SCULPTRA - GALDERMA

SCULPTRA® Laboratory: Galderma

• Category: Collagen Biostimulator
• Active Molecule: Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA-SCA)
• Approach: "Activate your skin’s natural power."
• Strictly for medical use.

General Description

Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid-based fillers (which provide immediate volume by "filling" an area), Sculptra® works differently. It is an injectable biostimulator that targets the root cause of skin aging: collagen loss. It uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic substance (used for decades in suture threads), to stimulate the patient's fibroblasts to produce their own new collagen.

Mechanism of Action; Technology

1. PLLA-SCA Technology 

Sculptra contains PLLA microparticles. Once injected into the deep dermis, these microparticles create a controlled inflammatory response that "awakens" the skin cells (fibroblasts).

2. Neocollagenesis (Structural Restoration) 

Result: Gradually, the PLLA is broken down and replaced by the patient's own tissue. The skin regains its structure, firmness, and thickness.

3. Clinical Results

Increase in type 1 collagen production of 66.5% after 3 months. Lasting improvement in skin quality and volume.

Key Benefits and Indications

• Duration of Action: Proven results that can last up to 25 months (over 2 years) after the last injection.
• Type of Result: Gradual and subtle. Ideal for patients who do not want to change their appearance overnight but are looking for a natural improvement.
• Treated Areas: Temples, hollow cheeks, cheekbones, marionette lines, nasolabial folds, facial contour (oval), and skin laxity.
• "Glow" Effect: Beyond volume, Sculptra improves the overall quality of the skin, its radiance, and its texture (tightening of tissues).

❓ FAQ 

1. What is the difference between the two?

What is the fundamental difference between Sculptra® and a hyaluronic acid filler (like Restylane®)?

Galderma explains the distinction as follows: a hyaluronic acid filler is a "filler" (immediate and mechanical volumizing effect). Sculptra® is a "stimulator" (long-term treatment). Sculptra does not aim to fill a wrinkle instantly, but to rebuild the skin's internal structure by stimulating the natural production of collagen. It is a long-term investment in skin quality.

2. How many sessions are needed?

Sculptra® is generally not a "one-shot" treatment. The standard protocol recommended by Galderma includes an average of 2 to 3 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The exact number of vials depends on the severity of the volume loss and the patient's age (often summarized by the rule of thumb "one vial per decade of life" as a basis for discussion, to be adapted by the doctor).

3. What is the "5-5-5 Rule" in post-treatment?

This is an essential massage protocol dictated by Galderma to ensure proper distribution of the product and prevent the formation of small nodules. The patient must massage the treated areas: For 5 minutes, 5 times a day, For the 5 days following the injection.

4. Are the results immediate?

No, and it's important to know this. Right after the session, you will look "plumped up" due to the dilution fluid and swelling, but this effect disappears within 24-48 hours. The "real" result begins to appear gradually after about 4 to 6 weeks, as your body produces new collagen. Improvement continues over several months. 5. Is Sculptra® safe and absorbable? Yes. The main component, poly-L-lactic acid, has been used in the human body (absorbable sutures, orthopedic implants) for over 30 years. It is completely biocompatible and biodegradable. It is eventually eliminated naturally by the body (metabolized into CO2 and water), leaving behind the new collagen network that your skin has created.

PROFESSIONAL RANGE. USE IN MEDICAL CABINET AS NEED FOR A MEDICAL ACT CARRIED OUT BY A SPECIALIZED DOCTOR,. DERMATOLOGIST OR AESTHETIC MEDICINE.