Michele S. Green M.D., FAAD., is a Board-Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist, Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and has been an international leader in cosmetic dermatology for over 25 years. Upper East Side patients and those around the globe flock to her practice for cosmetic dermatology treatment. A graduate from Yale University, with an MD and Chief residency from The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in NYC, Dr. Green treats some of the most discerning, demanding women and men in the world, with issues ranging from premature skin aging to hyperpigmentation, rosacea, wrinkles, acne, skin laxity, hair loss, and sun damage.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Michele GreenAs we journey through the aging process, our facial characteristics undergo transformations marked by a reduction in volume and the emergence of a lax texture, both of which contribute to the development of wrinkles. This loss of skin firmness can be primarily attributed to the diminishing production of natural collagen in our bodies as we age. Collagen plays a pivotal role in establishing the foundational structure of our skin. 

As these telltale signs of aging become more pronounced, individuals might experience a decrease in self-confidence due to the loss of volume, increased skin laxity, and the heightened visibility of facial wrinkles. Thankfully, the realm of cosmetic enhancements has witnessed remarkable advancements, particularly in the domain of dermal fillers such as Sculptra. These innovations now provide the opportunity for facial rejuvenation without the need for surgical interventions.

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is an advanced dermal filler renowned for its capacity to deliver extended and authentic outcomes. It is an injectable liquid filler with a distinctive quality – the ability to prompt the generation of fresh collagen while addressing the depletion of facial volume. Recognized as an FDA-approved injectable collagen stimulant, Sculptra is formulated using poly-L-lactic acid. This innovative compound contributes to the revitalization of the skin by encouraging the natural production of collagen, ultimately fostering a more youthful and vibrant appearance.

How does Sculptra work?

Sculptra distinguishes itself from other cosmetic injectables by virtue of its unique active component, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). This remarkable substance plays a crucial role in invigorating the body’s innate collagen production while also fostering the creation of fresh collagen within the skin. Through this dual action of collagen enhancement and volume restoration, Sculptra effectively addresses both volume loss and lipoatrophy – a condition marked by localized fat tissue loss. This restorative process extends beyond the face, as Sculptra can be employed to replenish volume in various body areas like the buttocks and hips, yielding impressive body contouring results.

The emergence of new collagen, catalyzed by Sculptra, leads to the disappearance of wrinkles, replenishment of lost volume, and the realization of remarkable body sculpting effects. The transformation following each Sculptra treatment becomes evident within 4 to 6 weeks, and the treatment regimen typically involves three to four sessions spaced approximately a month apart, depending on the specific treatment area. Over the span of around four to six months of consistent treatment, the comprehensive cosmetic results of Sculptra injections become fully apparent.

Which areas of the face can be treated with Sculptra?

Sculptra presents a versatile solution for facial enhancement, enabling a comprehensive non-surgical facelift by targeting various facial regions and lines. Commonly, Sculptra is administered into profound facial lines such as the nasolabial folds, marionette lines (smile lines), temples, and the chin area. A particularly popular application is its use as a cheek filler in the mid-face region. Through a series of treatments, the production of new collagen accentuates and defines cheekbones, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

It’s important to note that Sculptra is contraindicated for use in the under-eye area and the lips. This is due to Sculptra’s intended deep injection method, which is not suited for superficial facial areas or mucous membranes such as those found around the eyes and lips.

What does Sculptra do to your cheeks?

Sculptra is an injectable treatment that was recently FDA-approved to treat fine lines and wrinkles in the cheeks. The poly-L-lactic acid-based solution is injected into the treatment area via an ultra-fine needle to fill in wrinkles and boost collagen production at the treatment site. As we age, collagen and elastin production decreases, which means there is less structural support for the skin and tissue, leading to sagging skin and the development of deep wrinkles. Sculptra combats the natural aging process by stimulating the increased production of collagen, which helps restore tissue volume and structure. Sculptra can be injected into the cheeks to contour the area, replace lost volume, and fill in fine lines and wrinkles.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Michele Green

How long does Sculptra last in the cheek?

Patients frequently inquire about the duration of Sculptra’s effectiveness in the cheeks, and the response is notable: it can last for up to two years, rendering it one of the most enduring dermal fillers accessible in the market. In comparison, the majority of other dermal fillers, such as those containing hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxyapatite, tend to provide results that endure from six to eighteen months. This sets Sculptra apart, offering the advantage of sustained treatment outcomes over a span of up to two years.

As the effects of the treatment gradually wane, patients have the option to revisit Dr. Green’s office to receive additional filler injections, ensuring the maintenance of their desired treatment results. This flexibility and prolonged efficacy make Sculptra an appealing choice for those seeking enduring facial rejuvenation.

Can Sculptra be used as an injectable treatment on the face?

Sculptra stands as an exceptional option among dermal fillers for achieving a “liquid facelift,” as it demonstrates remarkable versatility across nearly all facial regions. Patients frequently turn to Sculptra to minimize the appearance of facial lines, wrinkles, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and even employ it in the temples and along the jawline to enhance overall facial contouring. The mid-face is particularly popular for Sculptra injections, effectively serving as a cheek filler to accentuate and define cheekbones. Additionally, Sculptra can be applied to the chin, chin wrinkles, jowls, and neck. By adhering to a Sculptra treatment regimen, patients can amplify collagen production in the mid-face, resulting in the enhancement of cheekbones or overall cheek volume. It is important to note that Sculptra is not suitable for injection directly under the eyes or in the lips, as it’s specifically designed for deep injection and not intended for superficial facial areas or mucous membranes.

What transformative effects does Sculptra have on your face?

