Sculptra is a collagen biostimulator containing microparticles of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). It is a 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.
Collagen is a key structural component of smooth, healthy-looking skin. With aging, the body’s collagen production decreases. In fact, facial aging begins in your 20s, when you start losing about 1% of the collagen in your skin per year. This is when you may start to notice the formation of wrinkles.
Skin firmness decreases as a result of both internal factors (genetics and natural aging) and external factors (sun exposure, smoking, stress, etc.). The loss of collagen causes loose and saggy skin, shallow wrinkles, deep folds and loss of facial volume.
Sculptra works to improve facial wrinkles and skin thickness gradually, as it stimulates natural collagen production to restore the inner structure of the skin, thereby recreating a youthful appearance.
An increase in collagen by 66% has been observed 3 months after treatment. In a study where Sculptra has been used for the treatment of nasolabial fold wrinkles, consistent improvement has been observed for up to 25 months.
Why Sculptra?
SCULPTRA ADDRESSES AN UNDERLYING CAUSE OF FACIAL AGING, NOT JUST THE SYMPTOMS
Not All Anti-Aging Treatments Are the Same:
Collagen creams: Collagen creams do not fully penetrate to the dermis, so most topical treatments are effective as moisturisers that briefly improve the skin’s appearance.
Collagen Supplements: When ingested, the digestive system breaks down collagen proteins and their effectiveness remains inconclusive.
Toxins: Toxins temporarily weaken muscles to minimise frown lines in the forehead. Results typically last a couple months.
Fillers: Works immediately upon injection to fill in lines, wrinkles and folds.
High levels of patient satisfaction was also observed where 80% of patients who received Sculptra rated their results as “overall good to excellent” at the 25 months post last-treatment visit.
How is Sculptra different from Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers?
Whilst Sculptra and Hyaluronic Acid fillers are both highly effective at adding volume to create a more youthful appearance, they achieve these results through very different mechanisms. Hyaluronic Acid fillers physically occupy the space under the tissue to smooth out lines, creases and wrinkles, delivering immediate results. Sculptra works by stimulating the fibroblasts to create new collagen fibers, which occurs more gradually. It is hypothesized that Hyaluronic Acid fillers have some effect on collagen type I, through stretching of fibroblasts during injection. Although not directly comparable, collagen stimulation with Sculptra is significantly higher and has longer duration than that seen with Hyaluronic Acid fillers.
Biopsies taken following treatment with Sculptra demonstrate that as the product itself is degraded within the skin and reabsorbed, there is an accompanying gradual ingrowth of collagen type I, with the new collagen fibers providing structure, elasticity and volume to the skin.
Patients suitable for treatment with Sculptra
- Patients in their 40s
- Patients with mild-to-moderate collagen loss
- Patients with mild-to-moderate skin laxity
- Patients showing signs of sagging and damaged skin
- Patients looking for gradual, natural and long-lasting results
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Sculptra treatments involve?
The Sculptra treatment consists of an initial injection session and subsequent assessment and/or further injection sessions, which must be at least 4 weeks apart from the last Sculptra injection.
Depending on the area treated and individual expectations, at least 2 to 3 sessions, each 4 to 6 weeks apart, may be needed.
How long does a Sculptra treatment last?
After the initial swelling from injection subsides in several hours to a few days, the original skin depression, wrinkle or fold may reappear. The Sculptra treatment provides a gradual improvement of the treated area over several weeks as the skin forms new collagen at the treated area. Visible improvements may be seen from 1 – 3 months onwards and may last for up to 25 months depending on the area treated and individual conditions.
Before and After Photos
In compliance with MOH guidelines in Singapore, we are not allowed to post before-and-after images on our website and social media platforms. However, we are more than willing to share such images for your perusal during your in-clinic consultation with us.
What do I need to take note of after the treatment?
A Sculptra treatment involves minimal downtime. You may resume normal daily activities immediately after treatment. Avoid exposure to the sun, UV lamps, extreme temperatures, and other skin or facial procedures such as laser treatments or chemical peeling, until any swelling or redness has completely resolved.
In the 5 days following treatment, the treated areas should be thoroughly massaged for 5 minutes, 5 times a day to ensure that the product is evenly distributed, so as to achieve a natural-looking correction. An appropriate facial moisturiser should be used to perform the massage to reduce friction.
Are there any side effects for Sculptra?
As with any injectable, side effects may occur in association with treatment. Common side effects include transient bleeding, pain, redness, tenderness, bruising, swelling at the injection site. These side effects generally resolve within 2 to 6 days. Other less common side effects include allergic reactions, formation of lumps, or skin infections.