Facial Rejuvenation

Sculptra® Aesthetic

 To view before and after photos of Sculptra treatments click here.

FDA approved Sculptra® Aesthetic is a product developed for the loss of volume in the face. Sculptra® Aesthetic is a synthetic product which is injected through a small needle into the areas of the face which have volume loss. It is known as poly-L-lactic acid. Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible (a material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (material able to be broken down by the body).It has been safely used for over 30 years in re-absorbable sutures, soft tissue implants and other types of implants.

Sculptra® Aesthetic is injected below the skin in areas where there is fat loss. Sculptra® Aesthetic stimulates the production of collagen causing a gradual increase in skin thickness. Treatments are spaced six to eight weeks apart to allow for the production of collagen and visualization of the result. Further treatments may be needed after evaluation. Most patients will require at least two treatments. The average number of treatments required is three.

The results of Sculptra® Aesthetica are not immediately apparent because the production of collagen takes place over a period of time. It may appear at first the Sculptra® Aesthetic has worked immediately because of initial swelling and the injection of fluid. This will resolve over two days and you will look as you did before the treatment. Over the next six months you will see the development of collagen. Results start to be apparent after six weeks and continue to improve over the next six months.

Sculptra® Aesthetic is an excellent treatment choice for patients with fat loss due to the aging process who would like more volume in their face. The treatment is an alternative to surgical fat transfer with less down time. Many patients enjoy the more "natural" or slow progression of collagen appearance as it leaves other with the that burning question - They know you look better than ever, but they can't figure out why! Unlike other fillers which have an immediate result giving away the fact that you've had something done, Sculptra® Aesthetic will keep them guessing!

Together with the cosmetic nurse specialist you will discuss the number of treatments necessary and the amount of Sculptra® Aesthetic you will require at each treatment. By waiting six to eight weeks, you will see the results of the treatment and decide if more treatments are required and where more volume is needed. Patients with severe facial fat loss may require 3-6 treatments. Clinical studies have shown the results will last two years. Most patients will require a touch-up treatment to maintain the results.

Treatments with Sculptra® Aesthetic can result in side effects such as bruising, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site at the time of the treatment. These effects subside within 3-17 days. As with any procedure that involves an injection through the skin, there is always the chance of infection. One possible delayed effect which can occur 6-12 months after the first treatment, is the development of small bumps under the skin in the treated area. These bumps may not be visible and may only be noticed by feeling them. They usually go away on their own. Any side effects should be reported to the Cosmetic Nurse Specialists or Physicians in the Williams Rejuva Center.

A skin test prior to treatment with Sculptra® Aesthetic is not necessary. Sculptra® Aesthetic has been used for decades without allergic reaction.

Patients interested in Sculptra® Aesthetic may meet with the Physician, Nurse Practitioner and/or Cosmetic Nurse Specialist to discuss goals and evaluate your face. All aspects of the treatment, including costs and risks will be discussed. Sculptra® Aesthetic treatments are performed by a Cosmetic Nurse Specialist in the Williams Rejuva Center. The Rejuva Center provides a comfortable relaxing spa-like atmosphere. Numbing cream will be applied to your face about one half hour prior to your treatment. Patients report minimal to mild discomfort. After the treatment you can drive yourself home, as there is no systemic anesthesia required.

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