Dermal fillers have become one of the top non-surgical treatments to enhance the appearance, and one filler is especially popular among those seeking gradual, beautifully natural rejuvenation: Sculptra®. Here, San Diego female plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus answers some of the most common questions her patients ask about this innovative dermal filler at her San Diego plastic surgery center.
What is Sculptra, and how does it work?
Sculptra is a unique injectable made of poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable substance that stimulates your body’s natural collagen production to restore or create natural-looking volume and soften lines and wrinkles gradually over several weeks.
How does Sculptra differ from other fillers like Juvéderm or Restylane?
Sculptra offers longer-lasting rejuvenation because it boosts the skin’s natural structural protein—collagen—to fill out treated areas and smooth lines and wrinkles. By comparison, Juvéderm and Restylane dermal fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid (HA), which adds physical volume to enhance facial features or plump the skin; results diminish as the product dissolves.
Does Sculptra look more natural?
Sculptra and HA-based fillers are both considered to be dermal fillers, and both offer natural-looking results for the right patient. However, those seeking overall restoration of facial volume or a “liquid facelift” with longer-lasting results may benefit from talking with their injector about trying Sculptra.
What areas can be treated with Sculptra?
Sculptra is excellent for treating several facial areas to add youthful volume and definition, such as the cheeks, chin, temples, and jawline. We also Sculptra to reduce lines and wrinkles and fill in acne scars.
“I absolutely love this office! Dr. Gallus….I am soooo thankful to have her as my doctor now. WOW- such a difference from the place I went to for 4 years. I wish I would have trusted my gut and left the old place sooner! Because until you go to an amazing doctor, you won’t know the difference. I found my forever plastic surgeon with Dr. Gallus and her staff today. My fiance found her for me, and I won’t go anywhere else after today! She’s honest, kind, straight to the point, gentle and knows what she’s doing! Her staff takes customer service seriously, and they’re educated on the products.”
—Google Review for Dr. Gallus
How long does it take to see results from Sculptra?
Sculptra’s results develop incrementally, as new collagen layers form beneath the skin—which can take between 4-12 weeks. Some patients report a noticeable improvement in volume and contour as soon as 2 weeks after injections. Your results will be unique, and a little patience will be worth the effortless-looking results!
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients receive 2-3 treatments spaced about 6-8 weeks apart to see optimal results. Your treatment series will vary based on your skin’s conditions, the treatment areas, and the look you wish to achieve with Sculptra dermal filler. During your consultation, we will have a good idea of how many treatments you may need after we assess your skin and discuss your goals.
Is Sculptra permanent?
No; however, Sculptra’s effects can last up to two years or more. Periodic touch-up treatments will help maintain the desired volume and smoothness.
What is the recovery time and potential side effects of Sculptra?
You can return to work or other daily activities immediately after a Sculptra treatment. Sculptra filler has similar temporary side effects as other injectable treatments, such as mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection site—all of which typically resolve on their own. Rarely, other complications can occur, and we will discuss these during your consultation.
How do I know which type of filler is right for me?
The choice depends on several factors, including the areas you wish to treat, your skin type, and your expectations. While Sculptra is excellent for gradual, long-lasting volume and collagen stimulation, other fillers like Juvéderm or Restylane are ideal for immediate, more significant boosts in volume and to treat specific areas. We would be happy to discuss the results you’re looking for and recommend which filler will best suit your preferences.
What should I do before and after a Sculptra treatment?
Prior to treatment, avoid medications and supplements that can increase bruising, such as Ibuprofen, vitamin E, and & aspirin, for at least 7 days if possible to limit bruising. If you use exfoliants or retinol in your skincare routine (kudos if you do!), please pause the use of these products to reduce skin irritation.
Post-treatment, avoid sun exposure, excessive heat (such as saunas), and strenuous activities until the following day. We will provide other aftercare instructions based on your treatment area at your appointment.
Can Sculptra be reversed or removed?
No, Sculptra cannot be immediately reversed or removed, but its effects will gradually diminish over time as the body naturally absorbs the poly-L-lactic acid. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Juvéderm or Restylane, can be dissolved with hyaluronidase injections.
San Diego Sculptra treatmentsIf you’re considering Sculptra or any other cosmetic injectables, including Botox®, Daxxify™, or RHA® dermal fillers, we invite you to schedule a consultation with La Jolla plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus to explore your options and learn how we personalize each treatment for beautifully natural results. Please call Restore SD Plastic Surgery at 858-224-2281 or contact us online!
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