial contouring or lifting goals may prefer an alternative treatment, such as dermal fillers or silhouette threads, or a combination treatment of Sculptra and dermal fillers. Therefore, prior to your initial Sculptra session, a consultation with Dr. Nathaniel Brigham MD, a board-certified physician, is recommended.

Treatment Session: At Aluma, Dr. Brigham employs an advanced injection technique utilizing a cannula rather than a needle to maximize patient comfort and ensure Sculptra is injected in the optimal tissue depth. Lidocaine is also added during the reconstitution process to minimize discomfort.

When to expect sculptra results

Sculptra’s results unfold gradually. Patients often begin to observe subtle changes within 6-8 weeks following their initial session. We advise one or two follow-up treatments four to eight weeks apart for optimal results. In the months following Sculptra treatments, you will notice an increased lift in the cheeks, a tighter jawline, and fuller skin with a youthful glow that lasts years.

How long does Sculptra last

One of the key advantages of Sculptra is its longevity. While individual results vary, more than 80% of patients in the pivotal trials noted results that lasted 25 months. These studies were stopped at 25 months, so the prevailing thought is that Sculptra results may last beyond this time frame. The extended duration is attributed to the collagen-building effect of Sculptura, which creates long-lasting tissue support and volume.

When to consider a sculptra re-treatment

The decision to retreat is individualized, and factors such as age, lifestyle, and desired outcomes play a role. Many clients like to re-treat at the two year marker to keep results steady.

Is Sculptra worth it – Our conclusion

Yes! Sculptra is a tried-and-true option in aesthetic medicine, offering a natural-looking and long-lasting solution to volume loss and aging skin. If you’re considering Sculptra in Portland, Oregon, or the surrounding areas, consult with Dr. Nathaniel Brigham, MD, at Aluma to evaluate your unique needs and plan your treatment.