sculptra

Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler that restores volume by stimulating the body’s own production of collagen. So, if you are looking for a minimally invasive treatment that plumps, firms and smooths, look no further! Dr. Michael Yoo is pleased to introduce Sculptra, an injectable treatment that refreshes and minimizes signs of aging in the face, hands, and more. This innovative treatment works to subtlely reduce wrinkles over time and add fullness. Patients will enjoy a fuller, more youthful-looking contours that last up to 2 years. If you’d like to learn more about this exiting new addition to injectables, call Dr. Yoo’s offices in Newport Beach at (949) 861-3340. Schedule an appointment for a personal consultation and find out what Sculptra can do for you!

About

Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a safe, biodegradable substance that made its debut in the United States in 2004. Sculptra was originally FDA approved for use as a dermal filler to help HIV patients who’s facial fat atrophied as a side effect of their medication, making them look heartbreakingly gaunt.[1] Sculptra has been effectively used in various medical treatments and for reconstructive purposes since then, and as this groundbreaking technology has evolved, it has emerged as a safe and effective treatment for even mild facial wrinkles and volume loss.[2] 

How PLLA Works

The active ingredients in Sculptra contain PLLA, which triggers gradual collagen production in the body when injected. This subtle response provides long-lasting, deep skin support. Patients will notice reduced wrinkles and a smoother, more contoured appearance on the face as well as a stronger, firmer skin texture. Because the results from Sculptra appear over time, patients can look forward to subtle, ongoing improvements. That means that no one will be able to guess your secret; you can just expect compliments!

Where Can Sculptra be Used?

Sculptra is a versatile dermal filler that is a popular way to add volume to the face. Patients can accentuate their cheeks for an instant lift and a more youthful appearance. However, Sculptra can also be used as an alternative to facial implants and other facial surgical procedures. It can be injected to achieve a more prominent chin, increase the projection of the tip of the nose, and to reduce the appearance of a dorsal hump. For patients are are unsatisfied with the results of a rhinoplasty, or nose job, Sculptra can be used to give smoother contours to the nose. But Sculptra isn’t just for the face! Our hands also show significant signs of aging as the years pass, and injections of Sculptra can mask the veins, tendons, and bony appearance on the back of the hands. For patients frustrated with cellulite dimples or who want to accentuate their butt, Sculptra can even be injected to smooth and volumize the buttocks!

Benefits

In addition to enhanced volume, strength, and reduced wrinkles, patients will also enjoy a more radiant complexion thanks to increased collagen production. As Sculptra works to gradually improve the visible appearance of facial skin, it also works behind the scenes to increase the strength of your skin by providing deep-tissue support. Sculptra eliminates wrinkles and hollowness around the eyes, temples, cheeks, and jawline. This quick and easy procedure can easily fit into your schedule, and carries an extremely low risk of an adverse reaction due to the biodegradable composition of the ingredients used, with long-lasting results that provide benefits for up to 2 years!

Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate for Sculptra if you have any of the following signs of aging:

  • Sharp angles and hollowness in the temples
  • Lack of definition and volume in the cheeks and jaw
  • A sunken appearance in tear ducts and under-eye area 
  • Wrinkles and fine lines around the nose
  • Jowls 

If you are a healthy adult who wants to begin treatments and start transforming back to a more youthful version of yourself, contact Dr. Yoo today online or by calling (949) 861-3340 to schedule a personal consultation to determine if Sculptra is the right choice for you. 

Personal Consultation

Dr. Yoo is double-board certified and works tirelessly to perfect his craft, staying on top of all of the latest technologies and developments to provide patients with the best possible results. During your personal consultation with Dr. Yoo, he will discuss your goals and needs as well as assess your facial structure and provide you with a comprehensive list of treatment options and costs. Dr. Yoo is proud to offer virtual consultations as well as two convenient locations in Southern California, in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills.

Preparation

Dr. Yoo and his entire team strive to make your entire experience with us as simple and stress-free as possible. There is very little you will need to do to prepare for your Sculptra treatments, and Dr. Yoo will provide you with any specific instructions you may need to follow. Generally, patients are asked to come with a clean, makeup-free face and avoid taking any medications that can increase skin irritation, swelling, or bruising.

Procedure

Sculptra is typically administered in 2-4 injections spaced 3-6 weeks apart. This simple, minimally-invasive procedure is usually over within an hour and includes just a few brief steps:

  1. Before we begin your treatment, you will receive topical anesthesia on your previously determined target areas to minimize any discomfort.
  2. Next, a delicate needle will inject Sculptra into the deep tissue areas beneath your skin. 
  3. Finally, the treatment areas will be gently massaged to ensure the solution is evenly spread throughout the skin.  

Recovery

There is little to no recovery time after a Sculptra treatment, and you will be able to resume your normal activities immediately. However, it is strongly recommended that you avoid strenuous activity and limit your time in the sun for the first 24 hours after your injections. It is normal to experience minimal stinging, swelling, or bruising in your treatment areas that will diminish within 1-2 days. Applying ice to any area of discomfort will help ease the pain and you may also take over-the-counter pain relief medication. You can also alleviate any discomfort by massaging the target areas multiple times a day during the first week after your injections. Don’t hesitate to contact our office at (949) 861-3340 if you have any questions at all during your brief recovery process.

Results

Smoother, stronger, and more youthful-looking skin will begin to appear in the weeks following your Sculptra treatment! Patients enjoy radiant and refreshed skin free from wrinkles and fine lines. But don’t just take our word for it, visit our reviews page to see what other satisfied patients have to say! And don’t forget to keep up with us on social media to share your amazing results on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube!

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures 

No one says you have to grow old gracefully, and Dr. Yoo and his team are proud to offer multiple procedures to help transform you into the best version of you! Depending on your individual needs and goals, you may be interested in other non-surgical procedures. Many patients choose to enhance their lips with lip fillers and injections, and a non-surgical nose job is a great way to update your look without the hassle and pain of traditional facial surgery. 

Cost

Each patient’s Sculptra treatment plan will be as unique as their facial features, or other areas that they wish to treat. Costs will vary depending on your goals, the number of syringes of Scuptra required to achieve those goals, and any additional corresponding and complementary procedures you may choose. Dr. Yoo is excited to offer financing options and specials. The best way to determine your choices is to contact our office today online or at (949) 861-3340 to schedule a personal or virtual consultation with Dr. Yoo. 

FAQ

How long does Sculptra last?

With a proper skincare routine, the benefits of Sculptra are designed to be long-lasting, for 2 years or more!

When will I begin to see results?

Because Sculptra works to trigger natural collagen production deep within your skin, results develop gradually and progressively over the first 2-3 weeks after your first treatment. You will be delighted and dazzled by your skin’s appearance as it continues to improve over time.

Are the ingredients in Sculptra safe?

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), the active ingredient in Sculptra that works to remove wrinkles and restore volume, is a safe and biodegradable gel with minimal adverse reaction risk. PLLA is FDA-approved and has been used effectively in both medical and cosmetic treatments dating back to 1999.[2]

Can Sculptra treatments be reversed?

In some rare cases where a reversal is necessary, Dr. Yoo will consult with you to provide options for the best possible outcomes.

References

  1. Sickles, C. K., Nassereddin, A., & Gross, G. P. (2021). Poly-L-Lactic Acid. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507871/
  2. Fitzgerald, R., Bass, L. M., Goldberg, D. J., Graivier, M. H., & Lorenc, Z. P. (2018). Physiochemical Characteristics of Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA). Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(suppl_1), S13–S17. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjy012