| Category Name | Content |
| Name | Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Biostimulatory Filler) |
| Uses | FDA-approved for treating volume loss in the face due to aging or lipoatrophy. Off-label uses include buttock augmentation, skin tightening, and décolletage treatment. |
| Route of Administration | Deep subdermal or supraperiosteal injection. |
| Frequency of Use | Administered in a series of treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Full results develop over 3-6 months. Effects last up to 2 years. |
| Concentration(s) | 150 mg Poly-L-Lactic Acid per vial, reconstituted with sterile water. |
| Maximum Dosage | Max 2 vials per session. Max 6 vials over a 6-month period. |
| Contraindications | • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy. • Allergy to Poly-L-Lactic Acid or any of the components. • History of severe allergies, anaphylaxis, or autoimmune conditions. • Active skin infections, acne, or inflammation in the treatment area. • History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring. • Use of blood thinners or immunosuppressive medications. • Patients under 18 years old (per FDA approval). |
| Possible Side Effects | • Common: Swelling, bruising, tenderness, redness at injection sites. • Rare: Nodules, granulomas, uneven correction, delayed hypersensitivity reactions. • Severe: Anaphylaxis, vascular occlusion, tissue fibrosis requiring medical intervention. |
| Compatibility With Other Treatments/Drugs | • Safe with: Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport), most dermal fillers. • Avoid with: Recent laser treatments, chemical peels, or other deep dermal fillers in the same treatment area. |
| Allergies | Patients allergic to Poly-L-Lactic Acid should not receive treatment. |
| Administration Time | Injection procedure takes approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and post-injection massage. |
| Dosing/Settings | • Recommended dilution: Reconstitute each vial with 8–10 mL of sterile water at least 24 hours before use. • Inject using a fanning or cross-hatching technique for even distribution. • Massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days post-treatment to prevent nodule formation. |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | • Vascular occlusion: Stop injection immediately, apply warm compress, massage area, refer to vascular specialist if needed. • Anaphylaxis: Administer epinephrine (0.3 mg IM), call 911, provide airway support. • Granulomas: Refer to dermatology for corticosteroid or 5-FU treatment. • Severe fibrosis: Refer to a specialist for ultrasound-guided intervention. |
| Additional Documentation Requirements | • Signed informed consent form. • Pre-treatment photos (frontal and side views). • Medical clearance if history of vascular complications, autoimmune disease, or recent oncology treatment. • Documentation of past filler treatments and allergy history. |
| Post-Treatment Care Instructions | • Follow the 5-5-5 massage rule: Massage for 5 minutes, 5 times daily, for 5 days. • Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and excessive sun exposure for 24 hours. • Expect gradual improvement over several months as collagen production increases. • Follow up in 6 weeks for reassessment and possible additional treatment. |