sculptra®

Usually 2-4 sessions spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. Some people may need more depending on how much correction is required, their skin condition, age, etc.

Some initial changes (texture, mild smoothing) may be seen within the first-few weeks. More significant results typically become visible over 3-6 months, as collagen builds up and skin structure strengthens. Full effect often around 6-12 months, with ongoing improvements.

Clinical trials show benefits maintained up to 2 years in many patients, including improvement in radiance, wrinkle severity and firmness. Individual duration depends on skin age, lifestyle, amount treated and follow-ups. Maintenance treatments can help extend longevity.

Discomfort is usually mild. The injection procedure involves small needles; numbing or local anaesthetic may be used. Swelling or tenderness for a few days is common.

If you’re concerned about any discomfort, you can take paracetamol beforehand or after your treatment (as long as you have no allergies or contraindications). Always follow the recommended dosage and check the patient safety information if you’re unsure.

Sculptra® is a low-downtime treatment — most people get back to their normal routine straight away. You can expect some mild redness, swelling, or bruising after your appointment, but these effects are completely normal and usually settle within a few days.

Top tips for managing side effects:

• Applying ice packs to the treated areas can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Makeup: After 24 hours have passed you can use light makeup to cover any redness or bruising — just avoid pressing or massaging the area at first.

• Clothing: If you’ve had treatment on the body, wear loose, comfy clothes to avoid putting pressure on the area.

• Check-ins: If you’re worried about anything or notice unexpected side effects, get in touch with your practitioner — we’re always happy to help.

• People with active skin infections or inflammation in the treatment area

• Keloid or hypertrophic scarring tendency

• History of severe allergic reaction to any component

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• Certain autoimmune or immunosuppressed conditions (individual assessment required)

• People with unrealistic expectations.

• People with very thin or fragile skin (depending on practitioner guidance).

Common effects: swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness. These usually resolve in a few days to a couple of weeks.

Rare side effects: small nodules, unevenness, delayed lumps. If you notice any persistent bumps or unexpected changes, contact us.

To reduce the risk of bruising:

• Do not take NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, diclofenac, etc) for seven days before treatment (unless prescribed, if prescribed check with your doctor before stopping).

• Avoid alcohol, high doses of vitamin E, fish oils, ginkgo biloba or other supplements that thin the blood 24-48 hours before.

• If you take anti coagulation medications like Warfarin, Apixiban, rivaroxiban, dabigatran and edoxiban, please inform the clinic. These drugs are normally given if you have atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rate) to prevent strokes. These medications should not be stopped. You may potentially still be able to go ahead with treatment however there is a significant increased risk of bruising.

To reduce risk of infection, immune response and skin reactions:

• No dental work or vaccinations for 2 weeks prior to treatment.

• Ensure skin is healthy — no active breakouts or irritation in the area to be treated.

• Let your practitioner know about any medical history (autoimmune, allergies, prior filler treatments, keloid scarring, skin conditions, medications etc.).

Skin Prep:

• On the day, arrive with clean skin (no makeup if possible), and plan for some mild swelling/bruising (so maybe avoid high-pressure social commitments that evening).

• Avoid harsh treatments such as chemical peels, lasers, waxing, etc. for 5-7 days prior to treatment.

• Ensure at least 7 days between any other injectable treatment/s and having sculptra® treatment. Please disclose any recent or planned injectable treatments at your initial consultation with your practitioner so they can advise you individually.

Pain relief:

If you’re concerned about any discomfort, you can take paracetamol beforehand or after your treatment (as long as you have no allergies or contraindications). Always follow the recommended dosage and check the patient safety information if you’re unsure.

• Immediately after treatment apply cold/ice packs (wrapped in cloth) at regular intervals for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Massage: The 5-5-5 Rule - Massage the treated area as instructed by your practitioner for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days. This helps distribute product evenly and prevent nodule formation. It is vital that you follow this massage protocol to ensure you get the best results and prevent and lumps forming.

• For the first 24-48 hours: avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise, sun, tanning, heavy sweating, hot baths, saunas/steam rooms/hot tubs.

• Sleep with your head elevated (using an extra pillow) to reduce swelling for first night or two.

• Try to avoid sleeping on your face for several nights. Consider using a beauty pillow if you are a side or front sleeper.

• Avoid smoking for as long as possible to support healing.

• Use gentle skincare; avoid rubbing, exfoliating aggressively in treated areas for several days.

• Stay well-hydrated to support collagen production and skin health.

• Monitor for any signs of undue redness, bumps, or other reactions; contact practitioner if you notice anything of concern.