Dr Teri Johnson performs all the Sculptra Treatments Cheshire Lasers Clinic
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a facial treatment that gives you deep tissue regeneration to help reduce the signs of ageing in your face. Unlike traditional Dermal Fillers, Sculptra works to replace lost collagen and replenish volume in your face more subtly over time, giving you a more natural looking appearance.
Sculptra is one of Dr Teri Johnson’s favourite treatments, in fact she has Sculptra herself. She trained in this procedure in 2008 and has attended regular update courses since then to improve her techniques and make sure she is up to date with current practice. Dr Teri follows the latest recommendations for preparing and administering the treatment, she uses a cannula to inject the product most of the time but sometimes she still uses needles.
On average Dr Teri performs around 5 Sculptra treatments a week at Cheshire Laser.
Sculptra was previously known as New-Fill and was launched in the U.K. in the year 2000. It was rebranded under the new name Sculptra in 2004 and is growing in popularity in the U.K. and Europe.
Sanofi Aventis used to distribute Sculptra however Sinclair took over its distribution a few years ago.
The advantage of Sculptra is that larger areas can be treated with a longer lasting result.
What is Sculptra made from?
Sculptra is made from Poly-L-lactic acid a synthetic polymer manufactured from lactic acid it does not require a skin test.
ThePoly-L-lactic acid is completely broken down within the skin over a period of months, however the results (new collagen growth) can last for up to 3 to 4 years.
Sculptra can be used for:
- Replacing lost volume caused by ageing
- Smooth lines and wrinkles in the cheeks and chin
- Deep folds and wrinkles
- Volume defects e.g. sunken cheeks and temples
- Contour enhancement
- Improving skin texture
How does Sculptra work?
The Poly-L-lactic acid in Sculptra stimulates collagen production in the areas it is injected to replace lost collagen and replenish volume in your face. The results develop slowly over time, giving you a natural looking appearance.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required to achieve the desired affect depends on your age and how well you make collagen due the the product.
It also depends on how deep your wrinkles are as well as the amount of volume, lift and contouring you desire.
For optimal results 2-4 treatments are usually required using between 2 and 6 vials of Sculptra. Treatments can be every 6 weeks, however they can be spaced every 3-6 months if you are not in a rush to see the end results.
How long does Sculptra last?
In contrast to some other treatments that require frequent refresher sessions, clinical trials indicate that Sculptra is effective for up to three years and in some cases longer, most people find the results last around two or more years.
During a Sculptra Treatment:
Dr Teri will make sure your face is thoroughly cleansed.
She will then apply a cream to numb the skin.
Photos will be taken of your face, and you will be examined to decide which areas need treatment.
The treatment itself will take about 30 minutes, and Dr Teri will use either a cannula, a needle or both depending on your needs.
Dr Teri will then massage your face and advise you about aftercare.
After Sculptra Treatment:
Massage is very important after Sculptra treatments and should be performed for 5 minutes, 5 times a day over the first 5 days.
After this, massage twice daily for 5 minutes for 6 weeks.
Massage is very important after Sculptra treatment it ensures the even distribution of the product in the tissue and makes sure collagen production occurs evenly and not in clumps.
After treatment, you should notice gradual results over the next several weeks. In general, it takes approximately six weeks to see some effects and the effects continue to develop up yo a year after treatment, sometimes even longer.
Side Effects:
Common effects at the site of injection include:
- Bleeding
- Tenderness
- Mild Discomfort
- Redness
- Bruising
- Swelling
These side effects generally resolve in 2-6 days.
More rare side effects include:
Nodule formation (small bumps) after injection. This is very rare and can be caused by too much product being injected or lack of massage. These small bumps may not be visible, and you may notice them only when you press in the treated skin. These bumps tend to happen within the first 6 to 12 months after the first treatment. Typically resolution is spontaneous, over a period of months. Massaging regularly after treatment reduces the risk of nodules.
Tissue infection/abscess is very rare and can be treated with antibiotics.
Granuloma (tissue nodules) are very rare and can be treated with injection of steroid into the affected area.
Hypersensitivity/allergy is very very rare and can be treated with antihistamines.
View Dr Teri’s Prices for Sculptra at Cheshire Lasers here:
Check out this video about Sculptra:
