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What Is Sculptra and how does it work?

Sculptra is a new type of facial injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid, which helps to replace lost collagen. It helps correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles, and folds that appear with aging by replacing lost collagen. The main ingredient is a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic material that has been used by physicians for decades. A full treatment of Sculptra, which is an average of three injection sessions over a few months, can last more than two years.

Unlike traditional fillers that are used for filling specific parts of the face, like nasolabial, lips, and under eye, Sculptra addresses volume loss from deep fat and bone loss throughout the face. The real signs of aging come from this deep loss of volume which in a young person is what supports the facial structures. And as we age and lose this deep volume, we see the facial structures falling and looking hollow and wrinkled. This is the true sign of aging. So Sculptra is injected in a deep plane in the temples, chin, medial cheeks, and nasolabial areas and in a more superficial level in the lateral cheeks and jaw area. These injections are done based on the individual’s needs. The treatment can last up to 3 years.

  • Sculptra is a collagen stimulator
  • Sculptra is indicated for the correction of shallow to deep nasolabial fold (smile lines) contour deficiencies and other facial wrinkles which are treated with the appropriate injection technique in healthy people
  • Replaces lost collagen in the area of treatment
  • Sculptra can gradually give you a more youthful looking appearance without making you look like you’ve had work done
  • Offers results that can last more than two years
  • Does not contain human, animal, or bacterial components
  • Does not require allergy testing prior to treatment
  • Does not involve lasers or incisions
  • Sculptra is absorbed naturally by the body

Do Sculptra Injections hurt?

A very tiny needle is all that is needed for the Sculptra procedure. Some patients report minor and temporary discomfort from Sculptra injection.

Where in the face is Sculptra used?

Sculptra is used to correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds as well as to replace lost facial volume which are treated with the appropriate injection technique. Sculptra is suitable for:

  • Deep folds between the nose and the mouth (nasolabial folds) also called smile lines.
  • The lines framing your mouth (marionette lines)
  • Chin wrinkles
  • Volume loss of the cheeks, temples, chin, jawline.

How long do Sculptra results last?

The injection component, which is made from poly-L-lactic acid, activates your own body to rebuild and replace the collagen that is lost as we age. It gets your own skin working for that glow. So, it takes about 21 days to see the full results after each treatment. Sculpra is not an instant fix, more of a longer lasting way to improve your appearance. But results can last for up to three years!

Am I a good candidate?

If you look in the mirror and long for a fuller youthful look, especially around the cheeks and above the lips, you may be a good candidate for Sculptra. If you desire to fill in lines and wrinkles in a more natural, long-lasting way, you may be a good candidate for Sculptra. Also, if you have experienced dramatic weight loss and your facial skin has been showing it, that makes you an excellent candidate for Sculptra. But, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or younger than 18? Sculptra is not for you.

Meet Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS

Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS is board-certified in head and neck surgery and highly-trained in cosmetic plastic surgery and facial reconstruction. Dr. Mourad is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He treats many conditions, both cosmetic and complex, that affect the head, neck... Learn More »

The Results