Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid; PLLA)

Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable collagen stimulator that uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to revitalize the skin and restore its youthful appearance, offering long-lasting results by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production.

What is it? It is the first proven regenerative biostimulator. Over time, our bodies produce less collagen. Sculptra stimulates collagen production to restore lost volume and smooths out wrinkles. Sculptra offers a range of benefits including a youthful glow, renewed volume, filling lift or a slimming lift. The results can last for up to two years. It works deep under the skin to gradually help replace lost collagen. Multiple treatments are often required to get desired results. 

How is it different from Fillers? Traditional fillers work by adding volume to smooth out wrinkles, lines and folds, with immediate results. They do not help stimulate the body to replace collagen.

Contraindications

• It should not be used on anyone who has hypersensitivity to any of the components of the product.
• Use of Sculptra in any person with active skin inflammation or infection in or near the treatment area should be deferred until the inflammatory or infectious process has been controlled.
• If you are using anticoagulants you may run the risk of a hematoma or localized bleeding at the injection site.
• If you have a history of or susceptibility to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring
• There is a possible risk of eliciting an inflammatory reaction at the implant site if a laser treatment, chemical peel or any other procedure based on active dermal response.
• Injection procedure reactions consist mainly of hematoma, bruising, edema, discomfort, inflammation, erythema, transient bleeding from an area the size of the point of the needle or transient pain, localized redness at the injection site and ecchymosis. The most common adverse effect was the delayed occurrence of subcutaneous papules, which were confined to the injection site and were typically palpable, asymptomatic and non-visible.
• Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women or in individuals under the age of 21

Post Treatment

• After the treatment, minimize the exposure of the treated area to excessive sun and avoid UV lamp exposure until any initial swelling and redness have resolved.
• Injection related adverse events such as bruising, erythema, itching, swelling, pain and tenderness may occur. These side effects generally resolve spontaneously within one week after injection.