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New to the San Francisco Bay Area: The Sculptra™ Injectable
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What is Sculptra™?
Sculptra™ is a synthetic injectable material known as
"poly-L-lactic acid." Poly-L-lactic acid is biocompatible
(a material that does not harm the body) and biodegradable
(able to be broken down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has
been widely used for many years in dissolvable stitches, soft
tissue implants, and other types of implants.
How does Sculptra™ work?
Sculptra™ is injected below the surface of the skin
in the area of lipoatrophy (fat loss), providing a gradual
increase in skin thickness. Visible results appear within
the first few treatment sessions.
Do I need a skin test before being treated with Sculptra™?
No skin testing is required prior to the injection.
Are the results from Sculptra™ immediate?
The Sculptra™ injection takes time to gradually correct
the depression in your skin. Dr. Rajagopal will see you again
in a few weeks to evaluate the results. Some patients may
require a touch up injection.
How many treatments are required?
Dr. Rajagopal will decide the appropriate number of treatment
sessions and the amount of Sculptra™ you will need at
each session. Patients with severe facial fat loss may require
3 to 6 treatment sessions.
How long do treatment results last?
The effects of Sculptra™ are enduring. In a clinical
study, effects lasted for up to 2 years after the first treatment
session in most patients.
Do injections of Sculptra™ hurt?
As with any injection, injections with Sculptra™ may
hurt. However, Sculptra™ is injected in small amounts
using a very fine needle. Dr. Rajagopal may apply a topical
or local anesthetic.
What can I expect after treatment?
Immediately following a treatment session with Sculptra™,
some redness, swelling, pain, bruising or all of these signs
can happen in the treatment area. These signs usually go away
in a few hours to a few days. Dr. Rajagopal will give you
specific post-treatment care instructions. Most patients feel
comfortable going back to their normal activities following
treatment.
What are the possible side effects of treatment with
Sculptra™?
The most common side effects with the use of Sculptra™
include injection-related side effects at the site of the
injection such as bleeding, tenderness or pain, redness, bruising,
or swelling. These side effects generally subside within a
few days.
If you have any questions regarding the Sculptra™ Injection,
or lipoatrophy, or wish to schedule a consultation, please
call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery
& Laser Center at 415-392-3333.
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