What is Sculptra? How much does it cost? Information and details you should know.

Sculptra is composed of Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) particles, known as the first and original collagen stimulator. It stimulates natural collagen production in the skin, replenishing lost collagen due to aging. This helps firm, plump, and restore skin elasticity by rejuvenating it from deep within, strengthening the skin’s structure, and naturally restoring a youthful appearance.

How does Sculptra restore collagen?

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the human body, accounting for 25% of total protein. It serves as the fundamental structure of connective tissues such as skin, cartilage, tendons, muscles, blood vessels, bones, teeth, and nails. Collagen has a long, fibrous, and durable structure that binds tissues together, providing strength, elasticity, and resistance to impact.

The importance of collagen in the body:

Skin

Collagen is a key component of the skin, helping to maintain elasticity, smoothness, and firmness, and reduce wrinkles.

Bones and Joints

Collagen is a major component of cartilage, providing strength, and flexibility, and reducing friction between bones.

Tendons and Muscles

Collagen is an essential part of tendons, enhancing their strength and elasticity while supporting efficient muscle function.

Circulatory System

Collagen is a key component of blood vessel walls, improving their strength and flexibility while reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Digestive System

Collagen is a main component of the mucous membranes in the digestive system, supporting efficient digestion.

Immune System

Collagen plays a role in white blood cells, helping to enhance immune system function.

The decline of collagen with age

Collagen gradually decreases as age increases, leading to the deterioration of various tissues in the body, such as:

1. Sagging skin
2. Osteoporosis
3. Joint pain
4. Cardiovascular diseases

The process of Sculptra

The working process of Sculptra is divided into three main stages:

1. Fibroblast Stimulation

Sculptra contains Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), a biodegradable natural amino acid. Fibroblast cells are responsible for producing collagen and elastin. When PLLA is injected into the subcutaneous layer, fibroblast cells recognize it as a foreign substance, triggering an inflammatory response. This inflammation stimulates fibroblast proliferation and increases new collagen production.

2. New Collagen Production

Collagen is a structural protein in the skin. As fibroblast cells produce more collagen, the skin becomes denser and more elastic, reducing fine lines and making the skin firmer.

3. PLLA Degradation

PLLA is an amino acid that is naturally biodegradable. Over time, PLLA gradually breaks down, leaving only the newly created collagen behind. This results in the effects of Sculptra injections lasting for up to 2 years.

Results from Sculptra gradually become visible within 3–4 weeks, with full effects appearing in about six months. The outcome depends on individual skin conditions and is commonly used to address wrinkles, nasolabial folds, deep cheek lines, under-eye hollows, sunken cheeks, sagging chin, loose neck skin, and chest laxity.

Who is Sculptra suitable for?

1. Those with loose, sagging skin lacking firmness and elasticity.
2. Individuals with visible wrinkles are caused by aging.
3. Those who want to rejuvenate their skin from within after prolonged neglect.
4. People who want to lift their skin to make plump skin.
5. Suitable for those who want long-lasting results and don’t have the time for frequent injections, as Sculptra results can last up to 2 years

Preparation Before the Procedure

Collagen stimulators are injected into the deep skin layers to promote new collagen production, helping to reduce wrinkles, fill deep lines, and enhance facial contouring. Proper preparation before the injection is essential for optimal results and to minimize potential side effects.

1. Consult a doctor to assess the suitability of the procedure.
2. Inform the doctor about medical history and any medications being taken.
3. Avoid certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding, such as aspirin, vitamin E, and fish oil, for two weeks before treatment.
4. Refrain from consuming alcohol for 1–3 days before the procedure.
5. Avoid other facial procedures for 2–4 weeks before treatment.

Sculptra Injection Procedure

The detailed steps of the injection are as follows:

1. Consult a dermatologist to assess your skin condition and determine an appropriate treatment plan. The doctor will inform you about potential side effects and any contraindications.
2. Skin Preparation: The doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area for about 45 minutes to minimize discomfort during the injection.
3. Injection: The doctor will inject the medication into the skin at a depth of 1.5–2 millimeters using a blunt needle (22–25 G). The amount of product used will depend on the target area and individual skin condition.
4. Massage your face to help the medicine spread and stimulate collagen in the skin layer.

How to take care of yourself after a Sculptra injection?

1. Avoid makeup, sauna, and steam treatments.
2. Don’t apply creams to the injection sites for 24 hours.
3. Minimize sun and UV exposure until swelling and redness subside.
4. If you plan to undergo other facial procedures, it is recommended to wait 2–4 weeks.

Precautions for Sculptra Injection

1. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
2. Shouldn’t be used by individuals with a history of allergy to Sculptra’s ingredients, including Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and non-pyrogenic mannitol.
3. Individuals with autoimmune diseases (e.g., SLE).
4. People using immunosuppressive medications.
5. Those with a history of severe allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis).
6. Individuals with skin infections or inflammation at the treatment site.

Possible side effects after Sculptra injections

After the Sculptra procedure, swelling, pain, and redness in the treated areas may occur. These symptoms typically resolve on their own within 2-3 days. In some cases, small lumps may be felt under the skin in the initial stages. It is recommended to massage the treated areas as instructed by the doctor. These lumps will gradually disappear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skinmaster By Masterpiece is a medical beauty clinic offering a variety of beauty treatments, such as skin rejuvenation.