Aesthetic Fillers Serving Miami, Kendall, Pinecrest, & Palmetto Bay
Volume loss beneath the surface of your skin can have a profound impact on your once-youthful appearance. When you’re young, your skin is plump and full of vitality. But as you age, you start to experience a volume deficit.
Folds can develop between your nose and mouth, wrinkles can form around the mouth, volume is lost on either sides of the chin, in the cheeks, along the jawline, and in front of the ears and all of these changes combined may make you look older than you feel. Fight these signs of aging by restoring the volume beneath your skin with Sculptra® Aesthetic, an effective dermal filler.
Dr. Shaun Patel is a skilled injector who possesses a thorough understanding of facial aesthetics. Schedule a consultation at 786-618-5039 to discuss how Sculptra injections can help you achieve a smoother, more youthful complexion. We welcome patients from Miami, Miami Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, and nearby areas of Florida at our Coral Gables clinic.
What Is Sculptra?
Not all injectable products are created equal. There are key differences in the formulas, the areas that can be treated, and the results that the treatments produce.
Sculptra is an FDA-approved facial-volumizing filler. Many other dermal fillers are designed to fill a fine line or wrinkle instantly, but Sculptra works differently. Once injected, Sculptra stimulates the natural production of collagen, which in turn gradually replaces lost facial volume.
The star ingredient in Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a collagen stimulator that works deep within your skin. PLLA helps improve the structure of your face. Eventually, the PLLA is naturally absorbed by your body, leaving only beautiful aesthetic results behind. That’s what makes Sculptra such an exciting option for facial rejuvenation!
What Is Sculptra Used For?
Sculptra can be used to treat a variety of conditions in the facial area.
These conditions include the following:
- Wrinkles in the cheek area
- Wrinkles in the chin
- Marionette lines
- Nasolabial folds
- Signs of aging
The Cosmetic Benefits Of Volume Replacement
Volume loss is a natural part of aging. Its effects can be seen in the symptoms we all want to avoid, like drooping skin, hollowness, and deep shadows on the face. Instead of merely treating these symptoms, Sculptra treats the underlying cause by restoring precious facial volume.
By adding volume, Sculptra fills the skin and gives it a lifted appearance. Best of all, you don’t need an invasive facelift to achieve your desired results; you just need to boost your natural collagen supply.
If you want to look younger, it almost always comes down to restoring lost volume. Older faces are characterized by a lack of fullness. On the other hand, faces with sufficient volume look vibrant, have more highlights than shadows, and exude youthful energy.
Is Sculptra Right For Me?
Facial volume loss occurs as you age. It can begin in your 20’s and may become particularly noticeable after the age of 30.
Thankfully, the lost volume can be replenished using injectables. If you are concerned about the signs of aging due to volume loss, you may be a good candidate for Sculptra.
A variety of areas can be treated with Sculptra, including:
- Deep folds between the nose and mouth, also called nasolabial folds or “smile lines”
- Lines that form the shape of parentheses around the mouth, also known as “marionette lines”
- Volume loss in the cheeks, temples, jawline and around the chin
Sculptra is not injected around the lips or eyes, areas for which Restylane or Juvederm are better alternatives. The volume restoration associated with Sculptra restores youthful contours of the face and helps improve sagging skin.
Dr. Patel will determine if Sculptra is the most appropriate injectable for the areas that concern you. He will discuss the results that you want to achieve as well as your relevant medical history to determine your candidacy.
Pan-facial rejuvenation using Sculptra and Restylane Defyne
How Does Sculptra Compare To Other Dermal Fillers?
Many dermal fillers work immediately upon injection to replenish lost facial volume. Sculptra, a collagen-stimulating filler, targets visible aging a bit differently. Instead of offering rapid results, it encourages collagen production in your skin to gradually diminish the look of lines and wrinkles.
The treatment regimen for Sculptra is also unique in the world of dermal fillers. It typically consists of three injections over the course of three or four months. And the results are in a league of their own. Sculptra can improve the appearance of your skin for up to two years!
What Happens During a Sculptra Consultation?
During a Sculptra consultation, your provider will assess your facial structure and ask about your aesthetic goals. Dr. Patel will explain how Sculptra works, the number of treatments you might need, and what results you can expect. You will also be able to ask questions and discuss concerns. We may take photographs to document your starting point and plan your treatment.
How Should I Prepare for a Sculptra Treatment?
Avoid blood-thinning medications or supplements, including aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil, for at least a week prior to treatment to reduce potential bruising. You should also avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the treatment. During your consultation, your provider will give you detailed pre-treatment instructions.
