Sculptra®
How It Works
Sculptra® is an advanced injectable treatment that works by stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production. Its key ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), is injected beneath the skin where it gradually encourages the body to rebuild lost collagen.
Collagen is a vital protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s strength, structure and elasticity. As collagen is restored, the skin slowly regains firmness and volume while improving overall texture and radiance.
Unlike traditional fillers that provide instant volume, Sculptra® works progressively by strengthening the skin from within. Results develop gradually over several weeks as new collagen forms, creating natural-looking rejuvenation that can last two years or longer.
Sculptra® has been used internationally since 1999, and the active ingredient, PLLA, has a long history of safe medical use, including in dissolvable surgical sutures.
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Sculptra® treatments are tailored to each individual depending on the level of collagen loss and desired outcome.
Most patients require two to three treatment sessions, spaced approximately 4–6 weeks apart. In cases of more significant volume loss, additional sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal results.
The procedure itself typically takes 20–30 minutes and is performed using a cannula (a blunt-tipped needle) to help minimise discomfort and bruising.
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Prior to treatment, a consultation will be carried out to assess your skin, discuss your goals and
determine whether Sculptra® is suitable for you.
You may be advised to avoid certain medications or supplements that can increase bruising in the days leading up to treatment. Arriving with clean skin and avoiding alcohol before your appointment is also recommended.
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After your Sculptra® treatment it is important to massage the treated areas five times a day for five minutes, for five days. This helps distribute the product evenly beneath the skin.
Some mild swelling, tenderness or bruising may occur but these effects are usually temporary and settle within a few days.
You can typically return to most normal daily activities immediately after treatment.
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Sculptra® delivers results that appear gradually and beautifully natural. Immediately after treatment you may notice some temporary fullness from the fluid used during the injections, however this settles within a few days as it is absorbed by the body.
Over the following 6–12 weeks, Sculptra® begins to stimulate your body’s natural collagen production. As new collagen forms, the skin slowly becomes firmer, smoother and more resilient, with improvements in both volume and overall skin quality.
Rather than creating an obvious or artificial change, Sculptra® works beneath the surface to restore the skin’s natural structure. The result is healthier, stronger and more radiant skin that still looks completely like you, just refreshed.
Because the treatment encourages your own collagen to rebuild, results are long-lasting, typically remaining visible for up to two years or longer.
Sculptra® can be used to improve:
Facial volume loss
Sunken cheeks and temples
Wrinkles and folds
Under-eye hollowing
Nasolabial folds
Skin texture and skin quality
Neck and hand rejuvenation
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As with any injectable treatment, some temporary side effects may occur. These can include:
Mild swelling
Tenderness
Bruising
Redness at the injection site
These effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days.
Rarely, small lumps or nodules may develop under the skin if the product is not evenly distributed.
Following the recommended massage after treatment helps reduce this risk.
Your practitioner will discuss all potential risks and complications during your consultation.
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Sculptra® is priced per vial at $800.

