Sculptra is an injectable filler able to restore volume and correct the signs of facial fat loss. Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic material that is biocompatible and biodegradable. Sculptra is injected beneath the skin’s surface, resulting in a gradual and significant increase in skin thickness, and may be used to treat sunken cheeks, hollow eyes, indentations, folds and other sunken areas. Good candidates for Sculptra injections include individuals who are physically healthy, realistic in their expectations and looking to improve the appearance of facial fat loss. Sculptra is not appropriate for those who are allergic to any of the ingredients in Sculptra or have an active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area.
Sculptra injections are typically administered in a surgeon’s office and can take anywhere from fifteen to forty minutes to complete depending on the number and size of areas being treated. A local or topical anesthetic may first be administered and then small amounts of Sculptra are injected into the skin through multiple injections using a very fine needle. Some swelling, redness or bruising may occur after injection though these symptoms typically fade within a few hours to a few days. Ice packs applied during the first twenty-four hours can help to reduce swelling. The treated area will need to be massaged several times a day for several days. Additional treatment may be required after several weeks. Most patients are able to immediately return to work and other activities, though excessive sun exposure should be avoided until any swelling and redness have cleared. Sculptra can provide results lasting up to two years.