Sculptra

Biostimulatory injectables are treatments that activate the skin’s natural collagen-building processes. Depending on the product, they may also provide some immediate support, but their primary benefit is the gradual strengthening and renewal of the skin’s underlying structure.

Radiesse is a calcium hydroxylapatite injectable that provides immediate structural support while stimulating new collagen and elastin production. It may be used to improve facial contours, restore definition, and rejuvenate areas where the skin has become thinner or less firm.

Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid injectable that gradually stimulates collagen production rather than creating conventional filler-like volume. Often described as a “non-filler filler,” it can help restore facial structure and soften signs of aging through subtle improvements that develop over several months.

Once the areas to be treated are marked, numbing cream will be applied to the areas. Once you are numb, the areas are injected with the Sculptra. You will see an immediate volumization, but that is mostly from the water in the solution that will be absorbed. The volume will disappear the next day, and then it will gradually re-appear over the next few weeks. At Steele Dermatology, we typically reschedule you for four to six week later for follow-up and more treatment, if necessary.

Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate, precisely placed volume and can often be adjusted or dissolved. Biostimulatory injectables encourage your body to produce collagen, so results develop more gradually and cannot be reversed in the same way. The best choice depends on your anatomy, concerns, and desired timeline.

Biostimulatory injectables may help improve:

• Facial volume loss
• Mild skin laxity
• Wrinkles
• Folds
• Reduced definition in areas such as the cheeks, temples, jawline, and lower face.

Certain treatment approaches may also be used to improve skin quality on the neck, chest, or hands.

The timeline depends on the product used. Radiesse can provide visible support immediately, with additional improvement as collagen develops. Sculptra results emerge more gradually over several weeks to months and continue to build after each treatment session.

Some patients achieve their goals with a single Radiesse treatment, while others benefit from additional sessions or maintenance. Sculptra is often performed as a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. Dr. Johnson will recommend a plan based on the degree of correction needed and your desired result.

Results vary by product, treatment area, and individual response. Improvements from Radiesse may last a year or longer, while Sculptra results can remain visible for two years or more in some patients. Because both treatments stimulate collagen, the benefits may evolve gradually rather than ending at a specific point.

Swelling, redness, tenderness, or bruising may occur at the injection sites. Most patients return to their usual activities quickly, although the treated areas may feel temporarily firm or swollen. After Sculptra, specific massage instructions may be provided to help distribute the product evenly.

Yes. Biostimulatory injectables may be combined with hyaluronic acid fillers, neurotoxins, laser treatments, or other skin-renewing procedures. A combination plan can address facial support, expression lines, volume loss, and skin quality in a coordinated way.

Good candidates are generally seeking gradual, natural-looking improvement and are comfortable with results that develop over time. These products are not appropriate for every area or patient, making a careful medical and anatomical evaluation essential.