What can I expect immediately after the treatment?
Immediately after the treatment you'll get a glimpse at your final results. While your face may appear "back to normal" tomorrow, today you'll see what your end results will be.
Expect a little discomfort. You can use ice or Tylenol if you wish.
What side effects should I expect?
The most common side effects with Sculptra include injection site reactions, such as bruising (21%), pain (13%), swelling (10%), and redness (2%). Itching and heat sensation have also been reported.
How do I do the massage?
You will be instructed massage treated areas 5 times a day for 5 minutes for 5 days to distribute solution and help prevent nodule formation. This may be uncomfortable for the first couple of days, but is still necessary. The easiest time to massage is when the face is moistened with cleanser or moisturizer.
Will I need more?
Most clients need 2-3 treatments to obtain optimal results.
Your provider will be able to give you the best idea of how many vials you'll need. Typically we see about 1 vial per decade of life.
Day Of The Treatment
We may use topical anesthetic medication in office before your scheduled appointment.
You may experience a mild amount of tenderness or stinging during and following injection.
Redness and swelling are normal. Some bruising may also be visible.
Pre Care
Avoid the use of Aspirin, NSAIDS, Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax
Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids for up to 1 week pre and post injection as they will increase your risk of bruising.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before (or after) your treatment to avoid extra bruising.
You may take Arnica tablets 2-3 days prior to your injection to reduce the risk of bruising.
Do not apply products that are potentially irritating for 2 -3 days before and after treatment (examples- tretinoin/retin-a, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone).
Inform your provider if you have a history of cold sores to receive advice on antiviral therapy prior to treatment.
Do not use the above stated if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Please inform your provider if you have any questions about this prior to the treatment.
Post Care
Ice (but avoid firm pressure) for 15 minutes 3 times the day of treatment.
You may take Acetaminophen/Tylenol if you experience any mild tenderness/discomfort.
Massage the areas 5 times a day, for 5 minutes each time, for 5 days after treatment.
After treatment there will be moderate swelling and redness with possibility of bruising.
These symptoms will resolve in about 7 days.
You may apply or take Arnica tablets to help decrease the amount of bruising.
Avoid extended UV exposure until any redness/swelling has subsided.
Apply SPF.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours to reduce bruising. You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately.
Avoid laser, IPL, or skin tightening treatments of the area for at least 2-3 weeks.
You may continue your topical products mentioned in Pre-care 1 week after injection.
