Sculptra is also known as the liquid face lift. It is made from poly-L-lactic acid and is injected into the skin on parts the face where collagen stimulation is required. It is particularly beneficial along the marionette lines from mouth to chin, along the lines from nose to mouth, and along the cheek bones. The injections stimulate the production of collagen, which thickens the skin, thus smoothing out lines and wrinkles and restoring facial contours.

When injected into the cheek bone area, a slight face lift is achieved and combined with the additional fullness of the face, this can reduce the appearance of jowls. Unlike dermal fillers such as Restylane, the results are not instant, and it can take 2 to 3 months to achieve a full effect. Benefits may be seen in approximately 6 weeks. There should be improvements in the deep folds between your nose and mouth, the corners of your mouth, and around the chin. Results may last for up to 2 years.

Sculptra injections should be administered by a trained health care professional. As with any injection, there may be some discomfort, although anesthetic can be mixed in with the contents, this numbs the face and helps to minimize pain. In addition, a local anesthetic cream may be applied prior to having the injections. Sculptra costs may vary depending on your age and severity of wrinkles, and therefore how many treatments are required. You can expect to pay a few hundred pounds for one treatment.

As with any facial injections, there may be some bruising and swelling after treatment. This can be minimized by applying an ice pack before and after treatment. It is also recommended that you avoid alcohol and aspirin for 48 hours before treatment in order to avoid bruising. Small bumps may appear, and in order to prevent these, it is important to follow advice from your health care professional on daily massaging techniques following treatment.

The number of treatments required will depend on your age, how many lines and wrinkles you have, and the results you would like to achieve. Most people require 2-3 treatments, with a gap of 6 weeks between treatments.