Sculptra - what does it treat?

Sculptra is used much more for cosmetic reasons than for HIV and will likely soon gain FDA approval for cosmetic use.

Sculptra has been used with such great success that it is often called the "Liquid Face Lift". This non-invasive treatment corrects the deepest of creases and wrinkles with long-term results using a biodegradable material called "poly-L-lactic acid". Studies have shown that Sculptra's potency can even correct lipoatrophy, a condition that causes facial fat loss. Using numbing medication to minimize discomfort, Sculptra is injected using a fine needle. It works by stimulating collagen production in the skin and fills in what has been lost with age. Results are gradual and, depending on the level of improvement desired and the severity of the problem, anywhere between 3-5 monthly treatments may be needed. Once the desired look is achieved, this semi-permanent treatment appears to last greater than two years.

The best areas for Sculptra treatment are cheeks and jowls.

The worst areas for Sculptra treatment are the eyelids and tear trough areas.

Sculptra® is approved by the FDA for restoration and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) in people with human immunodeficiency virus. It is used "off label" in non-HIV patients. It is my preferred filler for patients like, as you describe, have lost fat in their face and either don't have any fat for transfer or would rather not undergo that procedure.

Fat wasting is mere loss of fat in the face or anywhere else for that matter this can occurs with aging. Sculptra® is a safe product that relies on your body's reaction to it to "fill". It also causes thickening of the skin. It is important to realize that it usually takes a couple of treatments to get to the desired result (which may take 3-6 months). Once the endpoint is reached, it may last up to 2 years.