Sculptra

Kuvaus

Sculptra Aesthetic (injectable poly-L-lactic acid, PLLA) is an FDA-approved biostimulator designed to correct shallow to deep nasolabial fold contour deficiencies and other facial wrinkles in immune-competent people. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that provide immediate volume, Sculptra acts as a collagen stimulator: the PLLA microparticles are gradually broken down by the body while stimulating fibroblasts to produce new type I collagen over weeks to months. This process restores underlying structure, thickens dermal tissue, improves skin elasticity and firmness, and delivers progressive, natural-looking rejuvenation without an “overfilled” appearance.

Key Benefits & Mechanism

• Gradual collagen induction (new collagen production peaks around 3–6 months)
• Improves skin quality, thickness, texture, and radiance
• Restores volume in cheeks, temples, mid-face, and jawline
• Reduces deep folds (nasolabial, marionette lines) and overall facial sagging
• Long duration — results typically last 18–24 months or longer with full treatment protocol
• Natural-looking outcome — enhancement comes from your own collagen, not a foreign filler

Standard Treatment Protocol

• Number of Sessions — Usually 2–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart
• Volume per Session — 1–2 vials (5 mL reconstituted per vial) depending on age, degree of volume loss, and treatment goals
• Injection Technique — Deep dermal/subcutaneous placement using a 25G–27G needle or cannula with fanning or depot technique; vigorous post-injection massage is mandatory (5-5-5 rule: massage treated area 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days)
• Results Timeline — Initial mild plumping from fluid carrier resolves in days; true collagen-driven improvement becomes visible from 4–12 weeks and continues to build for 6–12 months

Common Treatment Areas

• Cheek and mid-face volume loss
• Temple hollowing
• Nasolabial folds and marionette lines
• Jawline and pre-jowl sulcus
• Overall facial tightening and skin quality improvement
• Off-label: décolleté, upper arms, knees, buttocks (non-surgical “butt lift”), cellulite, stretch marks

Safety & Side Effects

Common side effects are mild and transient: injection-site swelling, redness, tenderness, bruising, or small palpable nodules (usually resolve spontaneously or with massage). Rare complications include prolonged nodules/granulomas (minimized with proper dilution, injection depth, and massage), infection, or delayed hypersensitivity. Sculptra is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to PLLA or suture materials, active skin infection, or keloid/hypertrophic scarring tendency.

As of 2026, Sculptra is FDA-approved in the United States for nasolabial fold correction and has widespread approval in Europe (CE-marked), Asia, Latin America, and many other regions. It should only be administered by trained aesthetic physicians, dermatologists, or plastic surgeons experienced in collagen-stimulating injectables and facial anatomy. Proper reconstitution (typically 8–9 mL of sterile water + lidocaine), standing time, and post-treatment massage are critical for safety and efficacy.

Always combine Sculptra treatments with comprehensive consultation, medical history review, realistic expectation setting (gradual results, not instant), and post-care instructions. Results are enhanced and prolonged with good skincare, sun protection, hydration, healthy lifestyle, and maintenance sessions. Consult a qualified injector for a personalized assessment and to determine if Sculptra is the right choice for your facial rejuvenation and volume restoration goals.