Sculptra® Aesthetic is an advanced injectable facial filler used to correct the unwanted signs of aging by restoring lost volume in the skin. Often referred to as a “liquid facelift”, Sculptra Aesthetic can help correct sunken cheeks, contour deficiencies, hollow eyes and folds and wrinkles through a minimally invasive treatment.
Through a simple and safe injection, Sculptra® Aesthetic gradually replaces lost collagen to improve facial fullness and the appearance of wrinkles, folds and sunken areas. By tightening and lifting the skin, patients can achieve significant yet natural looking results that can last for two to five years. No other filler provides such dramatic, long-lasting results.
What is Sculptra® Aesthetic made of and is it safe?
Composed of a synthetic material known as poly-L-lactic acid, Sculptra® Aesthetic is FDA approved for cosmetic use and has been safely and successfully administered across the world since 1999. Poly-L-lactic acid is a safe, synthetic (artificially-created), biodegradable (able to be broken down in the body) alpha hydroxy acid that gradually replaces lost collagen and restores a full, youthful structure to the skin. This substance has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue implants; and is absorbed naturally by the body.
Do I need a skin test?
No skin testing is required.
What happens on the day of treatment?
During a Sculptra® Aesthetic treatment session, patients will be asked to remove any makeup and the skin in the area will be cleaned prior to injection. Dr. Kurtzman will then precisely administer the Sculptra® Aesthetic injection with a very fine needle. After the injection, an ice pack may be applied to help reduce swelling. Gently massaging the treated area can ensure that the material is evenly distributed beneath the skin.
When will I see the results?
Unlike other facial fillers, the results of a Sculptra® Aesthetic injection are not immediately visible as it treats the underlying causes of facial aging. The results of this treatment appear gradually usually over the course of a few months. Results can last up to two years with noticeable improvements in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Will I need more than one treatment?
The number of treatments needed depends on each patient’s current skin condition and desired goals. Dr. Kurtzman will determine your individual need for treatment during your follow-up appointment a few weeks after your initial Sculptra® Aesthetic session. Most patients achieve noticeable results after three treatment sessions over the course of a few months.
How soon can I return to my normal activities?
There is little to no downtime required after treatment with Sculptra® Aesthetic. Most patients able to return to work and other regular activities immediately.
How long do the effects last?
Patients often find results lasting up to two years after your last treatment session, although individual results may vary.
Are there any side effects?
After treatment with Sculptra® Aesthetic, some patients may experience pain at the site of injection, redness, bruising, bleeding, itching or swelling. Some patients may also experience small bumps under the skin that are usually only noticeable when pressing on the area. These symptoms are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days or weeks.