Sculptra: What to Expect and Aftercare

With Sculptra, patience and realistic expectations are necessary. Sculptra results are not immediate but rather progressive over time, and typically, 2 to 3 sessions are needed to achieve the desired results. 

What to Expect:

1. Immediate Effects: After the injection, you may notice some immediate volumizing effects due to the saline added to dilute the Sculptra solution. However, these initial results are temporary and will diminish as the swelling subsides within 1-2 days.
2. Initial Improvement: Over the first few days (or weeks following the procedure), you may notice some improvement in the treated areas as any swelling and/or bruising resolves.
3. Collagen Production: The primary mechanism of action for Sculptra is the stimulation of collagen production in the skin. Collagen synthesis typically begins around 4 to 6 weeks after treatment and continues for several months.
4. Gradual Enhancement: As collagen production increases, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in skin texture, volume, and overall appearance. This enhancement occurs over the course of several weeks to months.
5. Optimal Results: The full benefits of Sculptra treatment are usually evident around 2 to 3 months after the treatment session. At this point, you’ll likely see significant improvement in volume loss, wrinkles, and skin laxity.
6. Long-Term Maintenance: Results from Sculptra can last up to two years or more, depending on factors such as your age, skin condition, lifestyle, and the number of treatment sessions you undergo. Some individuals may benefit from occasional touch-up treatments to maintain their desired results.

Aftercare Instructions:

After a Sculptra treatment, it is recommended to massage the area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day for 5 days (the 5-5-5 Rule). This helps integrate the Sculptra evenly throughout the treatment area. It is helpful to apply some type of skincare product before each massage to give your skin some “slip”. Our favourite product to use for this is the Ultimate Boost from AlumierMD which enhances the results with its proprietary blend of peptides, antioxidants, niacinamide and ingredients that help promote collagen and elastin production. The night of your treatment, it would be beneficial to sleep with an extra pillow (the extra elevation may help prevent excess swelling).