Injectable Collagen for Aesthetic Results
Sculptra® Scottsdale, Arizona
As skin’s natural collagen dissipates over time, wrinkles can result. A variety of injectable treatments now exist, designed to restore skin’s volume while reducing the appearance of fine lines and facial folds. To learn more about restoring collagen with injectable Sculptra® Aesthetic, contact Dr. Pamela Henderson in Scottsdale, Arizona today.
What Is Sculptra® Aesthetic Made From?
Sculptra® Aesthetic is a biocompatible, biodegradable material composed of small particles of poly-L-lactic acid, carboxymethylcellulose and mannitol, hydrated to a suspension with sterile water. As the product degrades, new collagen is stimulated which results in gradual improvement. Although there may be some initial appearance of fullness, this is temporary due to swelling and the saline used to dilute the product.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Sculptra® Aesthetic injections are performed as a minor, non-surgical procedure in Dr. Henderson’s office examination room. Depending on the injection site, topical anesthetics or ice packs can be used to reduce discomfort. Because Sculptra® Aesthetic can be mixed with lidocaine prior to injection most patients do not require any other pain reduction measures. The procedure can take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the areas involved and the number of bottles injected. Most patients use one to two bottles per session, with the average patient requiring at least two sessions spaced at least a few weeks apart to achieve the final result. Patients with more severe volume deficiencies require up to four treatments.
What Areas Can Be Treated with Sculptra® Aesthetic?
The FDA approved indication includes treating the nasolabial folds (the folds between the nose and mouth) using a deep dermal grid pattern (cross-hatch) technique. Off-label treatments can also be performed in other areas of the face including the temples, jaw line, pre-jowl regions, mid-face, lateral cheeks and jaw line, and the lateral chin regions in the areas of the marionette folds (the creases extending below the corners of the mouth). The injections are performed into a deeper level over the mid-face, temple, pre-jowl and chin regions with more superficial injections performed along the jaw line and in the areas of the cheeks in front of the ears. The areas are then massaged to evenly distribute the product.
How Long Do the Results Last?
Although outcomes vary by individual, patients receiving Sculptra® Aesthetic injections at Dr. Henderson’s Scottsdale, Arizona practice have experienced results lasting up to 25 months after the final injection.
What Are the Risks?
Although uncommon, risks associated with the use of Sculptra® Aesthetic may include bruising, swelling, redness, pain/tenderness, nodules, firmness, itching, infection, hypersensitivity reactions and discoloration. To decrease risk of bruising, discontinuing substances that can prolong bleeding such as aspirin products and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) may be desirable.
Is a Skin Test Required?
No skin test is required in immunocompetent individuals with skin that heals normally.
Are There Any Contraindications?
Sculptra® Aesthetic injections should not be performed in areas of acute infection or inflammation. Sculptra® Aesthetic is not for people with hypersensitivity to any of the components. Safety during pregnancy and breast-feeding, or for use in patients with a history of abnormal scarring, has not been established. Additional contraindications may exist and are discussed with Dr. Henderson during the consultation.
Is There Anything I Should or Shouldn’t Do After the Treatment?
After receiving Sculptra® Aesthetic injections, an ice pack may be used to reduce bruising and swelling for approximately 24 hours. Excessive exposure to sun and heat should be avoided for a minimum of 24 hours. Patients are advised to massage the areas for five minutes, five times per day for five days.
Learn More about Sculptra® Aesthetic
Contact Dr. Pamela Henderson today, and schedule an appointment to discuss Sculptra® Aesthetic at her Scottsdale, Arizona office.