05 Sep What is Sculptra and How is it Different Than Other Fillers?
Sculptra is often included in the family of “fillers,” but it’s different than popular options like Juvederm because it isn’t made with hyaluronic acid (HA). Most “fillers” are comprised of HA, and although Parson Skin Center offers a variety of HA fillers, we also offer Sculptra as an alternative or complement to other facial fillers. Instead of HA, Sculptra is made with poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic form of acid that stimulates collagen production. Sculptra is specifically designed to address facial volume loss associated with aging or illness. Unlike HA fillers, the results are not immediate but they can be longer lasting.
Sculptra is often recommended to address deeper folds, creases, and lines in the face. Severe facial fat loss, also known as lipoatrophy, can also be improved with Sculptra. This injectable was initially approved by the FDA in 2004 to treat fat loss associated with HIV treatment. However, it is now a popular option for anyone looking for long-lasting, dramatic, yet natural-looking results. In 2009, the FDA approved the injectable under the name Sculptra Aesthetic specifically for cosmetic treatments in adults with a healthy immune system. Just like any injectable, Sculptra may cause temporary redness, swelling, bruising, and discomfort that typically subsides in just a few days.
Why Choose Sculptra?
Even though Sculptra is a very different product than HA fillers, the procedure is identical. Injections take place in-office by a skilled provider and there is no downtime. Some clients achieve the results they want after just one treatment, but others require up to three. Since Sculptra works by collagen induction instead of immediately “filling” the treatment site with HA, it can take 3 – 4 months to gauge your results and see if you want additional treatments. Once you have achieved the outcome you desire, results can last for up to two years.
Sculptra is FDA approved for the face, but there are a myriad of off-label uses (and treatment sites) that may be appropriate. The most common injection sites for Sculptra are around the nose and mouth, but it can also help with the appearance of cellulite, wrinkles around the body (such as the elbow and knee), and can even be used to create the appearance of larger, more toned muscles. The only place Sculptra is not recommended is the lips and around the eyes.
Which Injectable is for You?
It is not uncommon to mix and match injectables. For example, combining Botox with a filler and/or Sculptra is one of the most popular requests. This is because neuromodulators and “fillers” address two very different signs of aging: wrinkles and lost volume. Although Sculptra and dermal fillers are touted with the ability to “fill in” lines, wrinkles, and creases, they do not stop the formation of these lines—only neuromodulators like Botox can do that. You can get Botox in the same appointment as Sculptra.
You might also want to pair Sculptra with an HA filler. For example, Sculptra might be used to address lines around the nose while an HA filler can be used to plump up the lips. Using more than one treatment is a great way to customize your results and get the outcome you really want. Some initial results might be visible right after Sculptra injections, but pairing it with a treatment that offers immediate gratification—whether it’s an HA filler, HydraFacial, or something else—is a great approach to take.
Customizing Your Treatment Plan
With so many options available, it’s important to work with a skilled professional to create a treatment plan just for you. We recommend scheduling a consultation so that you can find out more about all of your options, including Sculptra and other “fillers.” If you’re a good match for Sculptra, start your treatments right now and you’ll be able to see gorgeous results by 2023. Collagen induction works from the inside out, harnessing the power of your own body to turn back the clock.
Discover more about treatment options at Parson Skin Center by booking your consult today. Simply give us a call or complete the online contact form to take the first step.