Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) based filler which is very different than other fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, that are primarily made of hyaluronic acid. The difference between the types of injectables is that HA products “fill” while Sculptra “stimulates”. The Poly-L-lactic acid in Sculptra stimulates a patients own collagen to reduce the signs of aging. As Sculptra is absorbed into the dermis layer of the skin, it helps rebuilds collagen, which then restores your own facial volume. Unlike other fillers, Sculptra does require about 3 treatments over the course of a few months to get the full effect.
Sculptra can be started at a younger age to begin replenishing lost collagen. By the age of 40, most people have lost about 20% of their collagen and will continue to lose approximately 10% every ten years after that.
Sculptra Specialist in Utah
Dr. Henstrom of Utah Facial Plastics is an expert Sculptra injector in Utah. Dr. Henstrom often recommends Sculptra to his patients who have a lot of hollowing and/or may be experiencing what is called “filler fatigue“. This can happen overtime when patients have been over-filled from other or multiple providers. Many patients also prefer Sculptra because of the long term benefits it provides for facial rejuvenation. After each treatment, Dr. Henstrom advises patients to massage the area for five minutes, five times a day, for five days. This will ensure that the product is evenly distributed.
The benefits of Sculptra are noticeable right away, although the effect goes away as your body absorbs the saline that the Sculptra is mixed with. However, the injected products itself stays where it’s been injected and starts to stimulate collagen production. Sculptra is commonly used in areas of the face where volume has been lost; cheeks, temples, and marionette lines. Patients that need total facial rejuvenation tend to be better candidates for a series of Sculptra treatments to restore full facial volume.
The results of Sculptra are usually noticeable after the second session when the signs of collagen production become more apparent. Sculptra is a long lasting treatment with typical results up to 2 years. Once you have completed the recommended 3 to 4 treatments, Dr. Henstrom recommends returning once a year to maintain collagen growth.
History of Sculptra
In 2004, the FDA approved Sculptra to treat HIV patients who suffer from lipoatrophy. Lipoatrophy is when there is a loss of fat in specific areas of the body, especially from the face. Soon after in 2009 the FDA approved it under Sculptra Aesthetic to treat deep facial wrinkles and folds in healthy people.
There are so many amazing benefits of Sculptra, cosmetic and medical, and a treatment Dr. Henstrom has had great results with for a number of years as a top facial plastic surgeon in Utah.
For more information about Sculptra, please contact our office at (801) 776-2220 or contact us HERE.