When it comes to aesthetic treatments aimed at rejuvenating the face, Sculptra and traditional fillers are often mentioned in the same breath. Both are injectable treatments designed to restore volume and smooth out wrinkles, but they work in fundamentally different ways and offer unique benefits. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which treatment is best suited for your aesthetic goals.
How do they work?
Traditional Fillers
Juvederm and Restylane, traditional fillers, primarily contain hyaluronic acid, a substance our skin naturally produces. Upon injection, these fillers instantly provide volume, filling lines, wrinkles, and hollow areas. The effects appear instantly and typically last between 6 to 18 months, depending on the filler type and treatment area.
Sculptra
Sculptra uses poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible synthetic substance. Instead of providing immediate volume like traditional fillers, Sculptra stimulates the body to produce its own collagen. Patients don’t see results immediately; instead, they gradually appear over several months, but these results can persist for two years or more.
What are the Benefits?
Traditional Fillers
Provide immediate results, making them ideal for quick fixes before an event.
Offer versatility, so you can use them in various areas like lips, cheeks, and under the eyes.
Require less commitment since doctors can reverse or adjust them, with some fillers even being dissolvable.
Sculptra
Delivers long-lasting results, reducing treatment frequency.
Ensures a natural transition due to the gradual growth of collagen.
Improves the skin’s texture and elasticity by boosting collagen.
Ideal Use-Cases
Traditional Fillers:
Effectively fill in superficial lines and wrinkles.
Instantly give fuller lips.
Offer immediate, temporary enhancements for quick touch-ups.
Sculptra:
Treats volume loss in larger areas like cheeks.
Addresses more pronounced lines needing a collagen boost.
Suits those who want a long-term solution and can wait for results.
In conclusion, if you want immediate results or need to address specific problem areas, opt for traditional fillers. For a longer-term, holistic facial rejuvenation, consider Sculptra.
Always consult a qualified medical practitioner to determine the best treatment for your aesthetic goals.
After training at the University of Birmingham, Dr. Amy has worked in numerous medical and surgical fields in the West Midlands. She holds a particular passion for women’s health and is actively involved in related research. Her expertise encompasses treatments with Aqualyx (fat dissolving injections), Botox, fillers, and lip-fillers, highlighting her commitment to high-quality aesthetic care.
To book an aesthetic consultation with Dr Amy Thompson in our Nantwich clinic, click here.