Sculptra (PLLA): the classic bio-stimulatory dermal filler

Sculptra (PLLA) stands for Poly-L-Lactic Acid) has been around for many years. I initially injected for volumizing patients who suffered from active HIV AIDs who were on antiviral cocktail in 2007. These patient suffered severe facial lipodystrophy. Sculptra is not an easy agent to inject or manage. First of all, it is expensive, then one must diluted 48-72 hours ahead prior to injection so Sculptra could properly be reconstituted into a suspension. When injecting Sculptra, needle clogging can happen despite the best effort of properly mixing Sculptra.

Yet Sculptra is unique in so many ways. In the state of Oregon, as far as I am aware, only physicians and nurse practitioners have the license to purchase and inject Sculptra. In contrast, HA fillers are injected by LPNs, RNs, nurse practitioners, and physicians.  Sculptra is injected for its natural looking results and long lasting results. When it is done well and properly, it is also the most desirable injectable agent for skin tightening for neck, decollete, buttocks, and thighs.  At Renew, we combine Cellfina the cellulite dimpling release device and Sculptra injection to give our patients the best results for Cellulite reduction and skin tightening in the same area.

 

 

Yvonne Yan Duan, FNP