Sculptra and traditional hyaluronic acid fillers are safe, well-tested medications that can help rejuvenate your appearance.
When comparing Sculptra to traditional fillers, it helps to understand that the injections take two different approaches to boosting skin volume. This blog will explain the differences between Sculptra and conventional hyaluronic acid fillers.
How Conventional Fillers Work
As people age, their skin loses volume due to decreased hyaluronic acid and collagen production. Standard fillers involve injecting hyaluronic acid into the skin, plumping affected areas, and reducing the look of wrinkles and lines. The results are visible immediately and last for several months. Since hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in healthy skin, the risk of side effects remains low.
Applications of Traditional Fillers
- Wrinkles
- Lips
- Fine lines around the mouth
- Under-eye areas
- Cheeks that have lost volume
- Nasolabial folds
How Sculptra Works
Sculptra takes an entirely different approach to boosting skin volume. This medication contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). PLLA stimulates the body’s natural collagen production.
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra does not provide immediate results. The medication gradually takes effect over several months, creating a natural appearance lasting about two years.
Uses of Sculptra
- Corrects wrinkles and fine lines
- Plumps thin lips with a natural look
- Provides volume in bony facial areas like the cheekbones
- Plumps hollow cheeks and other regions in the face
Sculptra’s Advantages
Provides Slower Results
When patients receive hyaluronic acid treatments, the results may be immediately noticeable. While hyaluronic acid fillers create a natural and subtle look when a skilled professional applies them, many patients prefer Sculptra because the results take shape over time. Friends and family may not be able to put their finger on how your appearance has changed, but they will notice a brighter, more youthful look.
Lasts Longer
Sculptra lasts up to two years, significantly longer than conventional hyaluronic acid fillers that only last about six to 12 months.
Provides Structural Change in the Skin
Fillers effectively plump the skin, but they do not change its properties. Sculptra encourages the body to produce collagen, creating a more natural look.
Can Be Combined with Traditional Fillers
Many patients choose to combine Sculptra and fillers. Combining these treatments allows you to take advantage of many benefits, like longer-lasting results, enhanced volume restoration, and shorter recovery times.
Who is a Good Candidate for Sculptra?
Patients who want subtle, natural, and gradual results may be great candidates for this treatment. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not get Sculptra. Patients with keloid scarring may not be good candidates. If you have skin outbreaks, redness, or rashes, wait until they have cleared, and if you have any infections, consult a medical professional.
esthetic medspa Portland provides comprehensive medical aesthetics treatments in Maine, including injectable fillers, laser treatments, diamondglow, peels,dermaplaning, microneedling, facials, and microdermabrasion. We offer concierge-style service in a high-end environment. Call our Portland, ME office today at 207-618-5792 with questions or to make an appointment.