How Many Vials of Sculptra to Obtain Results Like Initial Swelling?

Question

I really liked the results I had attained from the swelling of my first session of Sculptra. But now, after three vials, I am still left waiting to see those same results. I read that it takes approximately five vials of Sculptra to achieve the same effect as obtained from the initial swelling form the Sculptra and Lidocaine. Yet, a physician told me that each particular session of Sculptra should produce the results obtained from the swelling of that particular session. Which is the case? Will I need more sessions or should I wait it out?

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is very hard to predict the eventual result. It depends on the dilution used by your physician. If it is a 10ml dilution, then you could expect around 6 sessions with one vial each to give you that final result.
Please remember that is an estimate and individuals can vary to get that result between 3 to 10 sessions.
Regards

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Depending on your age and facial contour , the number of vials of Sculptra can be estimated but it is not an exact formula for everyone to predict the # of vials per decade.  You can expect  to see results at 8 and 12 weeks.  It works best to plan 2-3  treatments , starting with  2 vials  and  treating again each month for 2-4 months . The results are gradual but long-lasting!

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

Without seeing you in person, it is difficult to know how much you will need.  Everyone is different.  I recommend that you see a board certified plastic surgeon for evaluation.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

I have not found that postoperative swelling correlates with the amount of collagen that is produced by Sculptra. The swelling that is immediate is partly caused by the water and anesthetic that is mixed with the Sculptra and different physicians add different amounts of fluid in the Sculptra so the intial swelling can be different with the same number of vials of the product. Many patients who do not see significant improvement do see volume increasing after the third treatment and it can take a couple of months after the last treatment to be evident. If six to nine months have gone by after the last treatment and you wish to have more volume, then it would be time to repeat the treatment or try a different filler or fat injections.

John S. Lee, MD · Answer

I don't think there is a magic number such as 5 vials. This is because everyone reacts and metabolizes the material differently and swells differently. I would recommend waiting and observing for now.

How Many Vials of Sculptra to Obtain Results Like Initial Swelling?

Answers (8)