Sculptra®
Sculptra® is an injectable and biocompatible (not rejected by the body) implant. It is also biodegradable as it is metabolized by the body. It has been used since 2004 to restore facial volume (such as acne scars, cellulite, loss of volume) and to provide overall skin rejuvenation.
More recently, the Sculptra is very popular for volumizing the buttocks.
What is Sculptra®?
Health Canada approved, this injectable filler implant contains microparticles of Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a polymer of the alpha-hydroxyl acid (fruit acid) family. It is also used in the composition of absorbable surgical sutures.
Sculptra® will stimulate natural collagen production at the injection sites. It will gradually replace lost collagen. Its biostimulation action is progressive and subtle.
Treatments with Poly-L-lactic acid do not require any skin allergy tests.
What are the effects of Sculptra®?
Thanks to its collagen production stimulation, Sculptra® redefines the contours of the face by increasing the volume of depressed areas. Thus, it corrects dark circles, wrinkles and fine lines, nasolabial folds, bitterness folds, scars and skin ageing marks. Sculptra® is used in cases of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) which can lead to irregularities in volume and tissue relaxation.
In recent years, it has been popular for volumizing the buttocks.
Sculptra® offers lasting correction, beyond 30 months, combining rejuvenation, skin tightening and a substantial volumizing effect.
Sculptra® Injections
As the implant can be used to treat different areas, the depth of injection and the amount to be administered depend on the treated area and the desired result.
After the treatment, you will notice a gradual improvement in the depressed area in the following weeks. Wrinkles, depressions and treated folds gradually diminish and the skin tightens thanks to your own rebuilt collagen strands (biostimulation effect).
Frequently asked questions about Sculptra®
How many treatment sessions are required?
Most of the treatment areas require a few sessions – two or three – at least four weeks apart. The results are gradual and more noticeable after the second session. Skin depressions fade over the weeks, and the volume is established after a few months.
It is difficult to predict the exact volume and number of sessions needed, as responses to Sculptra® can vary depending on age, area to be treated and volumizing goals.
A second and sometimes a third session should always be considered for a first treatment. The first session sensitizes the body (to “prime” it). By the second session, all mechanisms will be fully active.
So after your second injection session, Dr. Bernier will assess whether you need additional correction. Skin depression may initially reappear, but it diminishes as the effects of Sculptra® become apparent.
Follow-up sessions may be required to maintain the desired level of correction.
What are the contraindications?
Sculptra® injections are not recommended if:
- You are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients of the product.
- You have an inflammation or skin infection on or near the treated area.
- You have a predisposition to excessive scarring
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have received laser treatment or chemical hair removal and your skin has not yet recovered perfectly.
What are the side effects of the treatment?
Immediately after your Sculptra® injections, some side effects may occur. Localized redness, swelling, or bruising may appear at the injection site. These are normal tissue reactions. These effects disappear after a few hours or a week at most.
What to expect after a Sculptra® treatment?
You can resume your activities immediately after the injection. About 24 hours after the treatment, any swelling or redness will disappear. Bruises fade in 2 to 3 weeks. During this period, it is recommended to avoid any sun exposure.
Can I get other injections while having a Sculptra® correction?
Sculptra® is biocompatible with hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, neuromodulators and thread lifts. The doctor often prescribes them in synergy.
Are you interested in Sculptra ® injections?
Please note that this product may not be suitable for everyone. During your consultation with Dr. Bernier, in Sherbrooke, Montreal or Val-d’Or, it is important to inform her of all your known medical problems and allergies. Do not hesitate to contact us for further information or to make an appointment.
To know more about Sculptra®: https://www.sculptra.ca/default.aspx