Can Sculptra Be Used Between the Eyebrows in Place of Botox.?

Question

I have used Sculptra to fill the nasal labial area of my face as a treatment of lipoatrophy from the long term use of HAART therapy. i have been over the moon from my results and would like to use it i place of Botox for the creases between the eyebrows if it is a viable treatment option. not a fan of the "dead face" results from the paralysing of the muscles.

Babak Azizzadeh, MD · Answer

No, Sculptra is NOT a substitute for Botox. It is a completely different injectable and works in a different way. Only Dysport or Botox will work between the eyebrows to relax the muscles and reduce the lines/wrinkles.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Sculptra should not be used between the eyebrows as there is a risk of large particles causing obstruction of blood flow and development of a skin ulceration and scarring of a wide area of the forehead. Restylane and Juvederm Ultra are used in this location.

Grant Stevens, MD · Answer

Sculptra is NOT a 'muscle relaxer' nor a 'filler'.  Sculptra is a 'volumizer' with multiple treatments needed to optain optimal results.  It is optimally used for lipoatrophy in the face.  It has amazing results when used correctly and in the appropriate patients.  If you already have a indent/crease in between your eyebrows due to years of scowling and being very expressive your best option, and safest option, is to have a Hyaluronic Acid (Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane) placed in the crease very carefully by a skilled injector.  In addition, it is highly recommended to also have a small amount of Botox or Dysport injected in the local mucsles to help soften the muscle strength and movement that is causing your eyebrows to move together and cause that permanent crease at rest.  You should not have to experience a "dead face" when a skilled provider is using the correct products. 

	I have my Physician Assistants treat me with Botox/Dysport and various fillers to enhance my youth regularly.  I am always complimented on  how "natural" I look.  Especially when I am lecturing all over the world to other physicians.   The key is to have experienced providers treating you... so fear not.  Botox/Dysport/Sculptra/ and all other fillers have their purpose and if used correctly, you will feel happy, and look beautiful.

	Hope this helps.  Good luck!

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

As other plastic surgeons and dermatologists have already mentioned, Sculptra must be avoided in the eyebrow or eye areas. Sculptra is great for its intended use in the cheek and midface areas, especially for lipoatrophy or volume loss with facial aging. However, Sculptra has not been FDA approved in the eyes or eyebrows. Complications may occur. Better alternative are hyaluronic acids, such as Restylane or Juvederm to add volume to furrows, creases, and wrinkles between the eyebrow, in addition to Botox Cosmetic to help relax the muscles in the area. Only after a comprehensive evaluation can a specialist help determine appropriate options for you.

Richard Sadove, MD · Answer

3131959anon in Australia

	You should know that over a decade ago, the only "filler" we had at the time, Collagen, was reported to cause dead skin on occasion when injected between the eyebrows. Any filler material you have injected here increases your risk for trouble. It is not a matter of Sculptra vs Restylane or Juvederm.

	Botox is the safest choice. Your fear of the "dead face" is exaggerated as long as the Botox is used properly. Stay safe.

Can Sculptra Be Used Between the Eyebrows in Place of Botox.?

Answers (8)