Sculptra Aesthetic: What To Know and Expect

Woman smiling, holding her face in her hands (model)

With so many innovative face rejuvenation treatments available, we understand that it can feel overwhelming to choose which one is right for you. Our goal at Dallas Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics is to bring patients innovative skin treatments like Sculptra Aesthetic, a safe and effective injectable collagen stimulator with many unique benefits.

If you’re not already familiar with Sculptra, it needs to be on your skincare radar. What is Sculptra used for? What are the benefits of Sculptra Aesthetic? How does Sculptra compare to dermal fillers and what can you expect from a Sculptra treatment? Let’s take a closer look…

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra isn’t a typical filler. It is an FDA-approved injectable that creates gradual, long-lasting results by stimulating your body’s own collagen production. The active ingredient in Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid, a safe, biodegradable gel-like substance that has been used in dissolvable stitches for over 30 years. The poly-L-lactic acid acts as a support structure for collagen to grow around and naturally integrate into the face. Eventually, the poly-L-lactic acid is metabolized by the body, leaving behind the new collagen and the volume that comes with it.

What is Sculptra used for?

Our dermatologists recommend Sculptra for the face as a solution for patients seeking gradual, long-term results rather than an immediate, overnight change. It is a procedure that safely and effectively combats common age-related skin issues such as lines and wrinkles, hollow or flattened cheeks, and loss of skin elasticity.

Sculptra facial treatments typically target vulnerable areas around the lips, eyes, mouth, and cheeks. Many of our patients use Sculptra to achieve the following results:

  • Plumping the hollow areas of the chin, cheeks, and temples
  • Sculpting the cheekbones
  • Redefining and lifting the jawline
  • Minimizing acne scars
  • Volumizing the overall appearance of the face

How is Sculptra different from other fillers?

Sculptra is a unique procedure because dermatologists utilize a series of poly-L-lactic acid injections, which elicit a natural response from your body to produce collagen over time. The key ingredient in many other dermal fillers is hyaluronic acid, which yields more immediate and visible results. Compared to other facial fillers, Sculptra patients wait longer to see results—but the outcome is worth the wait! Sculptra results can last up to 2 years while other facial fillers typically last 6 to 12 months. Sculptra is an excellent option if you are seeking a gradual solution to looking more youthful and vibrant versus a more immediate change.

View Before & After Photos

What happens during a Sculptra treatment?

Sculptra is neither a one-shot nor a one-size-fits-all procedure! As with any skincare treatment plan, we consult thoughtfully with each patient to determine the best approach. In some cases, we recommend using Sculptra on its own, or in conjunction with other dermal fillers. Typically, our dermatologists administer a series of 3 Sculptra injections over the course of several months to allow collagen to slowly build and restore the skin.

Eventually, the poly-L-lactic acid is metabolized by the body, leaving behind naturally occurring collagen. Each session takes roughly 30 minutes, and the results are gradual and long-lasting. You may feel some pressure during the injections, but there is typically no pain. Following the series of injections, the skin gradually appears smoother and plumper, resulting in a more natural, youthful appearance.

What To Expect From Your Sculptra Recovery

It’s always good to know what to expect following any skincare procedure. Our Sculptra patients usually experience very minimal downtime following each treatment. However, some patients report having minor reactions at the injection site, such as redness, tenderness, swelling, or bumps. These side effects are generally mild and short-lived. There is also ample downtime between sessions to allow time for collagen to build and restore the skin.

The Sculptra Takeaway

For patients seeking natural results that can last up to 2 years, Sculptra is a great option compared to other dermal fillers. Sculptra stimulates the growth of collagen, slowly smoothing wrinkles, fine lines, and hollow areas of the skin. Treatment consists of a series of 3 injections issued over several months and patients usually experience minimal or no side effects.  Our patients who want to see immediate results may prefer standard dermal fillers. But if you are not in a rush to achieve long-lasting, youthful-looking skin, you may be an ideal candidate for Sculptra!

If you’d like to learn more about the dermal fillers we offer, check out this Dermal Fillers FAQ for answers to some of our patients’ most common questions. Please request a consultation or call us at (214) 631-7546 to schedule an appointment or find out more about Sculptra Aesthetic.

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