Engaging in a series of Sculptra treatments ushers in a comprehensive rejuvenation of the facial appearance. Sculptra not only restores volume within the skin but also ignites the body’s collagen production by stimulating the breakdown of the injected substance. This synergistic action engenders enduring results. Sculptra’s distinctive nature lies in its ability to not only alleviate fine lines and wrinkles upon initial injection but also enhance skin firmness and overall quality over time. The natural progression of several months sees the emergence of a beautifully natural and youthful appearance.

Does Sculptra provide facial lifting effects?

Many individuals commonly refer to Sculptra treatments on the face as a “liquid facelift” due to its capacity to restore volume, consequently diminishing wrinkles and sagging skin. This holds particular appeal for those interested in rejuvenating their cheeks or jawline, as Sculptra capitalizes on the body’s intrinsic collagen reserves to reinvigorate volume and enhance skin elasticity. Moreover, Sculptra can seamlessly complement other facial rejuvenation techniques and skincare procedures, such as Botox for targeting dynamic wrinkles, Thermage FLX for skin tightening, and Fraxel laser skin resurfacing. When collaborating with Dr. Green, she will curate a personalized treatment strategy that empowers you to radiate your best self.

Can Sculptra be used on the neck?

Sculptra presents an ideal solution for neck rejuvenation when patients inquire about its applicability in this area. It effectively addresses volume loss, deep wrinkles, and fine lines on the neck that are often linked to aging or weight loss. By employing this liquid filler, the telltale crepey appearance associated with the natural aging process of the neck can be reversed. Collagen depletion often contributes to increased skin laxity and a sunken appearance in both the neck and décolletage. Sculptra emerges as a secure, efficacious, and enduring option for restoring lost volume, thereby yielding a smoother and more youthful neck appearance.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Michele Green

How does Sculptra work on the neck?

Sculptra distinguishes itself from commonplace dermal fillers due to its unique composition. In contrast to hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm and Restylane, Sculptra relies on poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). PLLA boasts distinct neo-collagenesis properties, effectively spurring the body’s collagen production. Upon injection of the liquid Sculptra filler into the treatment site, the PLLA solution prompts an inflammatory reaction in the body, consequently instigating collagen production. Collagen, a fundamental skin-supporting protein, tends to diminish with age, leading to volume loss in various body regions, including the neck and face.

Through the Sculptra injectable treatment, the ensuing production of new collagen progressively replenishes lost volume within the treatment area. The key distinction lies in Sculptra’s ability to stimulate the body’s own collagen production response, thereby allowing the results to manifest gradually. Despite this time-intensive process, the outcomes are remarkably long-lasting due to the inherent nature of collagen production. This means that the effects of Sculptra can persist for up to two years, offering enduring benefits for those seeking neck rejuvenation.

What is a Sculptra Butt Lift?

The Sculptra Butt Lift offers a nonsurgical alternative for individuals desiring buttock augmentation, commonly known as the Brazilian butt lift, without the need for invasive plastic surgery or an extensive recovery period. This procedure is particularly suitable for those lacking sufficient excess fat in other body areas, which is necessary for a traditional surgical Brazilian butt lift that involves fat transfer. Sculptra Butt Lift can also encompass Sculptra injections to address hip dips, aiming to achieve an hourglass figure. The outcomes of Sculptra injections manifest gradually and subtly, as the process of developing healthy tissue and collagen takes several weeks.

While the effects of a Sculptra butt lift are enduring, they are not permanent. Following Sculptra injections, patients can resume their daily activities, including work, provided they diligently perform massages to the treatment area. These massages should be performed five times a day for five minutes each, spanning a period of five days.

Is Sculptra a Better Option Compared to a BBL?

Sculptra butt lift injections and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery each offer distinct approaches, and neither can be unequivocally labeled as “better” than the other. The Brazilian Butt Lift is a surgical intervention carried out by a plastic surgeon, involving liposuction to extract fat from other body regions like the abdomen and thighs, which is then transplanted to the buttocks. Liposuction entails the removal of fat through a cannula. Conversely, a Sculptra butt lift might be recommended when a patient lacks sufficient fat for a viable transfer. Individuals aiming for more pronounced volume might lean towards a conventional surgical butt lift. The choice between these options largely depends on the desired degree of enhancement and the patient’s individual circumstances.

What is involved in Sculptra aftercare?

Sculptra Aesthetic is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure designed to address volume loss, and it includes minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their regular activities immediately after treatment. Following the Sculptra injections, Dr. Green may opt to apply an ice pack to the injection sites, effectively minimizing the potential for bruising or swelling. In case any swelling or redness does manifest after the injections, Dr. Green advises refraining from direct sun exposure or using tanning beds until the swelling subsides.

For optimal post-treatment care, all patients should engage in gentle massage of the treatment area for five minutes, five times a day, over a span of five consecutive days. This practice assists in distributing the liquid injection evenly and helps prevent the formation of nodules or lumps. Following the initial 3-4 treatment sessions, the outcomes of Sculptra injections endure over an extended period. Most patients typically require only one annual touch-up and maintenance session to uphold the enduring results achieved.

How Can You Get Started with Sculptra for Facial Rejuvenation Today?

If you are feeling a diminished sense of confidence due to volume loss, heightened skin looseness, and more prominent facial wrinkles, Dr. Green in NYC can help. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board certified cosmetic dermatologist and is known to be one of the best Botox injectors in New York. Dr. Green has been consistently voted as one of the “Best Doctors” by Castle Connelly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times as a pioneer in the field of cosmetic and medical dermatology. Please call the office today at 212-535-3088 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss if you are a candidate for Sculptra.