Sculptra™ is an injectible filler agent that contains microparticles of poly-L-lactic acid, which is a biodegradable, synthetic polymer from the alpha-hydroxy-acid family.  Unlike other filler products, when Sculptra™ is injected and absorbed in the deep dermis, it stimulates dermal cells to produce collagen thus leading to increased dermal thickness and volume.
    

Sculptra™ was initially FDA approved for the use of facial volume restoration in HIV-associated lipoatrophy.  The success of Sculptra™ in correcting HIV lipoatrophy has made it a popular choice as a filler for cosmetic rejuvenation and in 2009, the FDA granted approval in the U.S. for the correction of shallow to deep nasolabial fold (smile lines) contour deficiencies and other facial wrinkles which are treated with the appropriate injection technique in healthy people.

You will notice an immediate difference in the areas treated due to the volume of fluid injected with the poly-L-lactic acid particle. However, within the weeks following the procedure you will notice a decrease in the volume of the area – it may seem like nothing was injected or that there were no results – this is normal. Over the next four to eight weeks collagen stimulation will occur in the deep dermis and the volume will be restored to the area treated. 

The product is best used for facial volume replacement in the cheeks, nasolabial folds, temples, chin, and brow area.

The injection of Sculptra is a simple, in-office procedure that takes about 15 –20 minutes.  Sculptra™ is reconstituted with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, which will help numb the area being treated. Additionally, topical numbing cream may be used to reduce the mild pain associated with the injections. 

Two to three treatments are recommended, given four to six weeks apart.  Each time the same process will occur in the skin, allowing the Sculptra™ to gradually increase dermal thickness, providing restored volume to the face for 12 to 24 months in most patients.

          Before and After Photos for Sculptra