Sculptra vs. Filler: How to Know Which is Right For You?

THE NATURAL AGING PROCESS & RESTORING VOLUME

Throughout the aging process, we lose 1% of our collagen annually starting in our mid-20s.  In addition, facial muscles become smaller, we have resorption of bony structures, deep fat pads deflate, and superficial fat pads descend. Combine all of these changes, and noticeable age-related volume loss will occur in the face. Although these changes are primarily genetic, environmental factors play an important role as well.

Luckily for us, there are endless treatment options to tackle any age-related change we notice in the face. Two of the most popular treatments in our practice that are commonly sought out by patients are Hyaluronic Acid fillers (Restylane brand) and Sculptra. Both of these options require the product to be injected for the ultimate goal of volume restoration.  However, their mechanism of action, duration, and potential side effects will differ. Let’s dive into Sculptra vs. filler: how each works, their similarities, and what sets them apart. That way you can make an informed decision on which might be best for you!

By: Kaitlyn Hunter, NP

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SCULPTRA: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Sculptra is by far the most popular biostimulator on the market for volume restoration and collagen production. Yes, you read that correct—Sculptra does both. Not only does Sculptra plump up an area that is missing volume such as the cheeks, but it also stimulates collagen in the exact same area which will give the skin a beautiful glow.

Sculptra’s main active ingredient is Poly-L-Lactic-Acid (PLLA). PLLA works its magic on any tissue where the product is injected.  Some of the most commonly treated areas include: temples, cheeks, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines.  Unfortunately Sculptra cannot be injected in all area of the face—the under-eyes and lips should be entirely avoided.  Sculptra is truly best for the bigger areas of the face to truly lay down a stronger foundation, provide more support to the face, and give the allusion of a “liquid facelift.” Sculptra can also be used in areas of the body such as the neck, chest arms, hands, booty, and knees. 

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN MAKING YOUR DECISION

ONSET

If you’re looking for immediate results, filler is a good option. Once injected, the filler provides instant results. There is a small amount of swelling present right away that dissipates over a period of four weeks. If you are not searching for immediate results and are happy with a long-term plan, Sculptra will be a great choice for you. Sculptra offers no immediate results and takes around six months to achieve final results. Some of my patients will opt to combine filler and Sculptra so they have immediate results but are also working on a long-term plan.

To see some before and after photos of filler, like this patient, be sure to check out our Instagram!

LONGEVITY

Most HA fillers are FDA approved for one year. Depending on your metabolism, you may notice filler goes away sooner than that or may even last longer! Sculptra is FDA approved for two years so it has much more longevity than filler. By injecting Sculptra, you have the opportunity to require less filler treatment in the future.

SIDE EFFECTS

Since both treatments require a needle to be injected into the skin, there is always the possibility of bruising.  In addition, both treatments may also need to address swelling and tenderness at the injection site. There are techniques, such as using a cannula, that decrease the risk of these side effects. Although unlikely, both treatments also have the ability to cause a nodule.  This can be very dependent on the specific brand of filler, injection technique, and post-care used after injections. In the event the patient does not like the results of the treatment, filler can be dissolved, whereas Sculptra cannot.

SCULPTRA VS FILLER: THEY’RE BOTH WINNERS

I personally have had both treatments and find them equally beneficial in delaying the aging process. Combination therapy to achieve patient goals is always the most effective approach! If you are considering filler and/or Sculptra but don’t know where to start, reach out to a reputable practice close to you! Schedule a consultation so you can be educated on all of your options and then make a grounded decision on where to start! You really can’t go wrong either way!