What are collagen stimulators…or more specifically, what are Radiesse and Sculptra?
Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is designed to restore volume to your skin. It is a collagen stimulator, not a facial filler. Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible synthetic variation of lactic acid that is more durable than natural lactic acid and stimulates natural metabolic processes to produce collagen.
Radiesse is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite gel microspheres which provides an immediate filler contouring effect and an ensuing collagen & elastin stimulating effect. It is both a facial filler AND collagen stimulator.
Using collagen stimulators we are able to increase collagen production to improve the contour, volume and firmness to areas that have demonstrated aging, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Typically, a series of treatments may be required to provide sensational results.
Face Hollows
Application of the collagen stimulators to the temples — and other areas of natural aging hollows, creates a fuller, more youthful appearance, enhances lift for the more mobile facial structures, and enhance the health and strength of the underlying collagen and tissue.
Jawline & Chin
Collagen stimulators are very effective at creating contour and definition, particularly at the jawline — or to create a more prominent chin. When used with other treatment modalities (i.e. Kybella, RF Microneedling), the results are truly dramatic.
Décolletage
Collagen stimulators are very effective at thickening and strengthening the thin — often sun damaged — skin of the décolletage. The treatment also reduces the fine vertical rhytides (wrinkles) that often develop in this area. Use in conjunction with RF Microneedling and laser therapy for transformational results.
Other Areas
The dorsum (back) of the hands can benefit from from a more youthful appearance and a healthier protective stroma — particularly for hands with overly prominent veins.
The Sculptra “Booty Lift” is a truly revolutionizing non-surgical procedure with minimal downtime.
FAQ
Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable that uses poly-L-lactic acid to effectively stimulate collagen production. The increase in collagen thickens and strengthens the skin to achieve a more youthful appearance.
Radiesse is an injectable which contains calcium hydroxyapatite gel microspheres which functions like a HA filler initially, but provides for enhanced collagen production which is realized several months after treatment.
Collagen stimulators induce natural processes to achieve effect, and every individual is different with regard to onset and extent of response. Generally, a response will be appreciated within one to six months. Hereditary factors and environmental factors can also have an effect.
Results typically last two years.
Treatments are best administered in a graded fashion, enhancing the effects of prior treatments. Three treatments is optimal.
No. You don’t have to worry about any downtime.
The HA fillers provide need immediate effect at the treatment areas. The HA gels rapidly absorb water and create the desired fullness and lift shortly after it is administered. Collagen stimulators — like Sculptra — have little volume and do not absorb water; it’s therapeutic effect relies on it ability to trigger the body to produce collagen. However, Radiesse does have both a filler effect and a collagen stimulation effect; optimally, the collagen production manifests as the filler effect begins to wane.