Sculptra is a sterile, injectable, biocompatible material made of very small particles of a synthetic polymer called “poly-L-lactic acid.” which is a deep collagen stimulator. It works at the deeper level of the skin, restoring volume, increasing tightness, and improving texture. It is one of today’s top treatments for deep wrinkles caused by aging, environmental exposure, and volume or fat loss in the face. It is a particularly good option for those hard-to-treat areas where Botox or fillers are not an option. CLICK HERE FOR MORE

How does it work? 

After Sculptra is injected, the poly-L-lactic acid particles immediately go to work helping the body reproduce lost collagen. Collagen is the fibrous protein in the skin that works with elastin and hyaluronic acid to promote smoothness, firmness, hydration, and youthfulness.

It is very safe and is a great option for anyone needing increased firmness, plumpness, and tightness, especially in those hard-to-treat areas such as the smile lines, jowls, temples, cheeks, and midface. 

How is it different?

Many treatments, such as topical creams and facials, utilize an “outside-in” approach. These treatments tend to be more superficial and don’t have the power to tighten and lift that Sculptra does. The poly-L-lactic acid particles in Sculptra trigger a profound collagen response, giving it more robust lifting and tightening abilities with longer lasting effects.

How many treatments are needed? 

Our general rule is to start with two treatments spaced 6 weeks apart, and then add an additional treatment for every decade of life after age 50. For example, a 60 year old woman would likely need three treatments for best results; a 70 year old woman would need four treatments; an 80 year old woman would need five treatments, etc.

Who is a good candidate? 

Anyone wanting smoother, more youthful skin! For younger patients it can help with acne scarring. For patients in their 30s it can be used for preventative maintenance. And for patients 40 and older it is a gentle but powerful treatment to turn back the hands of time.

How long does it take to see results? 

The production of collagen is triggered by the breakdown of the poly-L-lactic acid particles in Sculptra. Because this is a relatively slow process it takes several weeks to start seeing results, although many people start seeing an improvement in their skin texture and brightness within the first week. Final results can usually be seen within 3-4 months.

How long do results last? 

The effects of Sculptra last anywhere from 2-5 years. Many people choose to have yearly treatments done for maintenance.

Is it painful? 

Pain is minimal. It doesn’t require anesthesia or topical numbing. The treatment involves a few small pokes by a very thin needle. We do offer nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) for our patients wanting help with discomfort or anxiety.

How is it different from Botox and fillers? 

Botox only paralyzes the underlying muscle and does nothing for the texture, elasticity, or quality of the overlying skin. Dermal fillers are injectable substances that temporarily replace the skin’s lost hyaluronic acid. Most fillers offer many amazing benefits, but they are still a foreign substance in the skin and don’t do anything to promote the skin’s own production of collagen and elastin.

How long does each treatment take? 

Most treatments are done in 30-45 minutes.

What is the down time? 

None. Most people will have mild swelling, redness, and bruising that lasts 3-6 days, but these are usually mild and can be easily covered by makeup.

What are the risks?

The most common risks are swelling, bleeding, bruising, skin discoloration, or pain/discomfort. Most of these will subside within a few days. Less commonly, bumps or nodules can form in the area of injection, but this risk can be minimized by the appropriate amount of post-injection massage that is recommended. An allergic reaction is also always a risk with anything being injected into the body.

What does it cost? 

$1600 per full-face treatment.