How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc? (photo)

Question

I am starting to research options. I have had 4 Forever BBL's and microdermabrasuons in the past. I am 54 yo and use sunscreen and retin-a.

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD · Answer

Sculptra is an exquisite global volumizer and can be used in nearly all areas of the face (but not all). Likely, if you were to address the entire face, you would receive a combination of injectables to achieve the end results you are looking for.At your age, you are beginning to see the effects of not only collagen loss and fat loss, but also soft tissue and bony support loss. The facial contours reflect tissue volume and skeletal shape. The changes we all experience require a full face approach instead of a single filler placed "here and there".Sculptra does take longer to see the outcome and some patients opt for some temporary fillers to have more immediate improvements - while waiting for the collagen building from Sculptra. Some areas are only safely addressed with fillers and those placed very carefully to avoid lumps or problems with facial movement.Voluma is a very nice hyaluronic gel that can give you instant cheekbones, but like any filler, adequate amounts are needed to replace lost volume. The fact that Voluma has proven to last around 2 years is a big plus for many patients.To get the best and most natural looking results, it is likely your physician will use a combination of products - and then provide continued touchups later on as needed to maintain. With today's fillers and Sculptra, you can look very pretty and quite youthful for many years.You are doing the right things with maintaining your skin with light treatments, sunscreen and retinoids. That's a smart program to stay on.

Timothy R. Miller, MD · Answer

Thank you for the photographs, and based on an initial assessment volume augmentation using either of these two products would be helpful. Both Sculptra and Voluma are excellent products that can last 2 or more years. You may also consider fat augmentation.One of the benefits of Voluma is the results are fairly immediate, whereas Sculptra will take months to see the final results and usually requires a series of treatments.  The slower progression with Sculptra is a potential benefit for those not wanting friends, family, or co-workers to notice that you are having anything done.For temple hollowing Voluma, in my experience, offers more robust filling than Sculptra which may be very beneficial in this circumstance. I hope this helps.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Bosak.  It's not necessarily a choice of one over the other, but each has pros and cons.  We would lean toward Radiesse or Sculptra for you.  Sculptra is an excellent product that is very natural, but the results are slow to see and there is a much larger upfront investment (9 months for full results with an investment of approximately $2500 - $3500 over 6 months).  The results are based on the formation of your body's own collagen and they can last up to 2 years or more.Radiesse results are seen right away.  It is a cheaper product than Sculptra and results last about 1 year.  Probably $1200 investment up front (possibly $1800) and then repeat after 12 months.So, depending on your budget, whether or not you want your body's own natural collagen, how long you want it to last and whether or not you need immediate results would determine which product we choose for you.

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

Voluma is
specifically formulated to correct volume loss and enhance contour to the mid
cheek area creating a more youthful appearance. Voluma instantly provides a
smooth, natural-looking appearance to the cheek area that last up to 2 years with
optimal treatment.

Sculptra is
used to stimulate collagen production, helping to replenish volume loss.
Sculptra is the only volumizer scientifically designed to stimulate natural
collagen growth treating the underlying cause of facial aging. Benefits of
Sculptra last up to 2 years with optimal treatment.

I often
inject both Voluma and Sculptra for my patients as they complement each other.
I usually inject Voluma in the mid cheek to lift and contour and Sculptra in
the cheek hollows to volumize.

It is best
to consult with a Board Certified Dermatologist to see which treatment(s) are
appropriate for you.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

I would recommend Juvederm's VOLUMA over Sculptra in your case. In fact 4 syringes would be best in my over the internet opinion....

How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Treatment with Voluma and Sculptra

Answer: Treatment with Voluma and Sculptra

Answer: How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc?

Answer: How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc?

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How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Treatment with Voluma and Sculptra

Answer: Treatment with Voluma and Sculptra

Answer: How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc?

Answer: How can I tell if Sculptra would be better for me than fillers like voluma, etc?

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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.