Choosing to undergo the Sculptra Aesthetic facial filler treatment can help correct or diminish deep lines and wrinkles, sunken eyes, hallowed cheeks or an indented chin. However, you may have some misconceptions about the procedure.
Myth: It Only Treats Imperfections on the Face
Fact: While the face is the area of the body most commonly treated with this procedure, you can also elect to undergo this filler on other areas of your body, such as the hands, the abdomen and the upper chest. When used on these areas, the filler will target wrinkles and uneven texture that may result from weight loss, liposuction or scarring.
Myth: You Will Get Instant Ideal Results
Fact: The Sculptra process takes a minimum of three sessions, but it may take as many as six sessions, if the area(s) to be treated are large and/or the wrinkles and recessions are deep. You can expect an average of four sessions. Each session will be spaced three to six weeks apart, so it will take between nine and thirty-six weeks before you see ideal results. However, after each session, you should notice that imperfections become slightly less visible and the skin is firming into a more even texture. Results with this filler are gradual, but this can be an advantage because you'll have slightly better results after each session instead of an obvious, overnight change.
Myth: It's a Toxin-Based Facial Filler
Fact: Unlike some of the other injectable facial filler options, this filler is not toxin-based. Sculptra is made mostly from Poly-L-lactic acid, which is naturally produced by the body following active movement, such as exercise. When naturally produced, Poly-L-lactic acid firms muscles and skin over time. Because Poly-L-lactic acid is naturally produced by the body, this facial filler is bio-compatible and safely absorbed by the body, posing much less risk of poisoning than the toxin-based fillers.
Myth: You'll Have to Take Time off from Work to Recover
Fact: Getting this facial filler requires no downtime. If you can schedule your sessions to allow yourself a day to rest, you may find the time off beneficial, as you may experience some redness and swelling the first day or two after treatment, which you can alleviate by placing ice on your face. However, although you may bruise over the next week slightly, you will not need to refrain from most activities. Just be sure to wear sunscreen during the day.
Myth: The Results Are Permanent
Fact: Unfortunately, there are no facial filler options whose results are permanent. However, Sculptra is often regarded as the longest lasting facial filler, with results lasting up to two years before you need to return for maintenance visits. There have been cases in which the results have lasted as many as three years, but there are also some cases in which the results last only one year. Still, other fillers typically last only four to six months.
If, after separating the myths from the facts, you think that Sculptra is the right cosmetic treatment for you, make a consultation appointment with your cosmetic specialist. Knowing how many treatments you'll need can help you more accurately determine the cost and length of treatment.
