Sculptra®

Wellington, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Loxahatchee

Sculptra® (also called New-Fill™ in other countries) is a poly-L-lactic-acid-based injectable dermal filler. Sculptra® is very effective when used as a treatment for wrinkles and fine lines on the face, and it can also be used to improve facial volume and treat lipoatrophy, which is the facial wasting or loss of facial fat associated with aging and menopause. Unlike other dermal fillers, the results of Sculptra® treatment take time to develop.

What is Sculptra®?

Used throughout Europe under the name of New-Fill™ since 1999, Sculptra® is an injectable treatment made from poly-L-lactic acid that was FDA approved in August 2004 for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy (facial wasting). The main ingredient in Sculptra®, poly-L-lactic acid, has been used for more than 20 years in surgical products, including dissolvable stitches. Since Sculptra® is comprised of biocompatible material there is no need for allergy testing prior to treatment with Sculptra®.

Candidates for Sculptra® Injections

Most people with facial wasting are suitable candidates for Sculptra® treatments. Since Sculptra® is biologically inert, there is very little risk of patients developing an allergic reaction to treatments. Patients who take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, or who take blood thinners such as Coumadin may experience more bruising from Sculptra® treatments.

The Sculptra® Treatment Process

Sculptra® is injected using thin needles in a pattern designed to correct the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and facial lipoatrophy. The amount of Sculptra® needed to treat an individual patient's face to reach their goals, as well as the number of visits required to complete the Sculptra® treatments is highly variable. Immediately after treatment with Sculptra®, the face will look fuller. This fullness is due to the water and local anesthetic that is mixed with the Sculptra® and it only lasts a few days. After the water and local anesthetic are absorbed , the face will return to its pre treatment appearance. Over the next few weeks, the Sculptra® will start to promote the growth of new collagen. During the next four to six weeks, this new collagen will create a fuller and more youthful appearance which will last for 2-5 years. Prior to each Sculptra® treatment, Dr. Sinclair will apply a topical anesthetic cream to minimize your discomfort. Typical treatments last about 15-30 minutes.

Risks and Benefits of Sculptra® Treatment

The positive effects of Sculptra® treatment include increased skin thickness and improved facial volume, which lead to a healthier, more youthful appearance. Side effects of Sculptra® may include tenderness, swelling, and redness at injection sites. Results of Sculptra® injections may take four to six weeks to become noticeable.