Possible PLLA allergy - Should I be concerned about moving forward with Sculptra?

Question

I’m a 42 year old female. I’ve never had fillers or any other facial cosmetic procedure. I had a labiaplasty and received dissolvable sutures. I had moderate swelling and extreme itching around the sutures and they didn’t dissolve, they had to be taken out. I did not develop an infection. I’m interested in sculptra but am concerned I may have a potential allergy to PLLA due to the extreme itching and swelling I had related to dissolvable sutures. I know some itching and swelling is normal but this seemed extreme until they were removed. Should I be concerned about moving forward with Sculptra?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns. The reaction you experienced to the dissolvable sutures may have been due to localized irritation or sensitivity to the material rather than a true allergy. Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which is also a biodegradable synthetic polymer, but it is not identical to the material used in absorbable sutures.

While some swelling and itching are expected after both sutures and injectable treatments, the intensity you described does raise an important consideration. A true allergy to PLLA is very rare, but prior reactions to dissolvable sutures may indicate a heightened sensitivity.

Before moving forward with Sculptra, it would be advisable to discuss your history with your treating provider. They may consider a careful review of your reaction, a possible patch test, or alternative treatment options to ensure your safety and comfort.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

Number one, we don’t know what type of sutures were used in your surgical procedure. Number two, itching in the area of surgery, usually implies healing, not necessarily an allergy. Sculptra which I have been using for nearly 30 years is a great product as long as it’s injected with a proper technique and in the proper place. If you’re referring to the face, I would consider having fat grafting. In the right hands, the results are natural and permanent. I hope this helps a good luck from Leonard Grossman, MD, organic Plastic Surgery, New York City.

Possible PLLA allergy - Should I be concerned about moving forward with Sculptra?

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Possible PLLA allergy - Should I be concerned about moving forward with Sculptra?

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Everything you need to know about Sculptra

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.