I Have Had 1 Vial of Sculptra in my Cheeks and Now I Look Like I Have Chipmunk with Eyebags?

Question

I have had 1 vial of sculptra into my cheeks and folds from my mouth to nose and now I look like a chipmonk when I smile a small lump is also appearing and I look so tired as sort of swelling have appeared under my eyes like eye bags and I feel like my sinuses have been affected please help I am so anxious

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Short time swelling is not uncommon.  The key is to follow up with your Doctor and be certain they re managing your recovery. Swelling may put pressure on the sinuses which will be relieved once the edema subsides. I hope this helps!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Hello, and sorry to hear about the side effects you are experiencing. In general, the side effects of Sculptra may include the following:

	1) Lumps, or "nodules."
	2) Redness or swelling at the injection site
	3) Bruising
	4) Itching

	How long ago was your treatment? It sounds like you are experiencing some significant swelling following your procedure. If the Sculptra was injected close to your eyes, you may have some swelling in that area. The Sculptra will not affect your sinuses, and this may be due to something different. I would recommend following up with your provider as soon as possible, as they may be able to provide you with some advice. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

Depending on the severity of volume depletion, on average 4-6 vials of Sculptra are injected globally in the face for additional collagenosis.  The use of one vial (half on each side) usually stimulates minimal collagen but if you weren't too depleted pre-injection, may be you did not require additional treatments.  Other variables include the dilution used and placement of product.  Although I have not reviewed your pictures, you may want to get another opinion from a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist.  It is possible that by adding volume in your high lateral cheeks (if volume deficient), the skin may be supported more in the upper face and take your face away from the nasal labial fold area.  It is normal to have nasal labial folds and I do not advise total elimination of this natural facial landmark.

	Thank you

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

If you recently had Sculptra treatment, it is normal to have some swelling that will resolve.  It is recommended to massage the treated areas as often as possible, 5 times a day for 5 minutes each time over the next 5 days.  If there are any concerns, please follow-up with your physician.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

After treatment with Sculptra, it's normal to have swelling temporarily which will subside over the first week.  It's important to massage the treated areas in a circular motion for 5 minutes, 5 times/day for 5 days afterwards to distribute the product evenly and to reduce the chance of developing a nodule.  Sculptra will not have had any effect on your sinuses.  Don't hesitate to follow up with your physician for any concerns.

I Have Had 1 Vial of Sculptra in my Cheeks and Now I Look Like I Have Chipmunk with Eyebags?

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Answer: Temporary swelling after treatment with Sculptra

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I Have Had 1 Vial of Sculptra in my Cheeks and Now I Look Like I Have Chipmunk with Eyebags?

Answers (8)

Answer: Sculptra

Answer: Sculptra

Answer: Temporary swelling after treatment with Sculptra

Answer: Temporary swelling after treatment with Sculptra

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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.