What’s the difference between dermal fillers and Scupltra? Sculptra is an injectable biostimulator made of of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Sculptra has a liquid consistency and is injected underneath the skin. Once injected, Sculptra incorporates into the tissues and stimulates your body’s natural production of collagen.
On the other hand, dermal fillers are made of Hyaluronic acid designed to hold its shape in the form of a gel-like substance. Dermal fillers do not stimulate collagen production, but rather are meant to temporarily replace missing volume. The effects of dermal filler are apparent immediately. Whereas the effects of Sculptra happens gradually since it takes time for the body to build collagen.
Both Dermal filler and Sculptra are designed to address lost volume, fine lines, folds and wrinkles. Due to the aging process, environmental stressors, and our genetic predisposition, we suffer from loss of collagen the age of 20. Loss of collagen leads to thinning of skin which results in the formation of wrinkles and folds. Collagen is a fibrous protein in the deep dermal layer that gives our skin structural support and helps to maintain shape, moisture, and elasticity of the skin. A healthy supply of collagen is the source of smooth skin and a youthful appearance.
How Does Sculptra Work?
SCULPTRA (PLLA) is a bio-stimulating treatment. Sculptra works by addressing the underlying cause of aging skin from loss of collagen. Once injected in the face (or buttocks), Sculptra stimulates the natural growth of new collagen. This leads to restoration of facial volume over time and a dramatic improvement of the skin texture. Results are natural and become noticeable after 2-4 sessions (based on individual concerns). The effects of Sculptra can last up to 25 months.
Is there any downtime with Sculptra?
You can expect to have mild soreness and swelling at the injection sites for about 1 week until the Sculptra incorporates into the tissues. Bruising can sometimes occur.
When can I expect Results with Sculptra?
Subtle results can typically be seen within a month of Sculptra injection. These results will continue to build as new collagen can take up to 6 months to form.