34 Year Old with Loss of Volume in Cheeks. Would Sculptra be my best option? (photos)

Question

Attached photos are 3 years apart, with some weight loss. I used to have a much rounder face. I never loved the round face until it was gone and I was left with deflated cheeks with sagging in the nasolabial folds and jowl area. Also asymmetry: would more Sculptra injected on my left side even things out? I've also thought of fillers in the cheek to or lasers such as Fraxel to tighten the skin to lessen the sag. I want to avoid the obvious inflation/plastic surgery look. I would love any input!

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello, Sculptra is an excellent option but does take generally a series of treatment to reach optimal potential.  The results are gradual yet sustained over a longer period of time vs. traditional injection products.  At your young age, you would also benefit from a filler such as Restylane LYFT which would offer a more immediate result.  Both options have unique benefits vs. limitations with each.  When you ask which would be the best option, much depends on your budget as well as short and long-term goals.  A tailored treatment plan should be designed between you and your injector.  Lastly, we believe a filler option would offer a much more appreciable outcome vs. laser treatments as the condition is more related to volume loss which allows re-draping/heaviness of skin/tissue. See below link for before/after photos

Anil Rajani, MD · Answer

To address the jowling you are noticing in the lower region of your face and the general sagging you mentioned in the consult, using Sculptra is a great solution. As we age our face starts to fall naturally from bone, collagen, and fat loss. However, thanks to Sculptra we can help delay that process by replacing that natural fat loss that ages us. Sculptra is a collagen stimulator that provides natural looking results up to 5 years! Sculptra helps lift and tighten the skin with visible results that gradually take effect over months for a natural look. It is important to start the prevention of the aging process and Sculptra may be the perfect product for you! Sometimes to address symmetry we also add a hyaluronic acid filler which more precisely addresses symmetry.

I would highly recommend asking about the experience and education of your aesthetic injector and establish a good rapport with your doctor.

My best,

Dr. Rajani

I would highly recommend asking about the experience and education of your aesthetic injector and establish a good rapport with your doctor.

My best,

Dr. Rajani

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

There are multiple options for restoring volume to the face inclusing Sculptra, Voluma, Restylane Lift and Radiesse. I suggest you meet with several experienced injectors in your area to discuss the pros and cons. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

I would say that Sculptra is a good option to help restore the loss of volume in your face.  As there is some volume loss on both sides, I would recommend treating both the left and right sides but more can be used on the side with more loss to make the appearance more symmetric.  You most likely would need several treatments spaced over time to gradually give you the desired result.  I find that the results can last 2-4 years.

Kyle Coleman, MD · Answer

Sculptra is a great way to restore lost volume and youthful features.  In general, the tightening devices don't lift the mid cheek as much as the jawline.  Sculptra can be a great option on its own; however, best results are often with combination with spot treatment of other fillers such as juvederm and restylane.  Seek out an expert injector.  To understand their aesthetic, look around the office to see the staff and patients; if you see overinflated people, that's usually a sign.   Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There are a few great options. Well-placed fillers (Voluma, Radiesse, Bellafill): Sculptra, implants or fat can all be used to create facial fullness and volume. Lasers, microneedling/prp, radiofrequency and ultherapy can all be used for skin tightnening and improve texture and tone. I recommend getting a consultation with a facial contouring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photos. Based on your photos Sculptra might be a good option for you. Sculptra is best for larger areas when you desire a significant amount of added volume. It is mostly used for sunken cheeks. Unlike other injectable fillers, Sculptra is a volumizing filler that causes the body to produce new collagen. This means it takes longer to show results, but also that the results may last longer than other filler. Based on your photos, Sculptra might be a good option for you but I recommend getting an in-person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Sculptra is a great filler to add volume to the cheeks. I would treat both the left and right side. You will need several treatments to give you your desired look. Sculptra can last several years. I recommend having a consultation with an expert injector to determine the best treatments plan for you. Best of Luck!

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

Sculptra is an excellent choice for increasing volume in the face from weight loss. I would recommend finding a reputable provider for an in person evaluation.

Lisa Airan, MD · Answer

Thank you for providing photos.  Unfortunately weight loss can result in loss of volume in the face.  From the photos you have provided I can see that you are a good candidate for volume correction in the nasolabial folds and melolabial folds.  Hyaluronic acid fillers are an ideal option for correction in these aforementioned areas.  Sculptra can be injected to add volume to the temples, cheek and posterior jawline to add volume back to the frame of the face.  These subtle corrections will help you to restore a youthful look.  Best of luck.

34 Year Old with Loss of Volume in Cheeks. Would Sculptra be my best option? (photos)

Answers (12)