What is Sculptra? Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler that has been around since 1999. It was first approved by the FDA in 2004 to treat lipoatrophy in people living with HIV. Lipoatrophy causes facial fat loss that results in sunken cheeks and deep folds and indentations on the face. In 2014, the FDA approved Sculptra Aesthetic for …
Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler that has been around since 1999. It was first approved by the FDA in 2004 to treat lipoatrophy in people living with HIV. Lipoatrophy causes facial fat loss that results in sunken cheeks and deep folds and indentations on the face.
In 2014, the FDA approved Sculptra Aesthetic for treating wrinkles and folds on the face to give a more youthful appearance.
The main ingredient in Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). It’s classified as a collagen stimulator that provides long-lasting, natural-looking results that can last up to two years.
The product is safe and effective but isn’t recommended for people with allergies to any of its ingredients or for those with medical conditions that cause irregular scarring.
How does Sculptra work?
The product is injected into the skin to diminish facial wrinkles. It contains PLLA, which acts as a collagen stimulator, helping to gradually restore fullness to facial wrinkles and folds. This results in a softer and more youthful appearance.
You may notice immediate results, but it can take a few months to see the full results of your treatment.
Your doctor will work with you to determine the number of treatment sessions needed to achieve the best result. The average regimen consists of three injections spread out over three or four months.
Treatment Procedure for Sculptra
During the treatment, your doctor will map the injection sites on your skin and cleanse the area. A topical anesthetic may be applied to help with any discomfort. Your doctor will then inject your skin using multiple small injections.
You should be able to return to your normal activities immediately after treatment. Your doctor will advise you of any special instructions.
The product is used to diminish facial wrinkles and folds and has been clinically approved to treat smile lines and other wrinkles around the nose and mouth as well as chin wrinkles.
It has many off-label uses, including:
nonsurgical butt lift or buttock augmentation
correction of cellulite
correction of chest, elbow, and knee wrinkles
Sculptra has also become a popular choice for those looking to bulk up their appearance. It’s being used to create definition and the look of extra muscle mass on the:
glutes
thighs
biceps
triceps
pectorals
Sculptra is not recommended for use on the eyes or the lips.
Are there any risks or side effects from Sculptra treatment?
You can expect some swelling and bruising at the injection site. Other common side effects include:
redness
tenderness
pain
bleeding
itching
bumps
Some people may develop lumps under the skin and skin discoloration. In a 2015 study, the reported incidence of nodule formation associated with Sculptra was 7 to 9 percent.
This appears to be related to the depth of the injection, highlighting the importance of finding a qualified professional.
The product shouldn’t be used by people with a history of irregular scarring or anyone allergic to the ingredients of it. It shouldn’t be used at the site of skin sores, acne, cysts, rashes, or other skin inflammation.
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment. Swelling, bruising, and other side effects are usually mild and subside within a few days. Doing the following will help speed along your recovery:
Apply a cold pack to the affected area for a few minutes at a time within the first 24 hours.
Following treatment, massage the area for five minutes at a time, five times a day, for five days.
Avoid excessive sunlight or tanning beds until any redness and swelling has resolved.
Results are gradual, and it may take a few weeks to see the full effects of the product. Results last up to two years.
Preparing for Sculptra
There is no special preparation required before the treatment. To reduce the risk of bleeding, your doctor may ask that you stop taking NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen a few days before treatment.
Where to find Sculptra treatment in Malaysia?
Sculptra should only be administered by a certified doctor to reduce the risk of complications and ensure natural-looking results.
