Regaining your youthful appearance at any age is easier today than ever before. Injectable treatments make it a snap to smooth away those facial creases and restore volume for a younger facial profile. Now, a relative newcomer to the scene is changing the way we look at injectable procedures. With subtle, gradual and long-lasting results, it is easy to see why many patients are turning to Sculptra® Aesthetic as their new anti-aging treatment.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a new type of dermal filler that contains poly-L- lactic acid as its active ingredient. The substance has been used for many years in the medical realm but has just recently come on the cosmetic scene. Poly-L- lactic acid is effective as a dermal filler because it actually stimulates the body’s own production of collagen.
How does it work?
Collagen is an essential substance produced by the body that supports the underlying skin structure and gives skin its smooth, supple appearance. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen and that leads to skin looseness and the formation of facial wrinkles. By restoring collagen production, we can actually turn back the clock and restore a youthful appearance to the complexion.
What does it treat?
Sculptra is particularly effective in smoothing away facial wrinkles from around the mouth and nose. Specific creases treated with Sculptra include:
- Nasolabial Folds – lines that extend from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Smile Lines – small vertical lines that appear in the outer corners of the mouth
- Marionette Lines – creases that extend from the mouth to the jawline
In addition, Sculptra can add volume to areas like the cheeks and jawline. Sculptra is not typically advised for delicate areas like the eyes or around the lips. It is also not generally used on lines in the upper face. However, there are other injectable treatments that can be used in these areas to further enhance your cosmetic results.
What is the procedure like?
Sculptra injections are placed deeper than other injectables, so patients often have a topical numbing cream prior to treatment to ensure comfort during the procedure. In addition, the Sculptra formulation contains lidocaine to make the injections more comfortable. Injections generally take just a few minutes to complete and there is no downtime after the procedure.
How long will results last?
The Sculptra formulation offers subtle results almost right away, with results improving over time. As the Sculptra formula is gradually absorbed by the body, natural collagen production takes over the process so that results are maintained for up to two years. Most patients will need three treatment sessions to achieve their full desired results and then a touch-up treatment every year or two once those full results are realized.
Can Sculptra be combined with other procedures?
Sculptra can be effectively combined with other injectable treatments like Juvederm or Botox to create more dramatic results. If you would like to have other skin rejuvenation treatments like Fraxel, it may be schedule these procedures before your Sculptra appointment to avoid any possible side effects.
Sculptra is an effective treatment that offers natural, long-lasting results. To learn more about this procedure, contact Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics at 760-472-5088 or 858-943-2443.