Sculptra Information & Instructions
Sculptra is a biostimulatory aesthetic injectable that helps stimulate your own natural collagen production to smooth facial wrinkles and improve skin tightness, revealing a refreshed-looking you.
This treatment is Not for everyone:
Do not receive Sculptra if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Sculptra is not generally recommended if you have a history of surgical facelifts/implants in the past.
We do not treat patients who have had Bellafill in the past.
If you have a history of a neuromuscular or immunosuppressive disorder, please get a signed note from your treating provider authorizing the use of Sculptra.
Keep in mind:
Please wait 3 months before or after dermal filler to get Sculptra.
Do not schedule any of the following for 4 weeks before or after Sculptra:
- Dental cleaning or dental work (crowns, root canals, etc.)
- Surgery of any kind
- Internal device placement
- Any vaccines
- Tattoos or permanent make-up
If you have a special event or vacation coming up, you should schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks in advance.
We recommend waiting at least 2 weeks before and after your Sculptra to have any other cosmetic facial treatments, including laser, ultrasound, peel, facials, microneedling, microdermabrasion, etc.
Before your treatment:
- If you have a history of cold sores, we recommend you are pretreated with valacyclovir prior to your injections. Please let us know if you need a prescription called into your pharmacy.
- It is recommended to discontinue aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), platelet inhibitors, anticoagulants, fish oil, vitamin E, vitamin A, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic, kava kava, celery root and any other herbal or homeopathic remedies that may contribute to bleeding risk at least 1 week prior to Sculptra injections. Please consult with your primary care provider prior to discontinuing any of these medications.
- We recommend discontinuing products containing retinols (Retin-A) 3 days prior to treatments to avoid increased redness and irritation.
- Avoid alcohol, niacin supplements, and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment, as these may contribute to increased swelling, bruising, and irritation. Limit caffeine intake.
If you develop a cold/flu, cold sore, blemish or rash, etc. in the area to be treated prior to your appointment, please wait at least 2 weeks to reschedule.
Day of treatment:
Please come to your Sculptra appointment with a clean face (NO make-up on).
After your treatment:
You must massage the treated areas using the 5-5-5 rule: Massage treated areas 5 times a day, for 5 minutes each time, for the next 5 days. If you had Sculptra in the neck, massage one side of the neck at a time, and massage in an upward direction. You can use Arnica gel or Aquaphor to help with the self-massage.
This is integral to avoid unwanted side effects and a smooth result!
Common side effects after Sculptra include swelling, bruising, tenderness/soreness, lumps, redness, and itching at the injection sites. Ice/cold packs may be gently applied to areas of swelling after injections and can help improve these symptoms.
You may follow your normal skincare routine tonight, using a gentle cleanser without harsh scrubbing. Please speak to your provider for a recommendation on which cleanser will be best for you and your treatment.
- No straining, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise, excessive sun or heat exposure, exposure to extreme cold, or drinking alcoholic beverages for 24 hours following treatment.
- Wearing make-up is not recommended for 24 hours following treatment.
- If you have a small bump that remains 4-6 weeks after your Sculptra treatment, please let us know, and we will see you back in the office to resolve it.
Please notify us immediately if you experience any intense areas of pain or significant bruising. Call the office, if you have any questions or concerns.
