Skinboosters and mesotherapy

Sculptra

Sculptra is not a filler: its poly-L-lactic acid acts as a biostimulator, prompting the skin to produce collagen gradually. Nothing can be judged on leaving — the volume seen on the day comes from the water in the product and disappears within a few days; the intended effect then develops slowly, over several weeks to several months, and varies from person to person. It is placed deep in the temples, cheeks and jawline, never in the lips or around the eyes. The protocol usually comprises two to three sessions, and massage at home is part of the treatment.

Duration: 30 min
Protocol: 2 to 3 sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart

Indications

Hollow temples
Cheeks losing fullness
A jawline losing its firmness
A face thinned by weight loss

How it goes

The initial consultation
Examination of the face and skin quality, mapping of the areas that have hollowed, and screening for contraindications: active autoimmune disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding, infection on the area, a tendency to keloid scarring. The schedule is discussed from the outset — two to three sessions, and daily massage in the days after each one. No procedure is carried out on the day of the first consultation.
The session
The product, a powder, is reconstituted in advance with sterile water to form an even suspension. After disinfection and anaesthesia, it is placed deep, by needle or cannula depending on the area, in small amounts at several points. The area is then massaged straight away, at length, so that the product spreads evenly.
Aftercare and massage at home
Swelling, tenderness and sometimes small bruises are common in the first days, and the volume seen on the day fades: this is expected. At home, the area is massaged following the so-called “5-5-5” rule — five minutes, five times a day, for five days — which limits the risk of nodules. The effect then builds slowly, and the next session takes place only after four to six weeks.

Frequently asked questions

How is it different from hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid fills: it brings immediate volume where it is placed, and an enzyme can dissolve it. Sculptra does not fill: it stimulates collagen production, and the effect builds slowly, over several sessions. It cannot be dissolved by an enzyme, which calls for a carefully considered indication and measured quantities.

When does an effect show?

Not on leaving: the swelling on the day comes from the water in the product and disappears within a few days. The effect of the stimulation appears gradually, over several weeks to several months, and varies with age, skin quality and lifestyle. It is assessed before each new session, and no result is announced in advance.

What is a nodule, and how is it avoided?

It is a small firm lump, palpable and sometimes visible under the skin, caused by an accumulation of the product. The risk is limited by careful preparation of the product, deep injection, keeping away from the lips and the eye area, and massage — at the practice, then at home. A lump that appears, even several weeks later, should be reported to the practice: it needs examining.

Getting ready