What Is Sculptra?

Sculpta is an FDA-approved biostimulating injectable made with poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Unlike traditional dermal fillers, Sculptra does more than “fill in” unwanted lines and wrinkles. When injected beneath the skin, it increases your body’s natural collagen production and restores the structural foundation of the face, adding fullness and volume from within. 

Sculptra’s main ingredient, PLLA, is a safe and biocompatible ingredient. Originally developed to treat HIV-related lipoatrophy, a condition that causes a loss of facial fat in people taking antiretroviral medications, today Sculpta is a leading aesthetic treatment for both men and women looking to improve the appearance of folds, wrinkles and contour deficiencies.

Benefits of Sculptra

  • FDA-approved injectable backed by clinical studies
  • Progressive improvements for a subtle, natural look
  • Long-lasting results that persist for up to two years
  • Can be combined with your other favorite treatments 
  • Minimally invasive with little to no downtime
  • Addresses multiple signs of aging, from wrinkles to volume loss

How Does Sculptra Work?

As we age, our bodies naturally produce less collagen, the protein responsible for keeping our skin firm and plump. By the time we reach 50, we’ve lost about 30% of our facial collagen, leading to deep wrinkles, sagging and hollowed areas around the cheeks and temples. 

Sculptra works to reverse the effects of volume loss by triggering a mild inflammatory response that stimulates fibroblasts, the primary cells involved in collagen production. As the product’s microspheres are gradually absorbed and metabolized over the next 12 to 24 months, they leave behind newly formed collagen structures that support a firm, youthful appearance.

Sculptra Treatment Areas

  • Temple hollowing
  • Deep lines and wrinkles
  • Facial folds
  • Marionette lines
  • Volume loss in the cheeks and mid-face
  • Jawline contouring
  • Hand rejuvenation

What to Expect During Treatment 

Your Sculptra appointment at Austin Skin & Wellness begins with a thorough consultation to evaluate your needs and aesthetic goals. The treatment process itself is relatively quick and takes about 20 minutes to complete (depending on the areas being addressed), but skin prep and numbing add time to your appointment. Expect to spend about an hour at our office. 

Using a fine needle, our skilled providers will inject Sculptra into specific areas of the face. You may feel a slight pinch with each injection, but most patients find the discomfort minimal and the experience tolerable, especially with numbing cream. After your injections are complete, the treated areas are massaged to ensure even distribution of the product and optimal results.

Is There Any Downtime or Recovery?

Like other anti-aging injectables, from Botox to dermal fillers, Sculptra involves little to no downtime. After your appointment, you might notice some redness at the injection sites, but you’ll be able to resume your normal routine with few restrictions. We ask that you avoid excessive sun exposure, alcohol and strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours for the best results. You’ll also be given specific aftercare instructions that include massaging the treated areas for five minutes a day, five times a day, for five days after your appointment (the 5-5-5 rule).

Sculptra results develop gradually over several months as your body produces new collagen. You may notice some immediate improvement due to its water content, but the true benefits of treatment become apparent over the following three to six months. These results can last up to two years or more, making Sculptra an excellent value for long-term facial rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Sculptra Results Last?

Sculptra can last for two years or more, significantly longer than hyaluronic acid-based fillers. The longevity of results varies among individuals based on factors such as age, skin condition and lifestyle habits. Because Sculptra stimulates your body’s own collagen production, the improvements are more durable than treatments that temporarily add artificial volume.

How Soon Will I See Results?

Sculpta may provide some initial plumping due to its water content, but your final results will develop gradually over several months as new collagen is produced. Most patients start to see a difference in skin firmness and quality four to six weeks after their Sculptra treatment. 

Can Sculptra Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Sculptra works beautifully as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan and can be artfully combined with other treatments such as Botox, laser therapies or traditional dermal fillers. During your consultation, we’ll discuss how Sculptra can fit into your overall aesthetic goals and recommend the most appropriate treatments for enhancing your results.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Most patients receive two to three treatments to achieve their desired results, while others are happy after a single treatment. The number of treatments (and injections) you’ll need varies depending on factors like your aesthetic goals, skin quality and individual treatment plan.

What Are the Potential Side Effects?

Sculptra is considered safe when administered by a qualified professional. Its active ingredient, PLLA, is absorbed naturally and has been in use for decades as a main component of dissolvable sutures. Additionally, it does not contain any human or animal-based components and no allergy test is required before treatment. As far as side effects after treatment, these are typically minimal and may include: redness, swelling, itching, lumps and bruising at the injection sites. You can minimize side effects by closely following all aftercare instructions.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help you nurture both your skin and soul, and answer any questions you may have.

Uncover Your Radiance with Sculptra – The Ultimate Skin Rejuvenation

Ready to transform your look? Sculptra is your key to restoring volume, smoothing wrinkles and revealing a more youthful, vibrant you. At Austin Skin & Wellness, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve stunning, natural results. Take the first step toward luminous, revitalized skin — your transformation starts now! Call us at (512) 551-8551, text 512-216-5808, or click here to book your appointment today!

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