Sculptra® in Topeka, KS (Feel Like You Again)
A Subtle Lift. A Stronger Foundation. A Glow That Lasts.
At The Refinery Medical Aesthetics in Topeka, Sculptra is one of our favorite ways to restore youthful volume and rejuvenate your skin from within. Unlike traditional fillers that add volume immediately, Sculptra works over time by stimulating your body’s own collagen production.
The result is gradual, natural-looking improvement that supports facial structure and enhances skin tone and texture.
Sculptra is ideal for patients who want to restore what time has taken away without the look of “having work done.” It is about rebuilding, not just filling.
This treatment works especially well for those experiencing overall volume loss or who are looking for a long-term, low-maintenance option for facial rejuvenation.
Understanding Sculptra
What Is Sculptra?
Sculptra is an injectable biostimulant made of poly L lactic acid. It is not a traditional dermal filler. Instead of sitting under the skin to create volume immediately, Sculptra acts as a catalyst for collagen growth. Over the course of several weeks to months, your body rebuilds its own natural scaffolding, resulting in firmer, fuller, and more youthful skin.
Sculptra was originally developed for patients with lipoatrophy, or facial fat loss, and is FDA approved for cosmetic use in restoring facial volume. It is now widely recognized as one of the most effective tools for full-face rejuvenation and age-related volume loss.
How Does Sculptra Work?
After Sculptra is injected into the targeted areas, it begins to stimulate collagen production deep within the dermis. Over time, this newly formed collagen rebuilds the skin’s internal structure, restoring volume and smoothing lines and folds. Because the results develop gradually, they appear very natural and refined.
Most patients receive a series of treatments spaced over several months. The results can last up to two years or longer, making Sculptra one of the longest-lasting non-surgical treatments available.
What Makes Sculptra Unique?
- Stimulates collagen production instead of temporarily filling space
- Results develop gradually for a natural progression
- Long-lasting outcome with minimal maintenance
- Can be used in combination with other injectables and treatments
What Sculptra Does Not Treat
Sculptra is not meant for use in delicate areas such as the lips or under the eyes. It also does not replace neurotoxins for muscle-related wrinkles or work instantly like hyaluronic acid fillers.
If you are looking for immediate volume or correction, your provider may recommend combining Sculptra with other injectables.
What Sculptra Can Treat
Full Face Rejuvenation
Sculptra restores volume across multiple areas of the face that have thinned or hollowed over time. This includes the cheeks, temples, jawline, and areas around the mouth. It is particularly effective for improving overall skin integrity and firmness.
Cheeks and Midface
As we age, we lose volume in the midface, which can make the face appear tired or drawn. Sculptra restores this foundational volume for a lifted and refreshed appearance.
Temples
Hollow temples can age the face and disrupt facial balance. Sculptra can refill and soften this area while improving transitions between the upper and midface.
Jawline
While not a sharp sculpting agent like some fillers, Sculptra can subtly reinforce the jawline, especially in patients who are experiencing skin laxity.
Marionette Lines and Nasolabial Folds
Sculptra softens deep folds by rebuilding collagen from within, rather than masking the surface alone.
Lower Face and Chin Support
For patients with sagging or tissue loss in the lower face, Sculptra provides a slow, foundational lift that restores harmony and smooths contour irregularities.
What to Expect
Before Your Treatment
- Avoid the use of Aspirin, NSAIDS, Ginko Biloba, Garlic Supplements, Green Tea, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids for up to 1 week pre and post injection as they will increase your risk of bruising.
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before (or after) your treatment to avoid extra bruising.
- Starting over the counter oral Arnica pellets 2-3 days prior to your treatment has been proven to decrease the bruising potential during your treatment. This can be purchased online or over the counter at any pharmacy. Dosing is as directed on the packaging label.
- Do not apply topical products that are potentially irritating for 2 -3 days before and for 2-3 days after treatment (Examples: Tretinoin, Retin-A, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone).
- If you are prone to cold sores, starting your preventative antiviral medication 2-3 days prior to your treatment may help prevent cold sores from developing after your treatment.
- If you develop a cold sore, blemish, or rash, etc. on or near the treatment area prior to your appointment you must reschedule.
- Sculptra is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Please inform your provider prior to the day of your scheduled treatment if you have any questions about this.
- Arrive with a clean face. Please remove all makeup or other skin care products prior to your appointment.
- Redness and swelling after the treatment is normal and some bruising may be present immediately following the treatment but may also develop in the first few days following the treatment.
During Your Appointment
Your provider will assess your facial anatomy and determine your treatment plan. Sculptra is mixed and injected using a very fine needle or cannula into the appropriate areas. Most appointments take about 60 minutes. The injection process is typically well tolerated and numbing agents such as lidocaine can be used to enhance comfort.
You may notice mild swelling or a plumping effect immediately after your visit. This is mostly due to the sterile water used to suspend the particles. It will dissipate within a few days as your skin begins the internal regeneration process.
Aftercare Instructions
- Massage the treatment areas for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days after treatment to help distribute the product evenly in the areas and to prevent nodule formation.
- You may take Acetaminophen/Tylenol if you experience any mild tenderness or discomfort.
- An over the counter antihistamine such as Claritin, Zyrtec, or Benadryl can be used if you experience any itching to the treatment area.
- After treatment there will be mild fullness, swelling, and redness with the possibility of bruising. These symptoms will resolve in about 7 days. Over the counter topical Arnica Cream or oral Arnica tablets may be used to help improve any bruising you may experience and should be taken as directed on the packaging label.
- Avoid extended sun or UV exposure until any redness or swelling has subsided. Apply SPF diligently and use shade or hats to protect the treatment areas when you are outdoors.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours to reduce the potential of bruising. You may resume other normal activities/routines immediately.
- Avoid laser, IPL, or other skin tightening treatments to the area for at least 2-3 weeks after the treatment.
- You may continue your routine topical skin care products 1 week after your treatment.
- Please contact the office at (785)329-3499 with any non-urgent questions or concerns or you can text your provider directly with any urgent needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients require a series of two to three treatments spaced about four to six weeks apart. The exact number depends on your goals and baseline volume.
When will I see results?
Sculptra results develop gradually as collagen builds. You may start noticing improvements after a few weeks, with full results appearing after several months.
How long does Sculptra last?
The effects of Sculptra can last two years or longer with proper care and maintenance.
Is Sculptra safe?
Yes. Sculptra has been used worldwide for over two decades and is FDA approved. When performed by a trained provider, it is a safe and effective treatment.
Can Sculptra be combined with other injectables?
Yes. Many patients choose to pair Sculptra with SkinPen, dermal fillers, or neurotoxins for a full facial refresh. Your provider will guide you in creating a customized plan.
Will I look overfilled?
No. One of the main benefits of Sculptra is its gradual development. This approach helps avoid the overdone look and supports a more natural transformation.
What is the five by five rule?
After your Sculptra treatment, you will be asked to massage the treated areas for five minutes, five times a day, for five days. This ensures even distribution of the product and supports optimal collagen stimulation.
Does Sculptra require maintenance?
Yes. Although results are long lasting, touch up sessions every one to two years help maintain your results and continue to support collagen production.
Restore Your Natural Collagen
Sculptra is not just about replacing volume. It is about rebuilding the foundation of your skin. With each session, your face gains more lift, more glow, and more confidence.
Book your Sculptra consultation at The Refinery in Topeka and experience the difference of collagen that comes from within.
