Your Guide to Collagen-Inducing Sculptra® Injections
Everything you need to know about Sculptra® facials in Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon, BC.
I’ve been offering cosmetic injections as part of my Naturopathic Medicine practice for years now, but lately there has been a noticeable shift—one that perfectly aligns with my values as a provider. After a wave of overinjecting (often resulting in overfilling), it seems that the masses are now coming around to the more natural approach to cosmetic injections that I’ve always stood by.
At the center of this cosmetic injection revolution is Sculptra®, the injectable that differs from any dermal filler or neuromodulator you’ve tried previously. Rather than treating the visible concern (fine lines, volume loss, wrinkles), Sculptra® treats the root cause—which is always my goal as your Naturopathic Doctor. How does Sculptra® do it? Let’s get into all of your burning questions now.
What is Sculptra®?
Since its FDA and Health Canada approval, Sculptra® has helped hundreds of thousands of patients achieve a more youthful appearance by stimulating natural collagen production. In the past, when patients came to me looking for solutions for fine lines, wrinkles and volume loss, I could only offer short-term fixes such as botox as dermal filler, which both yield wonderful results but only last a few months at a time. Now with Sculptra®, I can offer my patients an option that can address the root cause of those same skin concerns for up to two years. This revolutionary, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) based injectable restores the inner structure of your skin by stimulating your own natural collagen production, which helps restore volume, reduce fine lines and minimize wrinkles.
How does Sculptra® work?
Sculptra® is primarily composed of poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic substance that's both biocompatible and biodegradable, lending to its established usage in medical scenarios such as absorbable stitches and soft tissue implants. When introduced to the skin via injection, Sculptra® reaches the deeper layers of the skin and activates fibroblasts—the cells responsible for collagen synthesis. As the body metabolizes the PLLA microparticles, fresh collagen fibers take their place, ultimately restoring and boosting the skin's volume and suppleness.
What areas is Sculptra® best for?
Sculptra® is most effective in the following areas:
Temples: It treats hollowing and volume loss by injecting into the deep plane of the temple region, offering significant improvements in facial contour.
Mid-cheek: Sculptra® is suitable for addressing fine lines and hollowing, common in weight loss. Injections are made superficially below the boney cheek region and can be paired with other dermal fillers for enhanced results.
Lower face: It offers a natural structuring effect for issues like jowling and pre-jowl depressions.
Chin: Sculptra® can be used for chin augmentation where it's injected along the jaw bone to achieve the desired effect.
How soon will I see Sculptra® results?
Following the Sculptra® treatment, the injected areas may appear fuller initially, largely due to swelling. The real transformation becomes evident around the six-week mark as collagen production increases. Your Sculptra® results will continue to improve over the months following the final treatment in your series.
How long do Sculptra® results last?
Unlike typical dermal fillers you may have had with me, Sculptra® results improve over time and will likely require a series of treatments. Remember, you won’t see dramatic improvement immediately after each treatment; as your collagen production becomes more efficient, your results will gradually become apparent. To achieve full results, it is so important to maintain your follow-up appointments in your personalized treatment series. Sculptra® is unique in its longevity. While standard hyaluronic acid fillers last anywhere from four to six months, Sculptra® results can last up to two years. Since Sculptra® results are prompted by natural increased collagen production, the skin's transformation happens subtly and naturally.
Who can inject Sculptra®?
While this will change slightly from province to province, in British Columbia, only licensed medical physicians, dentists, or registered nurses who have also obtained Sculptra® training can safely and effectively administer Sculptra® to patients. Although I have been a cosmetic injector provider and administered hundreds of injections as part of my Naturopathic Medicine practice, I was required to also complete specialized training with a Sculptra® specialist. This training was extremely insightful and ensures that I can provide you, my wonderful patients, the best care and results possible with this unique formula. If you are seeking Sculptra® injections outside of the Kamloops and Kelowna area where I practice, I highly recommend doing your research and asking potential providers questions about their training and experience with the product.
How much does Sculptra® cost in British Columbia?
While I wish I could provide a set cost for Sculptra® in British Columbia, the cost of treatments truly depends on the individual. The number of sessions and number of vials used per session is determined on a case by case basis. That being said, I offer complimentary consultations and offer my patients complete transparency in pricing and what to expect prior to beginning any cosmetic injection treatment plan. It is my goal to provide you with all the information you require to make an informed decision that is right for you.
How long are Sculptra® treatments?
Like any cosmetic injection treatment with me, your Sculptra® treatment starts with a consultation. During this time, we will review your treatment plan, any questions you may have and discuss post-treatment care. As you might expect, your first Sculptra® treatment will likely be slightly longer as we will map out a personalized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. The actual injection process for Sculptra® is similar to other dermal fillers or neuromodulators you may have tried. I will mark out the injection points with a skin-safe marketing pencil. The injection process is relatively comfortable, lasting about half an hour. Topical anesthetics can be applied to reduce any discomfort.
What downtime can I expect after Sculptra®?
One of the many reasons why I love Sculptra® is because no downtime is required—you may return to your normal daily activities post-treatment. That being said, the same general rules that apply for post-treatment care other injectables apply with Sculptra®. Exercise should be avoided for at least 24 hours post treatment, facials and dental work should be avoided for two weeks after your treatment and aftercare instructions should be followed for optimal results. The first 24 hours after Sculptra® injections, swelling is common. To minimize swelling, apply a cold pack to the treatment area for a few minutes at a time. Never apply ice directly to the skin; instead wrap the cold pack with a cloth. To help your Sculptra® settle and minimize the risk of small lumps forming under the skin, you will be required to gently massage the treatment area for five minutes at a time, five times a day for five days. Specific massage techniques will be provided at the time of your treatment. Finally, it is best to avoid direct sunlight or UV exposure until your swelling has subsided. I will provide detailed instructions and answer any other questions you may have at the time of your treatment.
Am I a good candidate for Sculptra®?
While Sculptra® is a promising solution for restoring volume loss due to aging, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this treatment. Here are some characteristics of good candidates for Sculptra®:
Healthy individuals: Individuals should be in good health and have no serious medical conditions that could interfere with the treatment or healing process.
Age-related volume loss: Sculptra® is designed to add volume and stimulate collagen in areas where fat has been lost due to aging. It's often used to treat sunken cheeks, hollow eyes, and deep folds between the nose and mouth.
Patient expectations: Good candidates understand that Sculptra® results are not immediate, and multiple treatments spaced over several months may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.
No allergies to Sculptra® ingredients: Candidates should not have any known allergies to any of the ingredients in Sculptra®, such as poly-L-lactic acid.
No skin infections or inflammation: Individuals should not have any skin infections or inflammation in the area where Sculptra® will be injected.
Not pregnant or breastfeeding: As a general rule, cosmetic treatments like Sculptra® are not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Sculptra® may not be suitable for people who are prone to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring. Always consult with a qualified Sculptra® provider and your family doctor prior to committing to Sculptra® or any other cosmetic injectable treatment.
Booking Sculptra® in Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon, BC
While I don’t believe anyone needs cosmetic injections, I am proud to offer my patients the option of Sculptra® for its many long-lasting benefits and science-backed results. I know we covered a lot in this article and that you’ll probably still have questions. As always, feel free to book in a complimentary consultation at any of my six locations across Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon:
Beautiful U in Kamloops, BC
Enhanced Reflection in Kamloops, BC
Merle Norman in Kelowna, BC
Kelowna Laser Spa in Kelowna, BC
Bonita Beauty and Wellness in Vernon, BC
Studio Ki in Vernon, BC
