Sculptra: Dr. Cassis & Dr. Webb
In July 2009 the FDA approved Sculptra® Aesthetic for the correction of shallow to deep smile lines, contour deficiencies and other lovely facial wrinkles.
I recently spoke with Dr. Tami Cassis (pic below left) of Cassis Dermatology in Louisville, KY and Dr. Kelli Webb (pic below right) of Skin Secrets in Lexington, KY about Sculptra – what we should know, first and foremost, before trying it. These two doctors and their practices, especially on a national level, come highly recommended and preferred.
Please read the HMS interview below discussing Sculptra, the latest option being referred to as the ‘liquid facelift!’
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HMS: One frequently mentioned Sculptra benefit is it’s basically a facelift with less cutting. Do you agree?
Dr. Cassis: Sculptra stimulates a patients natural collegen production and helps efface shallow to deep lines in the face. It really depends on the degree of volume loss and sagging to compare a face lift with Sculptra, each patient is so individual and it is always ideal to have a consultation to determine the best surgical / non-surgical options. If the patient in the long run will benefit more from a face lift then I will refer them to a local plastic surgeon.
HMS: Do you think Sculptra is a better choice overall when a patient wants to tighten/fill the skin rather than having an actual face lift procedure?
Dr. Webb: It is always a more natural result – albeit maybe less dramatic – but that is often the most appealing aspect to the average Sculptra patient. What I find to be so exciting about Sculptra is that it is more of a full facial volumizer than some of the other fillers. By collagen stimulation in the dermis it seems to really increase thickness and turgor of skin which is very unique to this filler.
HMS: How quickly do you see results? I have heard it is a gradual process, yet lasts longer than other injectables, can you explain?
Dr. Cassis: Sculptra is recommended as a series of injections (usually 3 sessions, 1-2 vials, 4-8 weeks apart). You will see initial results due to the volume, or solubilized Sculptra, that is injected, but it will take the full 3 sessions to see the maximum results. The results will last at least 2 years.
HMS: Is it painful?
Dr. Cassis: We have the patients rest with topical numbing medicine to help with the slight discomfort from te needle sticks. Sculptra is partially mixed with lidocaine, so after the first couple of injections, the patient feels like they are at the dentist. The numbing sensation will last about an hour. Almost all fo my patients have commented that they think Sculptra is less painful than other fillers.
HMS: Can Sculptra be used for lip injections? Other areas for suggested use?
Dr. Cassis: Sculptra is not to be injected into the lips. We can inject it into the hands.
HMS: What about feet? There are studies reporting women are having it injected into the ball of the foot to alleviate high heel pain, thoughts?
Dr. Webb: I think other fillers that provide more immediate volume are probably better suited for this.
Both Dr. Cassis and Dr. Webb stressed that as with any filler there are risks of bruising, swelling, and injection site redness. Post-procedural numbness will usually wear off in about an hour. It is important to have a consultation with your physician to see if you are a true candidate for sculptra. It ranges from 800-1000 dollars a vial. Also always remember, as with any/all cosmetic procedures, it should be injected by a Board Certifited Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon! With Sculptra it may only be injected by an MD that has had advanced hands on Sculptra-specific training.
If you would like to know more that maybe wasn’t mentioned, please email hautemommas@hautemommastuff.com – Thank you!
