ABOUT SCULPTRA®
Sculptra® (poly-L-lactic acid) is a biostimulatory injectable that gradually restores lost facial volume and improves skin structure by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production.
Unlike traditional dermal fillers, Sculptra® works gradually over a series of sessions, delivering a natural, long-lasting rejuvenation that can last up to 2 years or more.
Following the proper pre- and post-care instructions helps ensure optimal results and minimize side effects.
PRE-TREATMENT CARE
Scheduling and Planning
- If you have a special event or vacation, schedule your appointment at least 4 weeks in advance to allow for healing and optimal collagen response.
- Avoid scheduling Sculptra® treatments within 2 weeks of dental work, vaccinations, or other facial procedures.
One Week Before Treatment
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements to reduce bruising and bleeding:
- Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen, ginkgo biloba, garlic, flaxseed oil, cod liver oil, fish oil, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E.
(Consult your physician before stopping any prescribed medications.)
- Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen, ginkgo biloba, garlic, flaxseed oil, cod liver oil, fish oil, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E.
- Optional: Begin Arnica montana supplements 2–3 days prior to help minimize bruising.
- Avoid retinoids, peels, or exfoliating products for several days before your appointment.
24–48 Hours Before Treatment
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to treatment, as these can increase bruising or swelling.
- Avoid intense physical exercise on the day of your appointment.
- Stay well hydrated and eat a light meal before your visit to reduce lightheadedness.
Day of Appointment
- Arrive with a clean face — no makeup, lotion, sunscreen, or serum.
- Inform your provider if you:
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.
- Have a history of keloid formation, autoimmune disease, or active infection.
- Have recently had any other injectables, lasers, or facial procedures.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Immediately After Treatment (First 24 Hours)
- Mild redness, swelling, tenderness, or bruising at the injection sites is common and typically resolves within a few days.
- Apply ice packs or cool compresses intermittently (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off) for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
- Avoid direct UV exposure or heat (saunas, tanning beds, hot yoga) until swelling and redness have resolved.
- You may gently wash your face with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water the evening after your treatment.
- Pat dry — do not rub the treated area.
Massage Protocol: 5–5–5 Rule
For the best Sculptra® results and to ensure even product distribution:
Massage the treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 days after your procedure.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before massaging.
- Use gentle, circular motions over the treated areas.
- A small amount of your regular moisturizer may be used to reduce friction.
First Week
- Temporary fullness right after your injection may diminish within a few days as swelling subsides — this is normal.
The true results appear gradually as your body begins producing new collagen. - Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive heat for 24–48 hours.
- Avoid facials, laser treatments, or exfoliating products for at least 1 week.
- Continue applying sunscreen daily (SPF 50+) and limit direct sun exposure.
RESULTS AND TREATMENT PLAN
- Early improvement may be visible after your first treatment, but collagen rebuilding takes time.
- Full results typically develop gradually over 6–12 weeks following each session.
- Most patients require a series of 3–4 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart for best results.
- Maintenance sessions every 12–18 months help sustain collagen stimulation and volume enhancement.
WHEN TO CALL OUR OFFICE
Contact Specialty Wellness & MedSpa immediately at 469-442-4442 if you experience:
- Increasing pain, severe swelling, or nodules under the skin
- Skin discoloration or blanching (white or gray areas)
- Signs of infection (warmth, drainage, fever)
- Persistent lumps or asymmetry after several weeks
Have Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call Specialty Wellness & MedSpa at 469-442-4442.
Our team is here to support you through every step of your treatment process to ensure safe, smooth, and effective results.