Biostimulating treatments in Stafford, VA
Sculptra
Sculptra stimulates your body’s own collagen production, restoring structure and volume gradually for results that look natural and last up to 2 years.
SCULPTRA
Sculptra stimulates your body’s own collagen production, restoring structure and volume gradually for results that look natural and last up to 2 years.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is not a traditional filler. It’s a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulator that works beneath the surface of your skin to stimulate your skin’s natural collagen production. When injected, Sculptra particles act as a scaffold, stimulating new collagen production instead of instantly adding volume as a dermal filler. Over time, this rebuilds lost structure, targets skin laxity, improves skin texture, and softens wrinkles and folds for a more youthful appearance.
- Gradual collagen stimulation
- Natural, subtle results
- After a series of treatments, results can lasts up to 2 years
- Non-surgical facial rejuvenation
Before Treatment
In preparation for your Sculptra treatment, we recommend that you refrain from taking any blood thinning medications or supplements such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil. We also ask that you avoid any alcohol consumption at least 48 hours prior to your treatment. We recommend taking arnica montana tablets (oral) that you can get over the counter starting five to seven days prior to your treatment. Eating fresh pineapple can also help with bruising as it has natural enzymes, called bromelain, that have anti-inflammatory properties.
During Treatment
At the beginning of your Sculptra appointment, we will review your medical history, get you consented for the procedure, and take your before and after photos for your chart. A topical numbing cream is applied for about 10-15 minutes so the treatment is as comfortable as possible for you. Pain management tools are provided if desired.
After Treatment
You will experience some subtle volumization immediately from the volume of diluent used with Sculptra. However, that will subside over the next couple of days as your body absorbs the product. Bruising can be expected and may take up to 2-3 weeks to subside. A topical Arnica Montana product can help reduce any bruising post-treatment. We recommend using the 5/5/5 method: massage the injected areas 5 times a day, for 5 minutes, for a minimum of 5 days to encourage the integration of the product into your tissue. Avoid microneedling and other injectable treatments for at least 2 weeks after treatment. Collagen stimulation is a long game! We recommend 5 weeks in between treatments.
Results & Timeline
You can expect to see gradual improvement over several weeks as your skin builds new collagen. Best results can be seen 3 months after your series of Sculptra treatments. Patience is key! Your results will gradually get better and better as time goes on and your body will continue creating new collagen for up to 2 years after depending on individual factors and maintenance treatments. Typically, we recommend 1 vial of Sculptra for every decade of life. That means if you’re in your 40s, our goal would be to do at least 4 vials (2 vials per treatment).
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between dermal filler and Sculptra?
While hyaluronic acid based dermal fillers can replace volume in areas of facial volume loss or enhance certain features, Sculptra addresses the main cause of aging which is collagen loss itself.
When we begin to lose collagen and volume in certain areas of the face we begin noticing a hollowing, sunken or sagging appearance of the face. Sculptra works to address those not so pleasant symptoms of collagen loss to help create a facial framework. We like to call this our “slow and steady” injectable as results aren’t necessarily immediate as it takes collagen time to rebuild.
What is post treatment care for Sculptra?
We recommend using the 5/5/5 method: massaging the injected areas 5 times a day, for 5 minutes, for a minimum of 5 days after treatment.
How do I know how many Sculptra treatments I will need?
A good rule of thumb is that for every decade of life, you’ll need one vial of Sculptra. For example, if you’re in your 40’s and are looking to replace some of the collagen loss you’re starting to see, we recommend about 4 vials over a period of time. We suggest 2 vials per treatment.
Who is it not ideal for?
Unfortunately, this treatment is not suitable for expecting or breastfeeding mommas.
What do I do if I notice unusual bruising?
If you notice bruising that’s spreading or any unusual pain or heat, please reach out to us immediately at info@thistlemedicalaesthetics.com or calling 540-783-8209.
Is Sculptra The Best Treatment For You?
Start your aesthetic journey with a consultation! During this visit with a Nurse Practitioner, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and receive expert recommendations tailored to your anatomy, lifestyle, and long-term goals.