Sculptra® is an injectable material used to replenish loss of skin “volume” due to conditions such as lipoatrophy, aging and acne scarring. Sculptra® was approved by the FDA in July 2004 for lipoatrophy associated with HIV treatment but it has been used successfully in Europe for other cosmetic indications for several years. Sculptra® is made from microparticles of poly-L-lactic acid, the same material used safely and successfully in absorbable Vicryl sutures for many years.

Unlike other filler agents such as collagen or Restylane® which focus on individual folds or wrinkles, Sculptra® is used to address larger areas of volume loss. In so doing, folds, wrinkles and depressions within these areas can be improved dramatically. Sculptra usually requires a series of three to five injections spaced approximately one month apart. The initial improvement immediately following treatment is due to water only and fades quickly. Then, over the course of one to two months, your own body produces collagen in the treatment areas resulting in volume correction. One must be patient because correction is slow to appear but is very long lasting. Sculptra® lasts for two years or longer. Some patients may require touch-up treatment during this time if the aging process or lipoatrophy progresses significantly.

Treatment Effects Seen with Sculptra®

Dr. Ramsdell is one of an elite group of physicians chosen to train in Europe and introduce Sculptra® procedures in the U.S. He now shares his expertise as a lecturer and trainer as well as an experienced practitioner.