Sculptra Aesthetic® has been approved for use in the United States and around the world since 1999. Typically, Sculptra® is used to correct deep facial wrinkles and folds, and it can also be used to improve facial volume and treat lipoatrophy. But beyond that, Sculptra® can be used to treat cellulite.
How Does Sculptra® Work on Cellulite?
This injectable dermal filler contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic material which is both biocompatible and biodegradable. In fact, it’s commonly found in dissolvable stitches and is gradually and naturally absorbed by the body. When using Sculptra®® on cellulite, the treatment is minimally invasive. It stimulates your body to create new collagen which fills up the dimple.
What’s the Treatment Process?
While standing, I will locate the cellulite dimples and mark them. Just before the injection of Sculptra®, lidocaine is added to reduce discomfort from the actual injection. Using the fine needle, I release the fibrous bands which are pulling down on the skin and then inject the Sculptra® with the same fine-gauge needle.
Immediately after treatment, the areas are massaged for a few minutes to distribute the Sculptra® suspension evenly. This also helps prevent any lumps or bumps from appearing. Luckily, here is little to no downtime after receiving these injections for cellulite. Most patients return to normal activities immediately, but you can apply a cold compress as needed. Bruising is expected since it requires an injection and additional needle work. After 6 weeks, patients come in for their follow up. At that time, we can assess if your body filled the dimple in completely or if more product is needed. Patients who prefer a gradual change really like this aspect of Sculptra®.
What’s Different About Sculptra®?
There are many treatments for cellulite, but Sculptra® works differently. As a collagen stimulator with PLLA, it works deep within the dermis to help imbue new life and vitality to collagen production. This helps restore your skin’s inner structure and substance.
As Sculptra® is absorbed, the PLLA microparticles help stimulate the body’s own collagen production, bringing a fullness that smooths wrinkles and folds. Collagen production gradually increases, making the volume-enhancing results of the Sculptra® treatment apparent in about four to six weeks.
It’s important to keep in mind that some of the immediate fullness in the treated area is simply water content that recedes in a few days. The true and lasting effects of Sculptra® treatment takes longer to become evident and multiple treatments may be needed at first. Once results are achieved, the results can last for up to two years or more, depending on your unique skin.
Is Sculptra® Right for Me?
In addition to working on cellulite, Sculptra® corrects facial aging, providing natural, youthful-looking skin. It might be right for you in the following situations:
- You have smile lines or marionette folds (the pronounced creases that run from the corners of the mouth down the chin)
- You have wrinkles on your chin
- You have lost facial fullness due to aging or sickness
- Your temples are starting to look hollow
- You are beginning to see jowls forming
- You are one of the 90% of women who are worried about cellulite
Is It Safe to Use Sculptra® on Cellulite?
Yes, it is! PLLA, the main ingredient in Sculptra®, is biologically inert and generally does not pose a risk of allergic reaction for patients. Still, it is important to inform your doctor of any immune deficiencies, skin infections, rashes, or if you take medications like aspirin and anti-inflammatories that may affect the outcome of your treatment.
Whether you choose to use Sculptra® for cellulite or to correct fine lines and wrinkles, this natural looking and subtle filler makes your skin look fresher and more youthful. To learn more or to set up an appointment, contact the Elizabeth Roche M.D. MedSpa today.