Sculptra costs
The average cost of Sculptra is about $600 per session. Patients may need anywhere from one to six sessions to achieve the desired results. The cost for Sculptra injections also depends on the individual physician's fees and the amount of Sculptra required to treat the target area.
Am I a candidate for Sculptra?
Most people are medically able to receive Sculptra injections. There is no risk of allergic reactions, although those with active skin infections or immunodeficiency should consult a doctor before undergoing Sculptra treatments. Patients who choose to undergo Sculptra injections are usually between the ages of 30 and 65 and are looking to reduce signs of aging in the face. Common treatment areas include:
- Deep lines extending from the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds or smile lines)
- Lines extending downwards from the corners of the mouth (marionette lines)
- Chin wrinkles
- Hollows or depressions in the skin, such as sunken cheeks
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is an FDA-approved dermal filler made from poly-L-lactic acid. With Sculptra, tiny particles of PLA are suspended in sterile water. New collagen growth is stimulated by the presence of the poly-L-lactic acid in the Sculptra injection. Within the deepest layers of the skin, Sculptra helps to replace lost collagen and provide a foundation for your body to increase collagen production, gradually restoring volume in the face, resulting in a refreshed and younger-looking appearance.
Sculptra steps
A topical or local anesthetic will be used to minimize discomfort. Sculptra is injected through a very fine needle into targeted areas of the face. An ice pack may be applied immediately following the injection to reduce swelling. Many doctors will massage the treated area to distribute the injected Sculptra evenly. Following the injection, patients are allowed to leave the office immediately. Most patients receive three to six injections spaced about a month apart.
Sculptra Recovery and Healing Steps
There is no downtime following Sculptra treatments. Most patients are able to return to work and other daily activities immediately. Patients are advised to massage the injection site regularly for up to a week, which can minimize the risk of developing small bumps or nodules under the skin.
Immediately following the injection, the volume of the area may be visibly improved; this is a result of the volume of sterile water used to dilute the PLA, and will diminish over the week or two following treatment. The actual results of Sculptra injections are not apparent immediately, because it takes time for the body to produce new collagen. Within the first few treatment sessions, you should begin to see visible results.
Sculptra Side Effects and Procedure Risks
Common side effects of Sculptra injections include temporary tenderness, redness, bruising, or swelling. Occasionally, small bumps may appear under the skin in the treated area. This risk has an incidence of 1% or less in patients treated with Sculptra, and can be reduced by massaging the treated area regularly during the week following the injections.