Sculptra is an innovative treatment aimed at skin tightening and volume restoration. It is a collagen biostimulator, meaning that Sculptra stimulates the skin's own production of collagen. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which give immediate results, Sculptra works gradually. It has a tightening and lifting effect on the skin.
Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic substance that helps restore lost volume to the face. As collagen builds up, the skin becomes firmer and smoother, leading to natural-looking and long-lasting results.
Sculptra is often used for:
Reducing signs of aging in the face (such as sunken cheeks and deep wrinkles)
Restoring facial volume lost due to aging or weight loss
Reducing fine lines and wrinkles in the long run
Sculptra is suitable for various areas of the face where volume has been lost and where stimulating collagen can help firm the skin and reduce wrinkles. The most common areas treated with Sculptra are:
Cheeks: Sculptra is often used to firm and elevator sunken cheeks. Collapsed cheeks are a common sign of aging. Restoring volume to the cheeks creates a more youthful, fuller face.
Around the mouth (nasolabial folds and marionette lines): The lines around the mouth, such as nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth) and marionette lines (wrinkles from the corners of the mouth to the chin), can deepen as we age. Sculptra can help soften these lines and create tighter skin.
Temples (the temples on the side of the face): Volume loss in the temples is also common as we age. Sculptra can restore this area to create a more balanced facial contour.
Chin area: Loss of volume in the chin area can lead to a "drooping" appearance. Sculptra can help plump up this area and improve contouring.
Sculptra is a versatile treatment that not only helps to soften fine lines and wrinkles, but also to restore the overall volume of the face. Because it has a slow and gradual effect, it provides natural-looking results.
First, a consultation with the attending cosmetic doctor takes place. Together you will discuss the expectations and goals of the Sculptra treatment. The doctor will do a skin analysis and determine which areas need to be treated to achieve the desired results.
Prior to the treatment, the skin is cleansed. Sculptra is then injected into the desired areas of the face using a thin cannula. The doctor injects small amounts of the solution deep under the skin, where the poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) will stimulate the skin to produce collagen. Because of the anesthetic used, the treatment is often well tolerated without much pain. After the injections, the treated areas will be well massaged by the doctor. You will also receive instructions to massage the treated areas gently in the days following the treatment. The 5-5-5 rule applies here: 5 days, massage 5 times a day for 5 minutes.
The results of Sculptra are gradual and do not come immediately after treatment. Instead, it stimulates the production of collagen in your skin, which can take several weeks to months. Most people begin to see the first improvements after 4 weeks, but the full effect is usually seen around 3-6 months, as the collagen builds up over that time.
The doctor will create a treatment plan with you with the appropriate goal: prevention or correction. This treatment plan will include determining the number of vials and discussing whether multiple treatment sessions are needed. The results are lasting and can last up to 2 years or longer, depending on the person and their skin quality.
After undergoing a Sculptra treatment, you therefore have to wait a while for the full effect, but the results are long-lasting and natural.
When you should start Sculptra depends on your personal needs, how your skin is aging and your aesthetic goals. There is no set age at which you should start, but here are some factors that can help you decide:
Loss of volume: Sculptra is ideal for people who have lost volume in their face, which is often one of the first signs of aging. This can manifest itself in sunken cheeks, sagging skin or deepening wrinkles. If you notice that your face seems less full and your skin feels less firm, Sculptra may be a good option.
Onset of wrinkles and folds: If you begin to notice fine lines or wrinkles forming, for example around the mouth, eyes or on the cheeks, Sculptra can help reduce the effect of aging. It is often more effective when used preventively or early in the process, to stop further aging.
Natural result: Because Sculptra encourages the skin to produce collagen, it is especially suitable for people who want a more gradual and natural rejuvenation, rather than a sudden or drastic change. If you are looking for a long-lasting effect without appearing "over-treated," Sculptra is an excellent choice.
Age: Although it is not a set guideline, many people start Sculptra around the age of 30 to 40, when they begin to notice that the skin is losing volume, but it can also be useful for older people who want to address signs of aging.
So the best time to start Sculptra is when you notice that your skin volume is starting to decrease or when your wrinkles and lines are getting deeper. Of course, you can get personalized advice from our doctors, who can assess what is best for your skin.
Sculptra is a safe, natural and effective method to firm the skin and restore volume loss. It stimulates your own skin to produce collagen, which leads to many benefits for skin firming.