What To Expect From Your Sculptra Treatment
You can find Dr. Patel’s pre- and post-treatment guidelines for Sculptra here. Like most injectable treatments, Sculptra can be administered in a short amount of time from the comfort of our Coral Gables office. Dr. Patel adds lidocaine, a numbing agent, to the Sculptra vial before the injection to minimize any potential discomfort.
The most common side effects of Sculptra include injection site reactions such as bruising and swelling. These usually resolve on their own within the first few days after injection. Occasionally, palpable but not visible lumps under the skin may occur after Sculptra injection but these too usually resolve on their own.
Sculptra, like BOTOX® Cosmetic and other injectables, is considered a no downtime procedure. You can return to your normal routine — with a few additional aftercare steps to follow — after leaving the office. Many patients even come in during their lunch break and then return to work.
What Are The Risks Of Sculptra?
Sculptra treatments can have some mild and temporary side effects. In a clinical trial, the most commonly reported side effects following these injections were:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Injection site pain
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Itching
- Lumps
The different types of side effects and their duration may vary. Talk to Dr. Patel to learn about other potential considerations that are associated with the Sculptra Aesthetic treatment.
Remember, the best way to minimize side effects is to visit a skilled provider. You can also do your part to ensure that everything goes smoothly by following all of your treatment guidelines.
Sculptra Results
Your results will not be visible immediately. Sculptra is designed to create a gradual, natural aesthetic improvement. While you may not notice results several days after your treatment, you will be able to see an improvement over the course of several months.
Sculptra is one of the longest lasting fillers we offer. Sculptra may last 2 years or longer, though yearly “touch up” treatments are recommended to maintain optimal results.
Face rejuvenation using Dysport, Sculptra, and Restylane Defyne
Aftercare And Recovery For Sculptra
Generally, Sculptra injections will not interfere with your busy schedule or daily routine. They require zero downtime and minimal aftercare to deliver their powerful youth-boosting benefits.
After getting Sculptra, you will not be able to apply makeup for four hours. Heavy exercise and excessive heat (hot tubs and saunas) should also be avoided for 24 hours. Additionally, you must massage the treated area regularly for five days after receiving your Sculptra injections. We invite you to review the full post-treatment instructions on our website for more details.
Meet Dr. Shaun Patel
Allergan Platinum Level Injector Dr. Shaun Patel is a leader in injectable treatments and nonsurgical facial aesthetics and skin rejuvenation. Dr. Patel is committed to innovation, excellence, high quality patient care and the advancement of the field of facial aesthetics. Call Dr. Patel to schedule your consultation at 786-618-5039 for top care from one of Miami's most talented injectors.
Patient Testimonial
Read What Our Patients Are Saying!
"The service by Dr. Patel and his staff (especially Gabby!!) was above and beyond. Patient care and comfort level was clearly their priority. At no point was I rushed or pressured in any way. I did not ever feel like they were making a sales pitch to me or that they just wanted my money. It’s clear Dr. Patel takes a lot of pride in his work and reputation. I will come here for all injectables going forward. THANK YOU to everyone in the office."
Sculptra Treatment Tips
- A few days after treatment, the post treatment swelling will have resolved and your face will look as it did before treatment. This is normal and temporary. Over the next couple of weeks, your body will slowly begin to produce collagen. It’s important to remember that Sculptra works over weeks to months to gradually replace lost collagen.
- You should start seeing results after the first few treatment sessions.
- Most patients require multiple treatments with Sculptra for optimal results. On average patients need 3 treatment sessions with each spaced 1 month apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does Sculptra Cost?
At Miami Skin & Vein, we provide a comprehensive pricing page so that you can get an idea of what your treatment may cost. The price of Sculptra is $850 per vial. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that your treatment session will cost $850.
The exact cost of your treatment will vary depending on the amount of product that Dr. Patel uses, and the areas that you want to address. Dr. Patel will be able to give you a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Since Sculptra lasts longer than many other types of filler, it’s a cost-friendly option. And it doesn’t have the high price tag of a surgical procedure like a facelift.
How Safe Is Sculptra?
Sculptra is considered a safe way to restore lost facial volume and treat visible signs of aging. It was approved by the FDA in 2004 and has been administered around the world since 1999. Sculptra is made of a synthetic material that is biocompatible and has been used for years in dissolvable stitches. It does not contain any components that would require prior allergy testing.
Is Sculptra Safe for All Skin Types?
Yes, Sculptra is generally considered safe for all skin types. However, it's important to consult with a qualified provider to assess your skin type and any potential sensitivities.
How Effective is Sculptra?
