Which areas can be treated?
Areas for treatment with Sculptra include:
• Facial lines, wrinkles and folds.
• Cheek augmentation for sunken cheeks.
• Nasolabial folds (folds between nose and side of mouth)
• Marionette lines (folds from corner of mouth to chin)
• Wrinkles around cheek and chin.
• Jowls
How does Sculptra work?
Sculptra is the application of poly-l-latic acid. This history of use within the body by the medical profession over the past 20 years. Since 1999 Sculptra has been used on over 150,000 patients all over the world. It is an injectable treatment, however it does not work in the same way as a dermal filler.
The Sculptra is injected deep into the lower layers of the skin to create a lattice, or matrix, structure that allows the body’s own collagen to build up, creating volume and thickness. Gradually, over a 6 month period following the treatments, the patient’s facial structure will develop a smoothing effect and the appearance of wrinkles, lines and folds will be significantly minimised.
Sculptra is inert, will not impact on the patient’s wellbeing, is long lasting and biodegradable.
Sculptra contains a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort at time of application.
How many treatments will be required?
Most patients require 2 or 3 treatments to obtain the desired results, which last considerably longer than alternative treatments such as dermal fillers. Patients with severe fat loss will require 4 or 5 treatments. The precise number of treatments required will be discussed with patients at consultation as the number of treatments required will depend on each patient’s skin condition and desired results.
Each treatment takes around 45 minutes. As the Sculptura is inert, there is no need to perform skin tests. It is important to realise that Sculptra will not prevent the loss of facial fat but helps to improve the appearance of the patient by improving the skin’s thickness.
Who performs the Sculptra treatments?
At Skin Medical, our doctors are members of British Association of Cosmetic Doctors (BACD). Both our doctors and nurse practitioners specially trained in Sculptra as certified by Sanifi-Aventis, the marketer and manufacturer of pharmaceuticals worldwide.
Does the treatment hurt?
At the time of the injection you will feel some discomfort, as with all injections. Patients may notice a brief burning sensation, however this can be minimised by local anaesthetic or more commonly with ice packs. A topical anaesthetic may be requested prior to treatment.
What aftercare is required?
The practitioner will be able to provide verbal and written aftercare instructions.
Massaging on the treated area twice daily for at least one month is highly recommended as it is very important for the long-term results of treatment and for the prevention of nodules from forming.
What are the risks and possible side effects?
As with all injections, there is the risk of bruising, bleeding, bruising, itching, swelling, tenderness, discomfort and redness. These side effects would subside in 2-6 days.
A delayed side effect of small bumps appearing under the location of the skin being treated may occur. These may or may not be visible, although will be noticeable when pressing the treated area, and should be reported to the practicing clinician.
Such side effects can be minimised by ensuring that you select a reputable clinic and practitioner who has the necessary experience and training in Sculptra.
