New to the San Francisco Bay Area: The Sculptra™ Injectable
Click her for images

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.