Is Sculptra the right procedure for me? (Photo)

Question

I am 30 years old and I have been struggling with a mid cheek groove and nasolabial folds. I would like to know if Sculptra could help me with those issues or If I should consider fillers instead. Thank you

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Unfortunately fillers do not usually work when dealing with malar festoons.  Usually the better correction involves a lower lid blepharoplasty.  For the nasolabial folds, a midface or cheek lift would be indicated.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Choosing the right cosmetic procedure depends on various factors, including your specific aesthetic goals, skin type, and the nature of the issues you're trying to address. Here's some information that might help you decide between Sculptra and other fillers:

### Sculptra
**What is it?**
- Sculptra is an injectable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) that stimulates collagen production in the skin, gradually restoring volume and improving the appearance of wrinkles and folds over time.

**How it works:**
- Sculptra works by encouraging your body to produce its own collagen, resulting in a more natural look. The effects develop gradually over a few months.

**Duration:**
- Results from Sculptra can last up to two years or more, as it promotes collagen growth.

**Ideal for:**
- Individuals looking for a gradual improvement in skin texture and volume.
- Those who prefer long-lasting, natural-looking results.
- Suitable for deep facial wrinkles, folds, and sunken areas.

### Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane)
**What are they?**
- These are gel-like substances made of hyaluronic acid (a naturally occurring substance in the skin) that add volume and smooth out wrinkles and folds immediately after injection.

**How they work:**
- They provide immediate volume to the treated areas and can be used to fill in wrinkles, folds, and add contour to facial features.

**Duration:**
- Results typically last between 6 months to 1 year, depending on the specific product used and individual factors.

**Ideal for:**
- Individuals looking for immediate results.
- Those who may want to adjust or reverse the treatment, as hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.
- Suitable for treating nasolabial folds and mid-cheek grooves.

### Decision Factors:
1. **Desired Results Timeline:**
   - If you prefer a gradual improvement, Sculptra might be the better option.
   - If you want immediate results, hyaluronic acid fillers could be more suitable.

2. **Longevity:**
   - Sculptra offers longer-lasting results compared to most hyaluronic acid fillers.

3. **Adjustability:**
   - Hyaluronic acid fillers can be adjusted or dissolved if you are not satisfied with the results, offering more flexibility.

4. **Natural Look:**
   - Sculptra tends to provide a more natural look as it stimulates your own collagen production over time.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the right procedure for you is to have a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They can assess your skin, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable treatment based on your specific needs.

Both Sculptra and hyaluronic acid fillers can effectively address mid-cheek grooves and nasolabial folds. Your choice depends on whether you prefer immediate results or a more gradual, long-lasting improvement. Consulting with a specialist will provide you with personalized advice and help you make an informed decision.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

It's beneficial to see a side view, but, you do have some hollowness in your midface from what I can see.  It is certainly possible that a cheek filler, such as sculptra, can help improve that. A cheek implant can also be done.

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; In your Malar, Medial cheek, Tear Through areas; there is volume loss and related with this, there is sagging and nasolabial sulcus formation; which are located in the cheeks. I do not recommend for such treatment; with a single dermal filler for people; with your type of complaint. In order to eliminate for the volume loss in the tear through and medial cheek fields; I advise for fillers with a lifting affect on the bone plan. (Example: Maili Extrem, Restylane Defyne or Lyft) If these areas are filled sufficiently; Nasolabial sulcus will also be corrected. For sagging in the cheeks; I recommend for PLA (Sculptra or Lanluma) injection. This material; increases for the production of collagen; under the skin and creates for tightening in the cheeks; as a natural way.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

The photographs that you have submitted for some reason show that you may have been treated with hyaluronic acid fillers in the past. Those products produce bags in the lower eyelid area as well as the Tyndall effect. If that is the case, I would recommend having all of the hyaluronic acid removed and follow up with grafting. In the right hand grafting produces amazing results which are natural and permanent. I hope this helps and good luck from Leonard Grossman MD organic Plastic

Is Sculptra the right procedure for me? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Solutions with Relevant Examples

Answer: Solutions with Relevant Examples

Answer: Treating cheek grooves

Answer: Treating cheek grooves

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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.

Is Sculptra the right procedure for me? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Solutions with Relevant Examples

Answer: Solutions with Relevant Examples

Answer: Treating cheek grooves

Answer: Treating cheek grooves

Browse related questions

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.