Q - What is Sculptra™?
A - Sculptra™ is a synthetic injectable material known as "poly-L-lactic acid." Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible (a material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants, and other types of implants.
Q - How does Sculptra™ work?
A - Sculptra™ is injected below the surface of the skin in the area of fat loss. Sculptra® provides a gradual increase in skin thickness. Visible results appear within the first few treatment sessions.
Sculptra™ will not correct the underlying cause of the facial fat loss, but will help improve the appearance by increasing skin thickness in the treated area.
Q - Do I need a skin test before being treated with Sculptra™?
A - No skin testing is required prior to use.
Q - Are the results from Sculptra™ immediate?
A - 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. Sculptra™ takes time to gradually correct the depression in your skin. Your healthcare provider will see you again in a few weeks to decide if you need more Sculptra™ injections.
Q - How many treatments are required?
A - Your healthcare provider will decide the appropriate number of treatment sessions and the amount of Sculptra™ you will need at each session. Patients with severe facial fat loss may require 3 to 6 treatment sessions.
Q - How long do treatment results last?
A - 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.
Q - Do injections of Sculptra™ hurt?
A - As with any injection, injections with Sculptra™ may hurt. Sculptra™ is injected in small amounts using a very fine needle. Your healthcare provider may apply a topical or local anesthetic.
Q - How quickly can I get back to my daily activities?
A - Most patients feel comfortable going back to their normal activities following treatment.
Q - When will I be able to apply make-up after treatment?
A - Make-up may be applied a few hours after treatment if no complications are present (for example, open wounds or bleeding).
Q - Who should not use Sculptra™?
A - You should not use Sculptra™ if you are allergic to any ingredient of Sculptra™. Talk to your healthcare provider about your medical history when deciding on treatment options. |
