Natural-Looking Filler: Sculptra in Webster and Houston, TX

As annoying as lines and wrinkles can be, they are not the only aging symptom that can affect your appearance and your self-confidence. Loss of volume around the midface can also cause facial hollowing and exacerbate the aged look. Skin laxity can also be a problem along the jawline, as jowls begin to form. Sculptra is an injectable treatment that works deep into the dermal structure to restore support, add volume and smooth away even the most severe facial lines. This filler works in a very different fashion from other products on the market today, providing gradual, long-lasting results as it works with the body’s own processes to turn back time on your appearance.

WHAT IS POLY-L-LACTIC ACID?

Poly-L-lactic acid is the active substance in Sculptra that creates the more youthful results you want. This ingredient is a synthetic version of lactic acid, which is naturally produced by the body during exercise. This biodegradable, biocompatible substance has been used for many years in implants and stitches, so it has a lengthy track record of safety in the medical realm. When used as a cosmetic treatment, poly-L-lactic acid is a collagen stimulator, meaning it can trigger the body to produce additional collagen.

WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

Collagen is a protein the body manufactures to support the dermal structure among other functions. During our younger years, this substance is plentiful to produce a smooth, supple look to the skin. As we age, collagen levels diminish leading to skin laxity and the formation of wrinkles. When we restore collagen levels through treatments like Sculptra, we can reverse the aging process somewhat, to restore youthful vitality to the complexion.

HOW SCULPTRA WORKS

Because Sculptra works as a collagen stimulator, we can turn back the clock on the appearance both gradually and naturally. The treatment can be used to address the following concerns:

• Loss of volume in the cheeks and midface
• Hollowing around the temples
• Early signs of jowl formation along the jawline
• Nasolabial folds, also known as smile lines
• Marionette lines and chin wrinkles

The formulation is often recommended for patients with more severe signs of aging that might not see satisfactory results from the traditional hyaluronic acid fillers. It is also the choice for patients looking for a longer-lasting outcome. In addition to treating areas of the face, Sculptra is also sometimes used to minimize the appearance of noticeable veins on the backs of the hands and for rejuvenating the chest and decollete. Our experienced injectors will evaluate your concerns and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine whether Sculptra is the right treatment choice for you.

HOW IS THE SCULPTRA PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

Sculptra injections are performed the same way other filler treatments are done. One of our expert injectors will determine the best locations for the injections based on the correction needed and the results the patient wants to achieve. A topical anesthetic is not usually necessary but can be applied before treatment for patients worried about their comfort level during the procedure. Injections are made more deeply into the dermal layers than other fillers to ensure the substance gets where it can have the most significant effect.

Most Sculptra treatments take just a few minutes to complete. If you opt for a topical numbing cream, additional time will be needed to allow the anesthetic to take effect. You should be able to return to your regular routine after your procedure right away.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER TREATMENT

woman after sculptra

You might notice some soreness and mild swelling after your Sculptra treatment, depending on the areas that were treated and the number of injections that were used. Cold compresses can be used for the first day or two if the swelling is bothersome. Over-the-counter pain medications are also an option to reduce soreness. Redness is another common side effect after Sculptra injections, but makeup typically camouflages the discoloration, so you can head back to work or other activities without telltale signs you just had a cosmetic procedure performed.

OPTIMIZING RESULTS

Keep in mind you won’t see any dramatic improvement to your appearance immediately following your Sculptra treatment. In fact, most patients will wait at least a month before enhancements start to appear. Over the next few months, those results will continue to improve and will last for up to two years in most cases.

While positive results can be seen after a single Sculptra treatment, patients achieve optimal results by scheduling a series of two to four sessions spaced about one month apart. We will discuss the best treatment plan for you at your initial consultation. Rest assured that once you see the outcome you want, a single treatment session every year or two will help you maintain them indefinitely.

Sculptra is an outstanding and unique dermal filler that offers excellent results for the right patient. In just a few quick treatment sessions, you can achieve a more youthful look that will last for one to two years. To find out if Sculptra is the right option for you, contact Acqua Medspa today at 281-480-1200.