General Information
All faces lose volume as we age, so Sculptra is a great option to help combat the natural loss of collagen. This treatment typically lasts about 2 years, but given that it is a poly-Llactic acid collagen stimulator, it can last longer with noticeable improvements seen well past the 2-year mark.
It’s normal to feel some discomfort or pain during the procedure and to see bruising develop after, so in-office we place ice followed by topical application of Arnicare gel to the treatment area to reduce bruising. If you bruise, we expect it to heal in about 7-14 days. It is also normal to experience redness and swelling around the injected areas, which should resolve over the next hours to days. Asymmetry is part of normal human anatomy and is often enhanced during times of swelling, like directly after injections. It is normal for eyebrows, cheeks, and smiles to be uneven at baseline, and for this reason, we recommend waiting two weeks for your filler to “settle” before discussing changes.
The following are post-treatment recommendations to improve comfort, reduce inflammation, and limit the chance of infection:
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face.
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, heavy exercise, and sun/heat exposure for 3-5 days after treatment.
- Take this time to rest and heal instead.
- Massage the treated area(s) for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days.
- Ice the treated area(s) for the next 24-48 hours as your Bellora esthetician instructs.
- Do not apply heat unless directed to do so.
- If pain relief is needed, take over-the-counter Tylenol as needed (instead of ibuprofen/Motrin/Advil).
- Do not lay down flat for several hours after your treatment, and sleep on your back with your head elevated for 3-5 days after treatment, to help lessen swelling.
- Avoid applying makeup, but if you need to apply product we recommend waiting until after the first 24hrs, and using new or well-cleaned brushes and makeup.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, high salt/sugar food, spicy food, and cigarettes for at least 24-48 hours after your procedure, as these may contribute to increased swelling, bruising, and redness.
- Stay hydrated and eat as cleanly as possible, focusing on nutrient-rich whole food.
- Follow the skincare recommendations given to you by your Bellora esthetician at the end of your treatment, and wait at least 2 weeks before resuming cosmetic treatments using laser/ultrasound/peels/facials/microdermabrasion.
These recommendations should not inhibit your ability to participate in most normal day-to-day activities, but if swelling becomes extremely uncomfortable or if you experience any other extreme symptoms (such as numbness, tingling, discomfort, facial muscle weakness, skin ulceration/discoloration around injection sites) please contact us right away.
Contact Us
For questions or concerns not requiring an urgent response, please email us at beth@belloramedicalaesthetics.com. For questions or concerns requiring an urgent response please call us at (206) 683-4893. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 promptly.
View our downloadable Sculptra aftercare instructions here.