Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable made of poly-L-lactic acid. It works by stimulating your skin to produce more collagen – one of the main building blocks of healthy, elastic skin. The new collagen strands then create a supportive matrix for the skin, making it firmer and thicker. The results can begin to appear within a couple of weeks. Generally, treatments are once a month and 3 – 6 sessions are needed, as the volume gradually builds to the desired result. This gradual result allows the patient to choose how full they wish to be. For example, you could stop at two treatments if you feel full enough. The first few days after Sculptra, the face looks full because of the watery solution containing the PLLA particles. Then the second week, the water is absorbed and little result is seen. After one month, one begins to see the result, just as it’s time for the second session. I would say that most patients will not appreciate what Sculptra can truly accomplish with just one treatment, but after two sessions it really starts to look good. Fortunately, one can get a preview of the result immediately after treatment due to the watery solution that gives that temporary immediate full effect. Typically, after 3 monthly sessions, I wait 2-3 months before seeing if more is needed as there will still be improvement over the next 4 – 8 weeks. The benefits have been shown to last up to two years, but I have seen patients continue to look great for longer than that. If you want something more immediate, you can layer another product such as Voluma on top of the Sculptra. This can create a very natural looking volume and is especially beautiful when sculpting new cheekbones or other facial curves. Please find a board-certified dermatologist who has experience as a Sculptra injector to help you.