How many treatments of Sculptra are needed?

I was told by the doctor who injected me that this product would work with my natural collagen, and when injected, after 3 to 6 weeks it would cause the reaction of 'new collagen' to form! I was also advised that one treatment (2 viles) would do the trick at the cost of $3000, a once in a decade gift I was giving myself, and No Results, or so slight they were only noticed by the doctor who injected. The problem I was told, was that he under-estimated the number of treatments needed.

My question finally, is there a way, by looking at a patient, a doctor can accurately tell a potential patient, how many treatments are needed?

2 answers to “How many treatments of Sculptra are...”

A: Estimating the number of Sculptra treatments

Matthew Schulman, MD

I have been using Sculptra since it was first introduced to this country in 2004 and have publsihed several articles on the subject.  In my experience, 1 treatment is never adequate. Most people with mild to moderate facial wasting require 1-2 vials per treatment, and a total of 3 sessions.  More... more

A: Product selection is critical to success.

Mary Lupo, MD

In general, Sculptra is best for patients with very thin faces who have little facial fat. It is a very good product to soften the gaunt, tired expression of this type of patient. The results are very gradual and can take up to 6 months to be appreciated. Once achieved, the results last for years. I was on the... more

Comments

Michelle P
91 posts
30 Oct 2008

Thank you for answering. Six viles at his mds rate of $1500 per vile would come out to $9000. Makes me wonder if the md would rather underestimate the amount needed at his prices. What working woman, even if she is still working these days, would plunk down 9K. Guess it was better for him to make 3K. Than nothing. This is so wrong.

Gail M Humble MD
17 posts
6 Nov 2008

Yes there is a classicly suitable patient for Sculptra. This is a patient that need a revolumization of the face or other areas. The amount of treatmnets required depends on the degree of volume loss and of course your age as collagen production is reduced as one ages. I have been working with Sculptra for many years. The price you were charged is quite steep for two vials. Please be patient. The results of the increase in transcutaneous thickness that occurs with Sculptra takes 6 months to a year. We did the original FDA studies and many follow up studies. In all the results last much longer than two year. Gail Humble MD

Marcio
1 post
18 Apr 2009

I have a feeling some doctors split your vials with other patients and charge you for a full vial. In my case I have very little facial wasting and I have been told I would need one or two maximum applications. I am going to my fourth application and i have seen very little results. Since my insurance pays for my sculptra I think the dermatologist is taking advantage of the situation.

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