Sculptra
What is Scluptra?
Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable that helps gradually replace lost collagen—the most common protein in the body that is used to form a framework to support cells and tissue—for results that can last up to two years.
How does it work?
Sculptra is made with biocompatible, biodegradable, synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid, which is gradually and naturally absorbed by the body and helps to rebuild lost collagen through a series of treatments administered by one of our medically trained injectors.
Your injector will inject Sculptra into the appropriate dermal plane where strands of collagen support your skin's structure. Over time, Sculptra helps the body reproduce lost collagen.
How many treatments do i need?
The number of injection appointments and the number of injections per appointment vary from person to person, depending on how much collagen has been lost. On average, three injection appointments are needed over a period of a few months.
is Sculptra safe?
Sculptra is FDA approved in the U/S and has been safely used worldwide since 1999.
Sculptra contains a synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid, which a biocompatible biodegradable substance that is gradually and naturally absorbed by the body and commonly found in dissolvable stiches.
Though allergy testing is not required prior to treatment, you should not use Sculptra if you allergic to any of its ingredients. You should also not use this product when you have an active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area, or if you have a history of susceptibility to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring.
Are there any side effects?
The best way to minimize side effects is to seek a skilled medical professional, like the ones we have here at The Women's Centre for Excellence. Treatments should always be administered by a skilled healthcare professional that has received thorough specialty training to use Sculptra.
In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects were: redness, swelling tenderness, injection site pain, bruising, bleeding, itching & lumps.
FAQs
Pre-Treatment Considerations
Pre-Treatment Considerations:
- Schedule your injection at a time when minor swelling or bruising will not disrupt your social obligations. Each time you are treated, outcomes may vary.
- To lessen the likelihood of bleeding or bruising, discontinue use of blood thinning products for 10 days prior to treatment, if approved by your primary care provider. This includes: aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), naproxen, Aleve, fish oil, St. John's Wort, flax, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, garlic, Ginkgo Biloba, ginseng, etc. Alcohol is also to be avoided 24 hours pre- or postinjectable treatment, as it is also a blood thinner. You can consider taking Arnica Montana natural supplement to help bruising (take 5 tablets three times per day starting one week prior to treatment).
- Please notify your provider if you have any history of cold sores, as we will consider pre-medicating with an antiviral prescription prior to injections. Cancel your appointment if you have any open sores in the treatment area. It is important that you alert us of any medical conditions you may have and/or any prescribed medications you are taking prior to your treatment.
- Any injection introduces the risk for infection. For this reason, the following is taken into consideration when proceeding with injections. We will delay injectables if you:
- Have had any infection, cold, virus, or flu in the past 30 days.
- Have had any dental procedures in the past 30 days or are anticipating dental procedures or cleanings in the next 30 days.
- Have had a surgical procedure in the past 30 days or are anticipating a surgery or procedure.
- Have had any immunizations in the past 30 days or if you’re anticipating immunizations.
- Have had any tattooing or permanent makeup within the past 30 days.
- Take any immunosuppressive/injectable medications (ex: Biologics such as Humira, Skyrizi, Stelara, Enbrel, Taltz, Cosentyx, Tremfya).
- Additional contraindications: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies to components of dermal fillers, open sores in areas to be treated.
Post-Treatment Instructions:
- Massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times per day for the first 5 days to prevent nodules.
- A few days after your treatment, you may look as you did before the treatment. Sculptra works gradually and visible results take several weeks.
- Immediately after the treatment, the most commonly reported side effects were temporary redness and swelling at the injection site. These effects typically resolve within two to three days. Cold compresses may be used immediately after treatment to reduce swelling. If the inconvenience continues beyond two to three days or if other reactions occur, please contact our office.
- Avoid exercise, steam room, sauna or anything that can cause sweating until the day after your treatment.
- Do not have any facial procedures including laser, facials, massage, or microneedling for two weeks after your treatment.
- Until the initial redness and swelling have resolved, avoid exposure of the treated area to intense heat (sun lamp or sun).
- If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another recurrence, inform your injector of your history so we may prescrivbe an anti-viral.
- Avoid taking aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John’s Wort, and high doses of vitamin E supplements for one week after treatment. These agents may increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site.
- Avoid alcohol for two days after your treatment.
- A follow up treatment is recommended in 4-6 weeks during your series and then annually after your treatment is recommended.
- If you have any additional questions or concerns please contact our office at 352-241-6460.
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