How Can We Be Sure That 1 Vial of Sculptra is Being Injected?

Sculptra comes as a powder in a vial. You might probably be billed based on the number of vials used. It is usually one or two. The powder must be mixed with both sterile water and a local anesthetic. There has been a trend to increase the amount of fluids used to mix the powder to decrease the concentration of the Sculptra to avoid nodule (bump) formation. A physician could get 5 or 10 ccs of this solution from one vial.  Ask your physician how many vials were used. Sometimes there might be more on one cheek than the other to create symmetry if there was an unbalanced volume noted preoperatively.

It is absolutely reasonable and appropriate to dilute Sculptra with water and with local anesthetic to decrease the frequency of lumps.  I generally do this at least 24 hours in advance of the time of the patient’s appointment.  I have never been asked but I doubt that I would allow a patient to watch me do this.  If there is so little trust on the patient’s part, I agree with an earlier responder that it would be better for the patient to go elsewhere for this filler.

You are right, that it is impossible to know if your docotr is really injecting the product, or amount that you paid for.  This is why you chose a board certified plastic surgeon and ASPS member. They are obligated to adhere to the standards and ethics set forthby the society.  Some unscruptulous doctors may over dilute botox or sculptra or inject less volume than they say they are. There has to be some level of trust in your doctor. Also, if the price seems too low compared to market value, then there is a good chance that the product is over diluted or you are not getting the adequate dose. When I see Botox advertised for $150 per area, I am always a little suspicious.