Gone are the days where a facelift was considered the solution for patients looking to shed years off their appearance. Demand for the traditional facelift is becoming less prevalent as clients increasingly seek less invasive solutions with subtler, more enduring results. Thanks to advances in medical aesthetics, clients now have a myriad of non-surgical treatments at their fingertips.

Renowned doctor owned and operated cosmetic clinic, Clinic42, is observing a significant surge in demand for Sculptra. Often referred to as the “liquid facelift”, the treatment has been a staple in the USA and Brazil aesthetics industry for years, where it’s renowned for its lifting abilities in both face and body treatments.

The benefits of Sculptra

Natural results: Sculptra’s unique approach stimulates collagen production gradually, with results showing from around six weeks, leading to a subtle and natural rejuvenation. Patients can enjoy a refreshed appearance without appearing overdone or artificial.

Multiple benefits: Following the initial course of 1-2 treatments six weeks apart, multiple benefits of facial ageing can be seen in the different layers of the skin at the same time, including correcting bone and fat loss through revolumisation, tightening of the skin, and skin luminosity.

Prolonged efficacy: Sculptra’s benefits have been scientifically proven to endure for up to two years, significantly surpassing the longevity of many other treatments. (Narins RS et al. J Am Acad Dermatol 2010;62(3):448-62)

Safety and trust: Sculptra has a proven track record of stimulating collagen production, having been offered globally for over ten years, and been offered at Clinic42 for three years.

Non-surgical comfort: Sculptra is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment performed within 60 minutes. Discomfort and downtime are minimised, while maximising convenience and natural-looking outcomes.

Customised approach: Clinic42’s practitioners specialise in tailoring all their treatments to address individual patient needs and goals. This personalised approach ensures patients achieve the specific results they desire.

Ahead, we chat to Dr Ellen Selkon of Clinic42 to learn more about Sculptra…

ProCollective (PC): What is Sculptra, and how does it work?

Dr Ellen: Sculptra is an advanced non-surgical anti-ageing biostimulator treatment offered by Clinic42. It contains a substance called PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), which is injected deep under your skin. There, the PLLA works with your body to stimulate and revitalise natural collagen production. As collagen production is stimulated, the skin starts to regain its structure and volume. This gradual collagen boost results in a natural-looking rejuvenation, addressing volume loss, skin laxity and skin texture. There is also an amazing effect on the skin itself leaving it with a beautiful glow and improved skin texture.

PC: What sets Sculptra apart from other anti-ageing treatments?

Dr Ellen: Sculptra stands out for its long-lasting results, lasting up to two years. It’s also known for its lifting effect, providing subtle, natural-looking volume enhancement.

Before

After

Clinic42 patient one month after one treatment. Note improvement in jowls and cheek volume.

PC: Who is an ideal candidate for Sculptra?

Dr Ellen: Sculptra is suitable for individuals looking to address signs of ageing such as volume loss, wrinkles, and sagging skin. It’s a versatile treatment that can benefit a wide range of age groups and skin types that are showing signs of skin laxity or ageing.

PC: How is Sculptra administered and what is the treatment process like?

Dr Ellen: Sculptra is administered through a series of injections by Clinic42’s experienced Doctors. The appointment is 60 minutes, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately afterward. The number of initial treatments required is dependent on the loss of volume and collagen. Some patients may only require two treatments focusing on skin texture and luminosity, while others who are dealing with more substantial volume loss may require up to three treatments. A personalised treatment plan is created for each patient to ensure the best results. Annual treatments are recommended.

PC: Are there any side effects or downtime associated with Sculptra?

Dr Ellen: Most patients experience only mild, temporary side effects such as swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site which subsides by day two. These typically resolve within a few days and can be treated with ice. Rare side effects can occur and include injection into a blood vessel. This may result in skin discolouration and breakdown, blistering and scab formation that may result in a scar. Other rare side effects are nodules, which generally don’t occur anymore now that the dilution regime has been changed. If they do occur, they can be treated by the practitioner. Extremely rare side effects have included cases of blindness which have resulted from filler injection – especially when injecting the nose and between the eyes.

PC: How soon can patients expect to see results, and how long do they last?

Dr Ellen: Sculptra results are gradual, with improvements becoming more apparent six weeks after treatment. The effects can last up to two years or more, making it a long-lasting solution compared to some other treatments.

PC: What makes Clinic42 the preferred choice for Sculptra treatments?

Dr Ellen: Clinic42’s reputation is built on a commitment to providing the highest level of care, safety, and expertise. Their medical practitioners specialise in customising Sculptra treatments to achieve natural and harmonious results, catering to each patient’s unique needs and goals.

PC: What is Clinic42’s vision for Sculptra and cosmetic treatments in the future?

Dr Ellen: Clinic42’s vision is to continue leading in the field of cosmetic enhancements by offering cutting-edge treatments like Sculptra. They aim to empower individuals to embrace and maintain their natural beauty while achieving timeless results.

clinic42.co.nz