What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is a dermal filler and then some. Like other fillers, this formula immediately adds volume to restore natural contours in key areas. Secondarily, though, Sculptra aids in the natural rebuilding of collagen beneath the skin, and this is what sets it apart from other anti-aging treatments. Unlike most other fillers, this solution is made with poly-L-lactic acid strung together in what is called a polymer. It is these polymers that incite the production of collagen over the long term.

Some of the common concerns for which Sculptra may be used include:

• Hollow temples and cheeks
• A softened jawline
• Boney cheekbones
• Nasolabial folds and Marionette lines

Making the Choice

There is no singular filler product or any injectable product, that is right for every situation. Generally speaking, most fillers made with hyaluronic acid are suitable for small areas of concern. Using more than 2 to 3 syringes of fillers to produce the desired outcome could lead to an unnatural appearance. In such an instance, the greatest long-term benefit may come from Sculptra, or a combination of products.

Another reason why more patients are considering Sculptra is the longevity of this product versus others. Where a large majority of the common fillers we use today last an average of 6 months (up to 9), patients treated with Sculptra tend to need only a yearly touch up after 2 years of initial results.

Dr. Trussler is recognized as an experienced cosmetic surgeon in Austin. We understand that surgical procedures may not be necessary for the early signs of aging, and offer several injectable treatments to help you refresh your face. Call 512-450-1077 to learn more.

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Sculptra® or Poly L Lactic Acid is an injectable in the biostimulator family that helps encourage the body to produce collagen in the areas it is injected. It is typically used in areas not treated with standard volumetric fillers, such as Juvederm® and Restylane®.

• Sculptra® is not a volumetric filler but does help to gradually smooth lines, naturally volumizing and rejuvenating the face.

Sculptra® needs to be rehydrated at least 48 hours ahead of time to help with an even dispersion and flow of the product. It is distributed in vials and injected with a small caliber syringe. Sculptra® is rehydrated with sterile water and lidocaine to help make the injections comfortable. The initial volume that is injected typically dissipates after the first hour, which may be replaced by some mild bruising and swelling for the next 5 days.

The areas commonly treated with Sculptra® include: the temples, the mid cheek region and the lower face for hollowing, depressions, fine lines and jowling. Sculptra® can be evenly distributed in all of these areas or focused injections can be performed in specific target regions.

1. Temples for hollowing and loss of volume. Sculptra® is injected into the deep plane of the temple region and markedly improves facial shape.
2. Mid-cheek for fine lines and hollowing commonly seen in weight loss. Sculptra® is injected superficially in the region below the boney cheek region and can be combined with highly cross linked hyaluronic fillers such as Voluma® or Restylane Lyft.
3. Lower face for jowling and pre-jowl depressions. Sculptra® is effective for natural structure in this region.
4. Chin augmentation can be performed with Sculptra® injected along the jaw bone.

Correction typically takes 2 to 3 rounds of injections separated 6 weeks to 3 months apart. One vial should be able to be dispersed over the entire face, though for significant temple hollowing 2 vials may be needed.

• The care for the areas treated include gentle massage in the area for 5 days. Ice can be applied to the areas for two days every 4 to 6 hours.

Expected changes after ® include gradual and natural volumizing in the areas of injection which are long lasting. The skin over the areas of injection can have resolution of fine lines and may appear thicker and healthier. Dr. Trussler in Austin Texas has significant experience injecting Sculptra® and can discuss an effective plan which can naturally rejuvenate the face.

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