What is Sculptra®?
COMPARING SCULPTRA AND DERMAL FILLERS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?
Sculptra and dermal fillers are both injectable treatments used for facial rejuvenation, but they work in fundamentally different ways. Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and serves as a biostimulator. When injected under the skin, it melds with the tissues and triggers the body's natural collagen production mechanisms.
Conversely, dermal fillers consist mainly of Hyaluronic acid and are engineered to maintain their gel-like structure. Unlike Sculptra, dermal fillers don't stimulate collagen growth; instead, they provide immediate volume replacement. Sculptra's effects are more gradual as the body takes time to produce new collagen.
Both treatment types aim to tackle issues like reduced facial volume, fine lines, and wrinkles. Aging, environmental factors, and genetic makeup contribute to a yearly collagen loss of approximately 1% after age 20. Collagen is essential for skin health, providing structure and elasticity. Maintaining a sufficient collagen level is crucial for youthful, smooth skin.
HOW DOES SCULPTRA FUNCTION?
Sculptra acts as a biostimulative agent, focusing on the root cause of skin aging, which is collagen depletion. Post-injection, either in the face or buttocks, Sculptra encourages the growth of new collagen, resulting in a gradual improvement in skin texture and volume. Results tend to become visible after 2-4 treatment sessions, depending on individual needs, and can last as long as 25 months.
WHO IS SUITED FOR SCULPTRA?
Individuals who are good candidates for Sculptra generally have a healthy immune system and no history of keloid scarring. Moreover, those on blood thinners due to existing medical conditions are usually advised against this treatment.
WHAT TO ANTICIPATE DURING A SCULPTRA SESSION?
Your treatment at Rejuve Medspa, or any qualified provider, will adhere to the highest standards of sterility and patient comfort, making use of numbing solutions and distraction techniques. The Sculptra injection is administered with the help of ultrasound technology and a microcannula, ensuring precise and safe placement. After the procedure, it's essential to massage the treated area multiple times a day for a week, aiding in even distribution of the product and collagen stimulation.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A SCULPTRA TREATMENT?
Adequate hydration is key; aim for a minimum of eight glasses of water in the 24 hours preceding your treatment session. Also, it is advisable to come without makeup on the day of the procedure to facilitate thorough skin cleansing.
ARE THERE ANY AFTER-EFFECTS WITH SCULPTRA?
After a Sculptra session, mild discomfort and swelling are common but usually subside within a week as the product integrates into the skin. While bruising is a possibility, its likelihood is reduced by the use of ultrasound guidance and specialized injection techniques.
WHEN WILL I SEE SCULPTRA RESULTS?
You may begin to notice subtle changes about a month after your Sculptra treatment. This will continue to improve over time as the newly stimulated collagen can take as long as six months to fully manifest.