In my early 40s. No other health issues, except I have Psoriasis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Can I safely get Sculptra injections?

Dear 42goingon35, this is a very interesting question and the short answer is that there have not yet been any large, well-controlled studies published in the academic literature addressing your specific concerns. Therefore, all we can do is hypothesize based on what we know of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Sculptra. Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis are considered “autoinflammatory” conditions, meaning that patients with these conditions are more prone to develop inflammatory responses against their own bodies. Sculptra is a biostimulatory filler that functions by triggering a very small inflammatory response in the skin that eventually results in new collagen synthesis. Therefore, since Sculptra does trigger a very small inflammatory response, there may be a theoretical increased risk with its usage in the setting of a pre-existing autoinflammatory condition. Conversely, anti-inflammatory medications such as Stelara and Otezla are not likely to increase the risk but may decrease the efficacy of the treatment. All that being said, my opinion is that the risks with Sculptra will still be minimal and that you would likely still be able to enjoy this product, assuming that you are a good candidate for the treatment itself. Good luck!

Sculptra injections can dramatically improve fine and deep wrinkles on the face. In my practice, I continue to see very positive results. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

You definitely don't want to use sculptra if you are having a Psoriasis outbreak and frankly, it's probably not a good idea to use it with the arthritis. I would suggest that you speak with your surgeon about another filler that isn't collagen stimulating. Best, Dr. Nazarian

There are no published studies stating whether Sculptra has any effect on autoimmune disorders.  However, in my practice, I only treat patients that have autoimmune disorders with Hyaluronic acid fillers to be safe. Also, I ask my Sculptra patients to take caution with anti-inflammatory medications as it could interfere with the inflammatory process that Sculptra requires to be a successful treatment.  Sculptra is an amazing treatment for pan-facial volumization for the right candidates. Meet with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to discuss your options further.

Treatment with Sculptra should be postponed if
the patient is having an active psoriasis outbreak in the areas to be injected.

I do not use any collagen stimulating injectable in patients with any connective tissue disorder.  Although there are virtually no reports or studies on the safety, it just doesn't make sense to do this.  Hyaluronics are the only product I will use in such patients, and even here I just do not encourage high volumes to be used and ask these patients to keep a balanced perspective on what we are trying to achieve relative to their other medical conditions.