Sculptra is a type of injectable dermal filler made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic material that is biocompatible and biodegradable. Known as a collagen stimulator, Sculptra is ideal for facial rejuvenation and to restore volume loss in the face that occurs as a result of aging, and is also used in non-surgical butt lift procedures.1

How Does Sculptra Work?

Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production in the skin, which helps to plump up the skin and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. It is typically used on the cheek and jawline areas, and the results are gradual, taking several weeks to become fully visible. Sculptra is a safe, effective non-surgical treatment for facial rejuvenation and gluteal augmentation (non-surgical butt lift).2

Benefits of Sculptra

Sculptra offers several benefits for those seeking a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation or enhancing the appearance of their buttocks. Some of the benefits of Sculptra include:

1. Non-surgical: Sculptra is a non-invasive procedure that does not require surgery or general anesthesia, making it a safer and less risky option for enhancing the appearance of the face or buttocks.

2. Gradual results: The results of Sculptra are gradual and natural-looking, appearing over the course of several weeks.

3. Long-lasting results: Sculptra can provide long-lasting results that can last up to two years or more, depending on the individual.

4. Stimulates collagen production: Sculptra works by stimulating the body’s own collagen production, which can improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.

5. Safe and biocompatible: Sculptra is made from a biocompatible and biodegradable material, making it a safe and well-tolerated option for most people.

6. Minimal downtime: Sculptra requires minimal downtime, and most people are able to return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.

7. Customizable: Sculptra can be customized to meet the individual needs and goals of each patient, allowing for a more tailored and personalized treatment.

Sculptra For The Face

Sculptra is a cosmetic treatment that is typically used to address signs of aging in the face, including fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of volume in the cheeks, temples, and jawline. Sculptra is a good option for people who are looking for a non-surgical solution to improve the appearance of their skin and restore a more youthful look.

Who Is A Candidate For Sculptra For Face?

In general, Sculptra is a good option for people who are in good overall health and looking for a non-surgical solution to improve the appearance of their skin. Good candidates for Sculptra injections in the face are typically seeking to restore a more youthful look to their face and/or experiencing loss of volume in the face, resulting in wrinkles and fine line, and desire a longer-lasting solution compared to dermal fillers.

The Sculptra Butt Lift

The Sculptra butt lift is a cosmetic procedure that uses Sculptra injections to enhance the appearance of the buttocks. The procedure involves injecting Sculptra into the muscles and fat tissue of the buttocks to add volume and create a fuller, more lifted appearance.

The Sculptra butt lift is a non-surgical alternative to traditional butt augmentation procedures such as fat transfers or implants, and it works by stimulating the growth of collagen in the area, which can lead to increased volume and a more toned appearance.

Who Is A Candidate For A Sculptra Butt Lift?

A candidate for a Sculptra non-surgical butt lift is typically someone who is looking to enhance the appearance of their buttocks without undergoing a more invasive procedure such as surgery. Some common reasons why people choose the Sculptra butt lift include the desire to enhance flat or saggy buttocks or lost volume in the buttocks due to aging or weight loss. Candidates may also want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery or are simply looking for a non-surgical option for enhancing the appearance of their buttocks.

However, the best way to determine if a Sculptra butt lift is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Broumand or our Allergan Certified RN Injector Tamara Spaide. Our providers can evaluate your individual needs and help you determine if the procedure is safe and appropriate for you, and whether or not it will help you achieve your desired results.

The Sculptra Treatment

During a Sculptra treatment, your provider will inject the Sculptra solution into the desired areas of the face or buttocks. The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of injections and the size of the treatment area.

FAQs About Sculptra

Is Sculptra safe?

Sculptra is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced healthcare provider. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there is a risk of side effects or complications. These risks include allergic reactions, bleeding, pain and tenderness at the injection site, swelling, bruising, redness, itching and lumps.3

How long does a Sculptra treatment take?

A Sculptra treatment typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area and the number of injections required.

How many treatments are needed for optimal results?

The number of Sculptra treatments needed for optimal results varies from person to person. On average, most people need between two and four treatments, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve the desired results. It’s important to keep in mind that Sculptra is not a one-time solution for enhancing the appearance of the buttocks. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired results, and maintenance treatments may be needed over time to maintain the results.

What is the downtime after a Sculptra treatment?

There is usually minimal downtime after a Sculptra treatment, and most people are able to return to their normal activities immediately. Some swelling and redness at the injection site is common, but these side effects usually resolve within a few days.

How long do the results of Sculptra last?

The results of Sculptra can last up to two years or more, depending on the individual. Maintenance treatments may be needed over time to maintain the desired results.

Are there any side effects associated with Sculptra?

As with any cosmetic procedure, there is a risk of side effects or complications with Sculptra. Common side effects include swelling, redness, and discomfort at the injection site, which usually resolve within a few days. Rare side effects may include infection, granulomas (hard lumps), and other skin reactions.

How much does Sculptra cost?

The cost of Sculptra can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the treatment area, and the number of treatments required. The best way to determine the exact pricing to achieve your cosmetic goals is to schedule a consultation.


1 Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Collagen Stimulators in Body Applications: A Review Focused on Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA). Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9233565/. Accessed February 8, 2023.

2 Dermatol Surg. Poly-L-Lactic Acid for Gluteal Augmentation found to be Safe and Effective in Retrospective Clinical Review of 60 Patients. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32976171/. Accessed February 8, 2023.

3 Sculptra USA. Safety & Side Effects. Available: https://www.sculptrausa.com/about#safety-side-effects. Accessed February 8, 2023.

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Dr. Stafford Broumand has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.