What is it?
Sculptra is a synthetic injectable material knows as "Poly-L-Lactic
acid." Poly-L-Lactic acid is biocompatible (a material
that does not harm the body) and biodegradable (able to be broken
down by the body). Poly-L-lactic acid has been widely used for
many years in dissolvable stitches, soft tissue implants and
other types of implants. Sculptra is injected below the surface
of the skin in the area of fat loss. Sculptra provides a gradual
increase in skin thickness. Visible results appear within the
first few treatment sessions.
What does it help & not help?
Usually helps with:
Sculptra is injected into the skin for restoration
and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy)
in people with human immunodeficiency virus.
Will not help with:
Sculptra will not correct the underlying cause of facial
fat loss, but will help improve the appearance by increasing
skin thickness in the treated area.
How long will it last? Treatment results will differ for each person. In a clinical
study, treatment results lasted for up to 2 years after the first
treatment session in most patients. Touch-up treatments may be needed
to maintain the desired effect..
Surgical Considerations Sculptra treatment is performed under local anesthesia in
an accredited outpatient surgery center or hospital. For about
a day, there may be slight bruising and swelling, which can be
concealed with makeup. Visit the Sculptra
web site for more information.
Dr. Vincent Iacono, M.D.
• Plastic and
Reconstructive Surgery • Warwick,
RI 02886 • 401-738-8610
