What Is Sculptra? Here’s What You Need to Know

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Sculptra Aesthetic: Unlocking the Power of Collagen Restoration

In the world of medical aesthetics, innovative treatments are constantly emerging to help individuals achieve their desired appearance and regain their youthful glow. One such remarkable treatment is Sculptra, a medical procedure that addresses the root cause of facial aging by stimulating collagen production. In our office, we like to refer to Sculptra as “Fertilizer for the Skin”. If you’re searching for a solution to restore facial volume, reduce wrinkles, and revitalize your overall look to get that youthful glow back, Sculptra Aesthetic may be the answer you’ve been seeking.

For this patient, we dissolved cheek filler that was overdone by another provider and restored lost volume with Sculptra.

Understanding the Importance of Collagen:

Collagen, a vital protein in our bodies, plays a crucial role in maintaining the firmness, elasticity, and youthful appearance of our skin. However, as we age, our natural collagen production gradually decreases. In fact, after the age of 30, we lose about 1% of collagen per year resulting in a loss of facial volume, the skin thins, and the development of wrinkles and folds happen. This is where Sculptra comes into play.

What is Sculptra Aesthetic?

What is Sculptra? Sculptra Aesthetic is an FDA-approved injectable treatment designed to counteract the signs of aging by stimulating the production of collagen. Unlike traditional dermal fillers that provide immediate but temporary results, Sculptra Aesthetic takes a different approach. By gradually enhancing collagen production, the Sculptra injection helps restore facial volume, smoothen out wrinkles, and achieve natural-looking rejuvenation that can last up to two years. For this treatment, in the first year, it is recommended to have two treatments at least 6-8 weeks apart, thereafter we would only recommend a maintenance dose of Sculptra once a year.

Replenishing Lost Collagen for Lasting Results:

When Sculptra Aesthetic is injected into specific areas of the face, its active ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), stimulates the body’s natural collagen synthesis process. Over time, the newly produced collagen strengthens the skin’s structure, replenishes lost volume, and improves overall skin texture. The gradual nature of the Sculptra treatment allows for subtle yet remarkable results that appear natural and harmonious with your features.

Pre-Treatment Care: Setting the Stage for Success

To ensure the best possible outcome and minimize any potential risks, there are a few essential steps to follow before undergoing the Sculptra Aesthetic treatment:

1. Consultation: Schedule a consultation with Dr. Umbreen Chaudhary, who has specialized in medical aesthetics for over 16 years. During this consultation session, Dr. Chaudhary will assess your skin condition, discuss your treatment goals, and determine whether Sculptra Aesthetic is the right choice for you.
2. Medical History and Medications: It is vital to provide Dr. Chaudhary with a comprehensive medical history, including any current medications, supplements, or allergies you may have. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, might need to be temporarily discontinued to minimize the risk of bruising or bleeding.
3. Realistic Expectations: Understand that Sculptra Aesthetic is not an instant fix with immediate results like with hyaluronic acid filler. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint! The treatment works gradually, and multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome. Patience is key, good things take time! Maintain realistic expectations and discuss your goals openly with us. We want you to have all the information upfront to make the most informed decisions regarding your treatments in our office.

The Treatment Process Unveiled:

Once you’ve completed the necessary preparations, it’s time to embark on your Sculptra Aesthetic journey to treat your deep wrinkles. Sculptra Aesthetic is clinically approved to treat:

• Deep folds between the nose and mouth (nasolabial fold), also called “smile lines”
• Lines framing the mouth (marionette lines)
• Chin wrinkles

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you can expect during the Sculptra treatment session:

