Why is Sculptra So Expensive?

Question

Sculptra is advertised from medical supply companies at about US$700 for two vials. A dermatologist charges $2000-$2500 to inject two vials which takes him maybe 30-45 minutes.Some doctors even try to talk you into letting their assistants do the injections. Say a doctor charges $2,300 for 2 vials which cost him $700, so he is paid more than $1,600 for less than an hour's work.No wonder Dermatology was the most sought after residency last year! However some very big companies are experimenting with mall based outlets and the party will be over for the Dermatologists.

Anil Rajani, MD · Answer

The cost of Sculptra varies but averages $750 to $1000 per vial depending on how many vials you need. In essence you are not purchasing a “vial” but rather the skilled administration of properly mixed product based on the depth and concentration where it is placed. It is important to understand most clients are really interested in a  "result" or an "aesthetic appearance" that is safely administered with state of the art technology. This is achieved by placing specific product in an area and depth that makes it not only look good, but also lasting as long as possible. As an example, 5 syringes injected by one provider may achieve a differing result than one or two vials injected by another practitioner. Before any procedure, I would highly recommend asking about the experience and education of your aesthetic injector and establish a good rapport with your doctor.
For more information regarding your question, please see the video below. Good luck to you!Anil Rajani, MD

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Although you may be making a big investment in Sculptra, I believe 
Sculptra is one of the best long-term volumizers as it stimulates 
collagen and this newly formed collagen can last for years before 
breaking down.  That doesn't mean that you won't lose volume in your 
face during this time, because the aging process hasn't stopped.  The 
cost really is driven by how much you need.  Someone in their 20-30s may
 only need a vial or two and spend 800-1600 in our practice.  I would 
consider adding a vial or two for every decade of life thereafter in 
subsequent treatments.  Sculptra works well for perimeter volumizing and
 for softening any asymmetry that we may have in our face.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Fillers and other volumizers such as Sculptra require significant artisitc talent by the physician injecting the agent. Would you compare the cost of an original oil painting by a master artist with the total costs of the paint and canvas used in producing the end result? There is a need of understanding the anatomy of the subject which does not come from a cosmetic course but years of medical study. Sculptra can have nodules develop and to some extent this is technique-dependent. Continued studies are important for the physician to utilize in delivering the best result to their patients. The dilution of the Sculptra, the size of the needle, the depth of insertion, the massage, the appreciation for the three dimensionality of the facial contours and the secondary lifting of other areas by supporting primary areas are some of the important concepts than must be learned by the physician injecting the Sculptra. You are paying for the service and the art more than the product. With good luck the cost of the service may continue to decline.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

I can certainly sense your frustration with the cost issues of Sculptra. I will give you my philosophy.
I inject Sculptra myself to all patients.
I charge $800 for a vial of Sculptra. I spend about 30minutes with the patient.
I charge $600 for Juvederm but that lasts only six months or so. I charge $800 for a syringe of Radiesse.
I find Sculptra to be very rewarding for the patient as it is natural and long lasting (two to three years) 
However the risks of improper injection are great. The lumps and large nodules can be quite disfiguring. You should chose the doctor very carefully.
I would advise you to consult with a few different physicians who inject Sculptra and then go ahead with the one you feel most comfortable with.
On a side note; I am a facial plastic surgeon and I can tell you that most physicians including dermatologists truly care about their patients and are not out to get your money. 
Smile, it can make one look a lot prettier than Sculptra can.
Regards

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

So let's see, one vial is $350. Than the mixture with saline/water/lidocaine is $50. Plus the syringes, needles, alcohol, gauze, needles, etc supplies add another $50. Than we cannot forget about the overhead as rent, electric, water, phones, employees, insurances, equalling $150.

	So the total out of pocket is around $600/ vial. Than the MD fee is between $400 to $600. Thus, the total expense to the patient is $2,000 to $2,400. Seems fair, but if you can find a qualified injector for less than go right ahead.

	Remember, it takes 3 to 4 sessions every three weeks to obtain a chance of improvement. Plan on spending $4 to $6 K.

	Go ask the manufacturer to lower their fees, please!

	Regards and good hunting

Why is Sculptra So Expensive?

Answers (5)