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

Question

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease and I have read several posts on RealSelf where doctors have urged anyone with an autoimmune disease to steer clear of Sculptra (although the posts seem to refer to diseases such as Lupus, instead of Psoriasis). I current take Otezla and Meloxicam. My dermatologist is considering taking me off of the Otezla and starting me on an injectable biologics drug, such as Stelara. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Douglas Wu, MD · Answer

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!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

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

Laurie A. Casas, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Lisa Airan, MD · Answer

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

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Sculptra and Autoimmune Disorders

Answer: Sculptra and Autoimmune Disorders

Answer: Sculptra and Psoriasis

Answer: Sculptra and Psoriasis

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Everything you need to know about Sculptra

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Sculptra and Autoimmune Disorders

Answer: Sculptra and Autoimmune Disorders

Answer: Sculptra and Psoriasis

Answer: Sculptra and Psoriasis

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Sculptra

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