Services

SCULPTRA

Sculptra offers a revolutionary approach to facial rejuvenation through collagen stimulation. Sculptra is an FDA-approved poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) bio-stimulator that works deep within the skin to gradually restore lost volume and smooth wrinkles by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists use Sculptra to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results that enhance your skin’s structure from within.

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What Is Sculptra?

We can’t stop the natural aging process, but we can stimulate your body’s own collagen production to restore a more youthful appearance. Sculptra is a unique collagen stimulator that addresses one of the main underlying causes of facial aging: collagen loss. If you’re looking for natural-looking results that improve over time without the need for frequent touch-ups, Sculptra may be right for you.

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane that provide immediate volume, Sculptra works with your body’s natural processes to rebuild collagen over time. The treatment contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic material that has been safely used in medical applications for over 25 years. Similar to other bio-stimulators like Radiesse, Sculptra encourages your body’s natural regenerative processes, though each works through different mechanisms.

Contributing factors to facial volume loss and collagen depletion include:

Natural aging process (1% collagen loss per year after age 20)
Hormonal changes
Sun damage and environmental factors
Genetics and lifestyle factors
Loss of facial fat pads over time

Sculptra is FDA-approved to treat shallow to deep nasolabial fold contour deficiencies, fine lines and wrinkles in the cheek region, and other facial wrinkles. Results develop gradually over 2-3 months and can last up to 2 years or more, making it an excellent option for those who want long-lasting, natural-looking facial rejuvenation.

How Does Sculptra Work?

Sculptra works by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production deep within the dermis. When injected, the poly-L-lactic acid microparticles are gradually absorbed by your body, triggering fibroblasts to produce new collagen. What makes Sculptra different? Unlike traditional fillers that add immediate volume, Sculptra addresses the root cause of aging by rebuilding your skin’s underlying structure. This collagen stimulation process continues for months after treatment, with results that look natural and improve over time. Our Danville patients love Sculptra for its ability to provide a refreshed appearance without looking “overdone” or artificial.

What Areas Can Sculptra Treat?

Sculptra is most commonly used to treat:

Nasolabial folds (smile lines from nose to mouth)
Cheek hollowing and mid-face volume loss
Temple hollowing
Overall facial volume restoration

Advanced applications may include:

Improving skin quality and texture
Enhancing jawline contour
Addressing skin laxity
Non-surgical facial contouring

Our experienced providers will assess your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate treatment areas for optimal, natural-looking results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sculptra?

Ideal candidates for Sculptra are adults who:

Have moderate facial volume loss or skin laxity
Want gradual, natural-looking results
Prefer long-lasting treatments with fewer maintenance visits
Have realistic expectations about the gradual improvement process
Are committed to the recommended treatment series
Want to address the underlying causes of facial aging

If you’re interested in collagen stimulation therapy, our expert team can help determine if Sculptra is right for you during a personalized consultation.

Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain autoimmune conditions may not be suitable candidates. Those with active skin infections or inflammation in the treatment area should wait until resolved.

Why Injector Experience Matters

Choosing a board-certified dermatologist for your Sculptra treatment is essential for optimal results. Sculptra requires specific injection techniques, proper dilution, and strategic placement to achieve natural-looking outcomes. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our providers have extensive experience with collagen stimulators and understand how to create treatment plans that enhance your natural facial structure while avoiding overcorrection.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Plan

During your consultation, the dermatologist will evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and assess your degree of volume loss. We’ll create a customized treatment plan, typically involving 2-3 sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart. Whether you’re new to injectables or seeking an alternative to frequent filler treatments, we’ll design an approach that delivers the natural, long-lasting results you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sculptra

How is Sculptra different from dermal fillers like Juvéderm and Restylane?

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvéderm and Restylane that provide immediate volume by filling lines and wrinkles, Sculptra is a bio-stimulator that works by stimulating your body’s own collagen production for gradual, natural-looking results that can last up to 2 years or more.

How does Sculptra compare to other bio-stimulators like Radiesse?

Both Sculptra and Radiesse are bio-stimulators that encourage collagen production, but they use different mechanisms. Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) while Radiesse uses calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA). Your dermatologist will recommend the best option based on your specific needs and treatment goals.

How long does Sculptra last?

Results from Sculptra can last up to 25 months or longer. While the PLLA is absorbed by your body within 1-2 years, the new collagen produced remains for extended periods.

How soon will I see results?

You may notice some immediate improvement, but optimal results develop gradually over 2-3 months as your body produces new collagen. Results continue to improve for several months after treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients require 2-3 treatment sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart for optimal results. The exact number depends on your individual needs and aesthetic goals.

Is there downtime after Sculptra?

Sculptra has minimal downtime. You may experience temporary swelling, bruising, or tenderness at injection sites, but most patients return to normal activities immediately.

What Our Patients Have to Say

Why Choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology

Patients from San Francisco, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Orinda, Moraga, Alamo, and Blackhawk choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for our unparalleled expertise and results.

We combine the science of dermatology with the artistry of aesthetics to deliver natural-looking enhancements that build confidence. With board-certified dermatologists performing all injections and a comprehensive range of laser technologies delivered by skilled providers, we provide both safety and excellence in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.

Unlike other practices, we complement our advanced treatments with physician-selected medical-grade skincare products and begin every aesthetic journey with our signature DermDesigned consultation. Whether you're seeking cosmetic enhancement or medical dermatology care, our commitment to natural-looking results and excellence ensures you'll receive the highest standard of care in the East Bay.

Visit Us In Danville

Experience world-class dermatology care right here in the East Bay.

Our Location

600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 Danville, CA 94526

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Contact Us

925.838.4900

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