Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are one of the most popular facial rejuvenation treatments, but another contender can deliver fantastic results. Sculptra uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and leave you looking rejuvenated.
Choosing between Sculptra and dermal fillers ultimately depends on your unique needs and preferences. In this guide, we’ll explore the difference between Sculptra vs. dermal fillers that we offer at DLK Avenue in Yorkville, ON.
What Is Sculptra And How Does It Work?
Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler that uses poly-L-lactic acid to restore volume and improve fullness. It can treat fine lines and wrinkles without surgery, offering long-term restoration and facial rejuvenation with minimal touch-up treatments and no downtime.
Sculptra is unique in that it offers gradual transformation vs. immediate results. This is because Sculptra naturally increases your body’s collagen production to enhance your skin’s elasticity and appearance. Because it enhances slowly over a period of three to six months, Sculptra is also longer lasting than many hyaluronic acid fillers and requires fewer touch-ups.
The main ingredient in Sculptra, poly-L-lactic acid, enhances collagen production by triggering a harmless inflammatory response in the body. This inflammation causes the body to begin a healing process that involves accelerating collagen production and delivering it to the injection site.
As a biostimulatory agent, PLLA can restore fullness while also triggering collagen to enhance overall skin quality. This can make it more suitable for certain patients over dermal fillers, which restore volume more than they enhance collagen production.
Benefits of Sculptra
Sculptra has numerous advantages, including minimal invasiveness, gradual facial rejuvenation, a low risk of side effects, and and a low risk of side effects. It is an FDA-approved treatment for correcting facial folds, including nasolabial creases (laugh lines), lines around the mouth (marionette lines), chin wrinkles, and the cheeks.
The long-lasting results of Sculptra make it one of the most appealing fillers for patients with moderate to severe facial wrinkles. In addition to targeting deep wrinkles around the middle and lower face, it can also help restore facial volume gradually.
Ideal Candidates For Sculptra
Individuals with moderate to severe facial wrinkles or volume loss are ideal candidates for Sculptra. Additionally, this dermal filler is suitable for those looking for gradual, natural-looking results that are less evident than some of the instant dermal fillers.
However, the best way to ensure you are happy with your treatment is to work with a licensed healthcare professional who can provide you with personalized care. Only work with an experienced, licensed injector who can expertly administer Sculptra to your desired treatment areas.
Differences Between Sculptra And Other Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Fat Transfer)
Here is how Sculptra compares to other hyaluronic acid fillers:
- Sculptra: Uses biocompatible poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to gradually restore volume, treat wrinkles, and enhance skin quality by stimulating collagen through an inflammatory response. Results last 12 to 24 months on average.
- HA fillers such as Juvéderm & Restylane: Use biocompatible hyaluronic acid to restore lost volume and instantaneously enhance the fullness and contour of the face by holding water molecules where it is injected. Results typically last six to 12 months.
- Collagen fillers such as Bellafill: Use human or animal collagen to restore lost collagen and deliver instant volume restoration. Carries a much higher risk of side effects; results last between three to six months.
- Fat Transfer: Uses fat cells taken from your own body to inject in other areas and offer volume; results are typically long-lasting and can be potentially permanent.
Sculptra is best for addressing facial wrinkles in the mid to lower facial region; as an FDA-approved treatment, it offers low risks, minimal side effects, and a higher efficacy than other fillers on the market. It is also less risky and invasive than fat transfer.
Duration And Results
Sculptra will begin to show results within three months after treatment; the results are long-lasting with many patients not needing repeat treatments for up to 24 months. The most important consideration is the duration it takes to see results. If you are looking for immediate restoration, then hyaluronic acid fillers are likely the best choice. For those that are okay waiting for longer lasting results, Sculptra can deliver phenomenal results.
Choosing The Right Filler For Your Needs
The best way to determine the right filler for your facial wrinkles is to work with a qualified healthcare provider. They should be licensed and experienced in working with Sculptra and other HA fillers.
During your consultation, it is important to discuss your goals and expectations. You can bring photos of your younger self to show what you may like to achieve; this can help your healthcare provider help clarify what filler can achieve and what level of rejuvenation you can expect from various options.
Schedule a Consultation for Dermal Fillers in Yorkville
The experienced team at DLK Avenue is here to help you look your best and feel confident. Our team of medical experts is led by dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett. Please contact us today to request an appointment. We look forward to helping you realize your aesthetic goals.
