Treatment FAQ
View All FAQsHow should I prepare for Sculptra treatment?
- Hold off on dental work and vaccines for 2 weeks prior to treatment.
- Discontinue use of fish oil, aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatories for at least 1 week prior to your appointment to reduce redness and bruising.
- If prone to bruising, start Arnica supplements 3 days prior to injections and continue for 3 days after.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and cigarettes for at least 48 hours before and after your treatment.
- Let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores.
- Schedule Sculptra at least two weeks prior to events.
When will I see results?
1 month, with results peaking around 3 to 6 months. A series of 3 is recommended.
How long will results last?
2 years. Yearly maintenance treatments are essential to maintain results.
Does it hurt?
No injectable treatment is completely pain-free, but most patients find Sculptra treatments quite tolerable. We do everything we can to keep you comfortable. We apply topical numbing cream before each filler treatment, and may numb the injection site with lidocaine before treatment.
Is Sculptra safe?
Yes, when administered by a qualified medical professional Sculptra is considered a safe and effective treatment. It’s an FDA-approved injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible and biodegradable substance that stimulates collagen production. Its safety profile is well-established for people with healthy immune systems, and it’s been used since 1999.
As with any aesthetic procedure, it’s essential to see a licensed and experienced injector with the knowledge and skill to properly and safely inject Sculptra.
How is Sculptra different from Dermal Filler?
The key differences lie in their composition and mechanisms of action: Dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid and restore volume immediately when injected, typically lasting 6 to 18 months.
Sculptra doesn’t immediately ‘fill’ like dermal fillers. It is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) that triggers your body to produce its own collagen over time, gradually restoring volume and improving skin texture, with results lasting 2 years or more.