Sculptra Aesthetic™

What is Sculptra®Aesthetic?

Sculptra Aesthetic is a new type of facial injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid, which helps to replace lost collagen. It helps correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles, and folds, that appear with aging by replacing lost collagen. The main ingredient is a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic material that has been used by physicians for decades.

Now FDA approved for "Facial Rejuvenation", Sculptra™ can be used  to restore the fullness of your temples, cheeks, chin, glabella, eye areas, and hands.  Poly-L-lactic acid has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants, and other types of implants.

Do I need a skin test before being treated with Sculptra®?
No skin testing is required prior to use. You should notify your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to dissolvable stitches or the material used in Sculptra. 

How does Sculptra work?

Sculptra Aesthetic works to replace lost collagen in a series of treatments administered by a Sculptra Aesthetic trained physician. On average, three injection sessions are needed over a period of a few months. The number of injection sessions and the number of injections per session vary from person to person.

Are the results from Sculptra® immediate?
No. At your first treatment visit, it may appear that Sculptra® worked immediately because of swelling from the injections and the water used to dilute Sculptra®. In a few days, when the swelling goes down and the water is absorbed by your body, you may look as you did before your treatment. Some visible improvements can be seen within the first few weeks of treatment, but the Sculptra Aesthetic regimen is designed to deliver its unique effects over the course of a few months. Typically, an average of 3 treatment sessions over a period of a few months – and because results happen gradually, you’ll see subtle yet noticeable results in the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds.

How many treatments are required?
Typically, an average of 3 treatment sessions over a period of a few months – and because results happen gradually, you’ll see subtle yet noticeable results in the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds.  Patients with severe loss of facial volume may require more treatment sessions.  Remember, in order to get the most out of Sculptra Aesthetic, you should complete the full course of treatment sessions as recommended by your doctor.

How long do treatment results last?
Treatment results will differ for each person. In a clinical study, the treatment results lasted for up to 2 years after the first treatment session, in most patients. Touch-up treatments may be needed to maintain the desired effect.

Do injections of Sculptra® hurt?
As with any injection, injections with Sculptra® may hurt. Sculptra® is injected in small amounts using a very fine needle. Your doctor may apply a topical or local anesthetic.

What can I expect to happen at a treatment session?
Your doctor will answer all of your questions and prepare you for the treatment.

• Make-up should be removed.
• The area where the injections will be given will be cleaned with an antiseptic.
• You and your doctor will determine if a topical or local anesthetic is needed.
• Sculptra® will be injected in small amounts into the skin using a very fine needle. Multiple injections will be needed.

Aftercare instructions

• An ice pack should be applied to the treatment area to help reduce swelling.

• Give yourself facial massages; massage the treated area a few times each day for several days after treatment as directed by your physician.

• Avoid excess sunlight and UV exposure until any initial swelling or redness goes away.    

For more information, visit the Sculptra web site.

Please note:  The results of Sculptra™ are not immediate.  At your first treatment visit, it may appear that Sculptra Aesthetic worked immediately because of swelling from the injections and the water used to dilute Sculptra.  A few days following the treatment, when the swelling goes down and the water is absorbed by your body, you may look as you did before your treatment.  Sculptra takes time to gradually restore volume.

Dermatology & Laser Center of San Antonio™

Steven A. Davis, MD Medical Director

7810 Louis Pasteur, Suite 200

San Antonio, TX 78229

210.614.3355

dermcenter@dermlaser.com

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