Sculptra - question of hematoma vs allergic reaction

Your assessment is valid. I would massage the area twice daily with Plato's Bruise Balm to help smooth out the bruise and possible hematoma. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

This sounds like they hit a nerve or cased bruising, if there is no residual issues then you are fine. I suggest cannula injections in the future to prevent any bruising or swelling.  Best, Dr. Emer.

The reaction that you describe from your Sculptra treatment does not sound as if it was an allergic reaction.  It is possible that a hematoma could have formed but difficult to know without an exam or photos.  

It may be a hematoma although a hematoma should not cause numbness. Where was this used? And you are right, an allergic reaction would not present in this way.

If it happened immediately, your assessment that it is a small hematoma is likely correct. Sculptra can produce granulomas...but these do not occur immediately...and we have learned a lot about technique and patient selection in avoiding this inherent risk of treatment.An allergy is characterized by hives (urticarial), itching, and redness.  This is certainly not part of your description.  The hematoma will resolve.  I like gentle massage to the site, and I still use massage with all my SCULTRA patients routinely.  I think it helps with bruising and gives the patient some control over the treated area.  It feels good, too. 

The immediate appearance of this tenderness, swelling and numbness is very suspicious for a hematoma.  This will stay firm for several days, and you may experience some uneven swelling for awhile, but rest assured that hematomas will go away.  They often leave a deep burnished discoloration for a month or more.  It is important in your case to ice a bit more frequently and be very gentle when massaging over this particular area of swelling.  Hematomas and bruising in general are less likely to occur when Sculptra is constantly being pushed out of the needle whenever the needle is moving.  This technique effectively pushes blood vessels out of the way when done in this manner.

It just has to be hematoma, swelling, not allergy. I haven't heard of allergies to Sculptra. It wouldn't be focal but global. I use cannulas which minimize swelling and bruising. I teach to other doctors Sculptra injections too. Also, having several other injections before, allergy is a remote possibility. I think Sculptra is a great volumizer and needed for most patients that are severely volume depleted.

Its hard to know without seeing the specifics of your case but it seems much more likely that you had a hematoma rather than an allergic reaction. There are ways to minimize bruising with advanced injections techniques. Make sure you are seeing a dermatologists or plastic surgeon who personally performs the procedure for the safest and best results.