How long has Sculptra been around and what can be expected? Is it a smart choice?

Sculptra has been around for nearly 20 years.  It was initially introduced for treatment of HIV patients with lipoatrphy - the gaunt look from fat wasting that can be particularly pronounced in patients with HIV.  It later developed cosmetic application to increase fullness.  Sculptra is said to be a collagen stimulator.  Once it is injected, there is often initial swelling that will disappear in a few days.  Over the following 6 weeks it stimulates collagen synthesis in the regions it was deposited.   As with any injectable product, there is a risk of allergic reaction.  If you are concerned about this - it may be reasonable to have your doctor do a small test injection first before a full treatment.  If you've already been treated and like the result -it is unlikely that you will develop a new allergy to the product in the future.  There has been reported complications with granulomas and bumpiness.  In my experience, this is extremely rare if the product is injected correctly, not deposited in large aliquots, and correctly massaged after it is injected.  

Sculptra has many of the same risks as other types of fillers like bruising, swelling, infection, and contour irregularities. Nodule and granuloma formation are also known risks of Sculptra, but with newer recommendations for injection techniques, reconstitution instructions, and post-injection care, these are very rare. I have not personally seen nodule or granuloma formation with Sculptra.
In my experience, Sculptra works best in a younger or middle-aged patient with general volume loss in broad areas such as the cheeks and temples.
All the best,

Sculptra has been around since 1999, that is 18 years now and there is plenty of data to prove it's effectivess, safety and side effect profile.  Over this time, many things have changed and improved, particularly the fact that it has to be prepared minimum 2-3 days in advance and the way it should be injected is different.  Before it was more about adding a lot of product in one spot and now it's more about evenly spreading the product. I use cannula injection technique and it is very very comfortable for the patient and safely avoids any potential of hitting an artery or a vein.  The patient also needs to be educated properly as this filler has some homework to go home with. Patients are instructed to massage the face for 5 minutes, 5 times a day for 5 days, this massaging rule has significantly decreased the formation of potential nodules. You really need to find an expert physician who is very familiar with the product and knows how to manage complications.  Product is being completely removed from your body over 2-5 years.  Hope this helps. Best, Dr.Avaliani