Sculptra^® for Facial Volume Loss

Facial volume loss is a common occurrence with age, as fatty tissues beneath the skin deteriorate and become depleted. To help patients address such volume loss, California Skin Institute can use the Sculptra^® filler to thicken the skin in target areas, thus easing the appearance of hollowness. This treatment was formulated specifically for the problem of lost facial volume and can provide long-lasting improvements by increasing the skin’s elasticity.

What is Sculptra^®?

Sculptra® is an FDA-approved dermal filler that works by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production to increase the thickness of the skin. It is used by California Skin Institute providers to help patients reduce hollowness in the face induced by loss of fatty tissue, as well as to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How Sculptra^® Works

The main ingredient in Sculptra^® is PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid). The basis of this ingredient is lactic acid, which is the same chemical created by our muscles after we exercise. However, in Sculptra^®, the molecules of lactic acid are linked together in strings.

When injected into the skin, Sculptra^® affects the wrinkles and hollowness in two ways. Firstly, it provides some immediate volume under the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. However, the immediate improvement is not as dramatic as would be experienced with a hyaluronic acid filler.

Secondly, the PLLA molecules stimulate the body’s production of collagen over time, which helps increase the skin’s thickness. These medium-term effects are the primary benefits of this filler, as they increase your skin’s resiliency against gravity, repetitive facial movements and loss of volume.

What Sculptra^® Treats

Sculptra^® injections are FDA-approved for the treatment of facial volume loss, which is often caused by the depletion of fatty tissues. By increasing the thickness of the skin, the face gains a fuller appearance.

However, it is important to note that the Sculptra^® filler approach is quite different from hyaluronic acid fillers like Voluma^® or Belotero^® Balance. Whereas Sculptra^® aims to build up the thickness of the skin to increase elasticity, hyaluronic acid fillers draw moisture to the treatment area to create the volume.

Most commonly, California Skin Institute providers will use Sculptra^® to address volume loss in the cheeks, temples, and to treat nasolabial folds.

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra^® is not used to treat crow’s feet or areas under the eyes, as the skin in these parts of the face may be too thin for this filler to provide the best outcomes. Botox^® injections for crow’s feet or the use of Restylane^® filler around the eyes may be better options.

How Long Does Sculptra^® Last?

Initial injections are applied gradually, in several sessions, over the course of several months.

The longevity of results can be significantly improved with touch-up Sculptra^® injections to maintain regular collagen growth.

What to Expect During Treatment?

During your consultation at California Skin Institute, your provider will assess your skin to see where injections with this filler will bring the most benefit. In some cases, the best results may be achieved by using Sculptra^® to build up skin thickness in the cheeks and temples, while using other dermal fillers to smooth out wrinkles around the eyes.

After your first set of injections is complete, an appointment will be scheduled for follow-up treatments 4-6 weeks thereafter. Usually, California Skin Institute patients need approximately multiple sessions for best outcomes.

Does Sculptra^® Hurt?

California Skin Institute patients tolerate injections very well due to our use of topical anesthetics. There is virtually no pain or discomfort during treatment.

California Skin Institute: Top 100 Sculptra^® Provider

California Skin Institute has been named a Top 100 volume injector of Sculptra ^®.

This Top 100 recognition is a testament to our experience and expertise with the Sculptra^® product and procedure, making our practice the destination of choice for high patient satisfaction with quality outcomes.

For more information about Sculptra^®, call or find a location near you and request a consultation!

Conditions treated by Sculptra®

• Facial Volume Loss
• Frown Lines