Will These Sculptra Lumps Be Permanent?

Question

I had 2 vials of Sculptura injected 5 weeks ago. I have developed a lump between the corner of my mouth and jawline (giving me a 'jowl' on that side) and 4 little lumps on the corner of my mouth and cheek. Does this mean I'll be prone to more lumps if I get more Sculptra? Is it likely that I'll develop lumps later? I'm also concerned that my face might not return to normal, and I'll end up permanently lopsided as time progresses.

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

The good thing about most injectable products is that they are not permanent, so most problems that occur will resolve on their own over time. This is true for Sculptra. Nodule or granuloma formation with Sculptra is possible, but the first thing to try for any nodularity after injectable treatments, including Sculptra, is some gentle massage in an attempt to break up and disperse the product.
It is difficult to say whether a patient that has developed nodules or irregularities after Sculptra would be prone to developing further nodules. I do not typically place Sculptra near the mouth due to risk of irregularities or nodule formation, and instead limit my use of Sculptra to the deeper facial soft tissues such as those in the cheeks or temples.
Be sure to always discuss any post-injection concerns with your injector, and I always recommend seeing an expert physician injector.
All the best,

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for
your question. Sculptra is long lasting but not permanent filler. This means
that your bumps will not be permanent. The bumps you are experiencing should
resolve once your filler wears off in 9 months. It is unlikely for this to
happen again. However, I would seek out a new expert injector for the future.
Best of Luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Irregularities from SCulptra at 1 month may be persistent for along time.  SInce I was not the treating physician, it is unlcear why you have the result that you are claiming.  Nevertheless, it may improve soon, but it will eventuallly go away.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Jenny,
I am sorry to hear that you have had such an unfortunate response to your treatment.  Lumps/bumps do occur in around 6% of Sculptra treatments.  The overwhelming majority of these bumps are not visible, but can be felt. 
The occurence is extremely technique dependent and "technique" includes:

The preparation of the Sculptra material
The actual injections
The aftercare

In the United States, the manufacturer, Sanofi-Aventis, Dermik, requires practitioners to undergo formal training on the use of Sculptra before they can order the product.  In addition, its use is limited to plastic surgeons, dermatologists and certain otolaryngologists. 
Your lumps will resorb (disappear) over time.  You may be able to hasten the process with massage.  Your risk of lumps with future treatments remains 6%.  Make sure that future injectors are up to date on the latest "techniques."  Good luck!

Eugene Mandrea, MD (retired) · Answer

It is unlikely that he lumps will be permanent.

	If repeated massaging doesn't help, gently vibrating thelumps repeatedly will help a grerat deal.

	Always make sure that you are being treated by an experienced Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon.

Will These Sculptra Lumps Be Permanent?

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Answer: An unfortunate Sculptra result

Answer: An unfortunate Sculptra result

Answer: Sculptra lumps permanent

Answer: Sculptra lumps permanent

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Will These Sculptra Lumps Be Permanent?

Answers (6)

Answer: An unfortunate Sculptra result

Answer: An unfortunate Sculptra result

Answer: Sculptra lumps permanent

Answer: Sculptra lumps permanent

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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.