1. Cleansing: The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed to ensure a sterile environment, promoting safe and effective results.
2. Numbing: Depending on your preference and Dr. Chaudhary’s recommendation, a topical or local anesthetic may be applied to minimize any discomfort during the treatment.
3. Injection Technique: Using a fine needle, Dr. Chaudhary will skillfully administer Sculptra filler to targeted areas of your face, focusing on areas with volume loss, deep facial wrinkles, or folds. The precise technique used ensures even distribution and natural-looking results.
4. Massage: Following each injection, we will gently massage the treated areas. This technique helps to evenly distribute the product and minimize the risk of developing nodules or irregularities. We recommend that you continue massaging the treated areas using the 5x5x5 rule. Gently massage for 5 minutes, 5 times a day for a total of 5 days.
5. Alcohol and Smoking: Minimize alcohol consumption and avoid smoking for a few days prior to the treatment, as these habits can impair the healing process and affect the overall results.
6. Skincare Products: Follow Dr. Chaudhary’s instructions regarding skincare products. We may recommend avoiding exfoliating agents or retinol-based products in the days leading up to the treatment, depending on what is best for you.

Post-Treatment Care:

After your Sculptra Aesthetic treatment, following these post-care instructions is crucial for optimal results:

1. Ice Packs: Although not always used, sometimes it is recommended to apply cold compresses or ice packs to the treated areas immediately after the procedure. This can help reduce swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
2. Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your face gently with a mild cleanser, like our Gentle Everyday Cleanser (please link) for the first few days after treatment. Avoid excessive or aggressive rubbing of the treated areas. Remember to massage the way we show you in-office!
3. Sun Protection: Protect your skin from direct sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen such as our Rose Gold Tinted SPF. (Please Link) This helps prevent hyperpigmentation and ensures the longevity of the treatment results.
4. Avoid Excessive Heat: Steer clear of saunas, hot tubs, and intense physical activities that can induce excessive sweating for at least 48 hours post-treatment. Heat can potentially increase swelling and inflammation.
5. Follow-up Treatments: Sculptra Aesthetic is a gradual treatment that requires multiple sessions for optimal results. Follow Dr. Chaudhary’s recommended treatment schedule to achieve the desired outcome. We will schedule future recommended treatments before you leave so that we can stay on track! Keep in mind our schedules often book out months in advance!

Benefits and Results: A Little Review…

Sculptra Aesthetic offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among patients:

1. Long-lasting Results: Unlike traditional dermal fillers that provide temporary results, Sculptra Aesthetic stimulates collagen production, leading to a gradual and natural improvement that can last up to two years.
2. Natural-Looking Rejuvenation: By addressing the underlying cause of facial aging, Sculptra Aesthetic provides a subtle and natural enhancement. The results are not overly dramatic but rather restore youthful facial contours.
3. Versatility: Sculptra Aesthetic can effectively treat various areas of the face, including nasolabial folds, marionette lines, temples, and cheeks. It can also be used to address volume loss in the hands and to reduce cellulite on the body such as with a “Sculptra Butt Lift.”
4. Minimal Downtime: The recovery period after Sculptra Aesthetic is minimal, allowing you to resume your daily activities shortly after treatment. However, some swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites may occur, but these typically resolve within a few days.

Sculptra Aesthetic is a groundbreaking treatment that harnesses the power of collagen restoration to address the signs of facial aging. By gradually replenishing lost collagen, this injectable treatment can restore facial volume, diminish wrinkles, and enhance your natural beauty. If you’re seeking a long-lasting and natural-looking rejuvenation, Sculptra Aesthetic may be the treatment of choice for you!

If you still have questions, leave a comment below, reach out on Instagram, or schedule a consultation at our Greensboro or Asheboro clinics. At Rejuvenation MD Aesthetics and Vein Center, we offer a range of in-office facial rejuvenation treatments and skincare products to help you maintain a youthful appearance. Dr. Chaudhary can customize a treatment plan based on your unique needs and preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and safety.

Umbreen Chaudhary, MD

Umbreen Chaudhary is the founder of Rejuvenation MD Aesthetics & Vein Center and Rejuvenation MD Skincare. Dr. Chaudhary has over sixteen years of experience in aesthetic medicine and strives to provide natural-looking results to her patients.