As we get older we tend to lose fat in our face. This causes a sunken and sometimes depressed look. A new filler called Sculptra can help with this problem. It helps to restore lost facial volume and will give your face a natural facelift.
What is Sculptra exactly?
Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid (a type of Alpha-hydroxyacid) that is injected into the skin. It is an FDA approved injectable filler that stimulates the build up of the body’s own collagen. This will lead to a reduction of lines and wrinkles, add more volume to the face and give an overall more youthful look. It is most commonly used to:
- Naturally volumize hollow or flattened cheeks
- Better define the jawline
- Fill hollow temples
- Firm up the “depressed” chin,
- Soften nasolabial and marionette folds
- Achieve a natural facelift
How is Sculptra different from other fillers?
There are 2 major differences: Sculptra will stimulate YOUR OWN facial collagen production and therefore will increase dermal thickness and firm up your skin naturally and it lasts longer than conventional cosmetic fillers (up to 2 years).
Who can use Sculptra?
Sculptra is suitable for all women and men who need more facial volume and / or a natural facelift. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women or those with bleeding disorders or who are on blood thinning drugs.
Are there any risks of complications or side effects?
Some immediate side effects may include bruising, skin redness and swelling which disappear within 2 to 6 days. Medium to long term side effects include small lumps. These tend to resolve spontaneously with minimal intervention. They tend not to occur if proper dilution and injection techniques are observed. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within 24-48 hours. The immediate volume effect is related to the volume of water injected and this disappears within 72 hours.
What are the results like?
You will see the effects of the treatment approximately 4 weeks after the procedure with full results clearly visible after 3 months. You feel an increase in skin thickness, have softer and smoother facial contours, and have more facial volume. Results last as long as 2 years.
Is it painful and how many treatments do I need to get desired results?
Most people find it very tolerable and rate the experience better than expected. The eventual satisfaction rate is very high due to the natural improvement of the facial appearance. You may need from 2-4 treatments depending on the amount of facial volume you want to add.
Article written by Dr Isabelle Yeoh from IYAC Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Clinic at Camden Medical Centre in Singapore. This aesthetic clinic provides aesthetic & anti-aging treatments like laser hair removal, botox, IPL and laser skin treatments, hormone balancing and weight control.
