Sculptra is not a filler: it is a biostimulator based on poly-L-lactic acid, which restarts your skin's own collagen production. It therefore gives no immediate result, but a firming that builds up over several weeks, after generally two or three sessions. In Marrakech, Dr Sara Zahid uses it for faces that hollow and slacken with age, or for the skin quality of the neck and décolleté, in a personalised protocol with measured doses. It combines well with Botox and filler.
Microparticles of poly-L-lactic acid, a resorbable substance that has long been used in medicine, are injected into the deep dermis. They trigger a gentle reaction in the body, which makes collagen around them. The particles disappear; the collagen stays. This explains the delay before the result and its often long duration.
Sculptra suits cheeks that sag, temples that hollow, a jawline that slackens, and skin that is losing density, including on the neck and décolleté. It is less suited to very mobile areas such as the lips or around the eyes, where other products are preferred. On a face that is still full, other skin quality treatments are more useful.
Generally two to three sessions are needed, a few weeks apart, to let collagen form between each pass. The result is seen two to three months after the last session and often lasts a long time, with variations from person to person. The dermatologist decides the areas, volumes and rhythm after an examination.
The injection is done with a needle or cannula, at several points, with an anaesthetic cream. Expect slight swelling and sometimes bruises for a few days. Massage of the treated areas is recommended in the following days, according to the instructions given at the end of the session, to spread the product evenly.
Nodules under the skin can appear, rarely, especially if massage is not done or if the product is poorly distributed; they can be treated. Sculptra differs from hyaluronic acid filler: it cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase. It is avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in case of skin infection or a tendency to keloid scars.
No. The effect builds up over several weeks, as collagen is made. Slight initial swelling disappears within a few days.
Generally two to three, a few weeks apart. The exact number depends on the area and the goal.
No. They are two approaches: gradual biostimulation for Sculptra, more immediate filling for filler. They are sometimes complementary.
Often a long time, with differences from person to person. Maintenance can be offered.
No, unlike hyaluronic acid: hence the importance of cautious dosing and careful massage.
No, as a precaution: Sculptra is postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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