Sculptra is designed to create a natural-looking appearance with long-lasting results. Everyone’s body is different and may not have the same effects as others. However, most patients who receive Sculptra have results that last up to two years. To prolong your Sculptra results, you can increase your intake of vitamin E, refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol, and wear sunscreen while outdoors.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Many patients see optimal results from a series of three treatments spaced over the course of several months. However, every patient is different, and you may benefit from a different number of sessions. Additionally, the number of vials used in each session may vary, depending on the severity of your volume deficit and your customized plan created by Dr. Patel.
How Often Should You Get Sculptra?
How often you should get Sculptra depends on how long your results last. In most cases, patients do not need to receive Sculptra again after two years. However, if you notice that your results are fading faster than usual, you can have annual treatments to maintain your results.
Is Sculptra Permanent?
Sculptra is not permanent. However, the results can last up to two years or more, depending on individual factors and the area treated.
Can I Wear Makeup After My Treatment?
Since Dr. Patel asks that you don’t wear makeup to your treatment, you may be wondering if you can apply it right after you leave. The answer is no, you need to wait for four hours. After that time, you can apply your products as you normally would.
Can You Lay Down After a Sculptra Session?
There are some injectables that work best if you stay upright after treatment. Sculptra is not one of them. You can lay down right after your session without worrying about hurting your results.
Is Swelling Normal After Sculptra?
You may experience some temporary swelling and bruising after your Sculptra treatment. These mild side effects are associated with all injectable treatments.
You can minimize swelling by applying a cold compress to the treatment area for 10 minutes. If you can, try to repeat this several times an hour for the first 12-24 hours. Swelling typically resolves after several days.
Do I Need to Massage the Injection Site?
After receiving Sculptra injections, you will need to massage the treatment site. Self-massage helps evenly distribute the product.
Dr. Patel recommends that you massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days after your session. Don’t worry if it feels slightly uncomfortable at first; just continue to massage the area as directed. Dr. Patel can show you the proper technique during your appointment.
What Causes Sculptra Nodules?
Sculptra nodules can form if the product is not properly mixed or injected or aftercare instructions are not followed. An uneven distribution of the product usually causes these small lumps. To minimize the risk, it's crucial to choose an experienced provider, like Dr. Patel, and to massage the treated area as recommended after the procedure.
Can Sculptra Be Dissolved?
Sculptra cannot be dissolved. However, massage or steroid injections can treat most Sculptra nodules or other minor complications.
Can people with HIV get Sculptra?
Yes, people with HIV can get Sculptra. In fact, Sculptra was initially FDA-approved to treat lipoatrophy (facial fat loss) in people with HIV. It helps restore facial volume and improve appearance, which can significantly benefit those experiencing this condition.
Maximize Your Results By Combining Treatments
Patients often ask, “Can Sculptra be used with other fillers?” The answer is yes, it can! While the use of a single injectable product like Sculptra could produce your desired results, you may experience the most significant benefit from a combination of treatments.
In fact, Sculptra injections can be performed in conjunction with most of our rejuvenation treatments, though some services will require separate appointments. For example, you may want to use Sculptra to address volume loss around the mouth and a lip filler like Restylane to enhance your pout. Or maybe you want to supplement your Sculptra injections with a chemical peel or a microneedling session.
Dr. Patel is dedicated to helping you achieve your cosmetic goals without surgery. He will create a customized treatment plan just for you. Often, there is another service that could put the finishing touch on your Sculptra treatment and enhance your results.
Choose Dr. Patel For Your Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments
You have a lot of options when it comes to choosing a provider for non-surgical treatments like injectables. It’s important to make a careful decision because the skill of your injector significantly impacts your cosmetic outcome and the safety of your treatment.
Dr. Patel is one of Miami’s most talented injectors. He has been recognized as a Platinum Level provider by Allergan, the makers of BOTOX® and other popular products. He has also been recognized as a Presidential Level Injector by Galderma, the makers of Sculptra!
Dr. Patel is a national trainer for Galderma. This means that he actually helps other physicians learn how to use the company’s popular fillers and wrinkle-relaxers!
Make A Sculptra Appointment At Miami Skin And Vein!
Dr. Patel is experienced in injectable treatments and is here to help you look and feel more youthful. Dr. Patel’s practice is equipped with Sculptra and many other cosmetic injectables that in many cases may eliminate the need for plastic surgery.
Schedule your initial consultation by calling 786-618-5039 today. You can also click here to send us an Appointment Request Form, and our staff will help you set up your consult. At Miami Skin & Vein, we serve Miami, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, and local communities in Florida.