Sculptra
Sculptra is an injectable product that restores and corrects the signs of facial fat loss by replacing lost volume. Sculptra provides an increase in skin thickness, helping to create a more natural facial appearance. Sculptra is not made from human or animal sources and does not require a skin test. Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic material. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biocompatible (does not harm the body), biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body) material that has been widely used for many years in surgical products. The effects are long-lasting; they were shown in a clinical study to last for up to 2 years after the first treatment session.
Q. Are the results from Sculptra immediate?
A. No. At your first treatment visit, it may appear that Sculptra worked immediately because of swelling from the injections and the water used to dilute Sculptra. In a few days, when the swelling goes down and the water is absorbed by your body, you may look as you did before your treatment. Sculptra takes time to gradually correct the depression in your skin. Dr. Ali will see you again in a few weeks to decide if you need more Sculptra injections.
Q. How long do treatment results last?
A. Treatment results will differ for each person. In a clinical study, the treatment results lasted for up to 2 years after the first treatment session, in most patients. Touch-up treatments may be needed to maintain the desired effect.
Q. How many treatments are required?
A. Dr. Ali will decide the appropriate number of treatment sessions and the amount of Sculptra you will need at each session, during your Sculptra consultation.
Q. Do injections of Sculptra hurt?
A. As with any injection, injections with Sculptra may hurt. Sculptra is injected in small amounts using a very fine needle. Dr. Ali uses a local anesthetic to help alleviate any discomfort during treatment.
Q. What should I do prior to treatment?
A. Sculptra requires no pretesting, but you should take a few precautions before being treated. Avoid using aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, St. John's Wort, or high doses of Vitamin E supplements prior to treatment, because these may increase bruising or bleeding at the injection site. Also, if you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, discuss this with Dr. Ali, she can prescribe medication to minimize a recurrence.
Q. What can I expect to happen at a treatment session?
A. Sculptra will be injected in small amounts into the skin using a very fine needle. Multiple injections will be needed. An ice pack will be applied to the treatment area to help reduce swelling. After the treatment session, the area will be thoroughly massaged to distribute the product evenly.
Q. What can I expect after treatment?
A. Immediately following a treatment session redness, swelling, pain, bruising or all of these signs can happen in the treatment area. These signs usually go away in a few hours to a few days. You will be given specific aftercare instructions at the time of your appointment.
Q. What are the possible side effects of treatment with Sculptra?
A. The most common side effects with the use of Sculptra include injection-related side effects at the site of the injection such as bleeding, tenderness or pain, redness, bruising, or swelling. One possible delayed side effect with Sculptra can be small bumps under the skin in the treated area. These small bumps may not be visible, and you may notice them only when you press on the treated skin. These bumps tend to happen within the first 6 to 12 months after the first treatment. Occasionally, these bumps go away on their own. Visible bumps, sometimes with redness or color change to the treated area, have also been reported. As with all procedures that involve an injection through the skin, there is a risk of infection.
WellMedica
1801 Robert Fulton Drive
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Reston, VA 20191
