Sculptra is an injectable collagen-stimulating treatment made from poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible substance with a long history of safe use in medicine. By encouraging the body to produce new collagen within the skin, Sculptra gradually restores facial structure, improves skin firmness and addresses subtle volume loss in a balanced, natural-looking way. All Sculptra treatments at L’Atelier Aesthetics are performed by Dr Duncan Brennand at our 101 Harley Street clinic.

Sculptra Pre-Treatment Guidance

To prepare for your Sculptra treatment in London:

• Arrive with clean skin, free from make-up or skincare products
• Eat before your appointment to ensure comfort during treatment
• Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen where possible, unless prescribed by your doctor
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your appointment to minimise the risk of bruising and swelling
• Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your visit
• Inform your practitioner of any previous facial treatments, including fillers, threads or surgical procedures

During your visit:

• Clinical photographs and consent will be completed if not already done
• A member of the team will cleanse the skin thoroughly
• Local anaesthetic may be used to ensure comfort throughout the procedure
• Treatment time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes

What to Expect Immediately After Sculptra

Sculptra is a well-tolerated injectable procedure. Because the treatment works by stimulating your body’s own collagen production rather than adding immediate volume, the area may appear fuller straight after treatment due to the water used to reconstitute the product. This initial swelling is temporary and will subside within a few days, after which the area will return to its pre-treatment appearance before gradual improvements begin to develop over the following weeks and months.

You may experience:

• Mild swelling and puffiness in the treated area
• Light bruising at the injection sites
• Tenderness or sensitivity to touch for a few days
• Small bumps or firmness beneath the skin at the injection points, which typically resolve naturally

It is important to understand that the absence of an immediate visible result is entirely normal and expected with Sculptra. The treatment works on a different timeline to traditional fillers, with improvements emerging gradually as new collagen forms.

Sculptra Post-Treatment Care

Aftercare following Sculptra includes a specific massage protocol that is an essential part of the treatment process. Your practitioner will guide you through this in clinic before you leave.

The 5-5-5 massage rule: Massage the treated areas for five minutes, five times a day, for five days following your appointment. This helps to distribute the product evenly beneath the skin and reduces the risk of small lumps forming at the injection sites. Your practitioner will demonstrate the correct technique before you leave the clinic.

Additional aftercare guidance:

• Avoid touching or pressing the treated area beyond the recommended massage routine for the first 24 hours
• Apply a cold compress gently to help reduce swelling if needed in the first 24 to 48 hours
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours post-treatment to reduce bruising and swelling
• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms and hot baths for 24 to 48 hours
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure and extreme cold on the treated areas for two weeks following treatment
• Avoid dental procedures for two weeks after treatment
• Continue to stay well hydrated in the days and weeks following treatment, as hydration supports the collagen-stimulating process

When Will I See Results from Sculptra?

Sculptra works on a gradual timeline that is quite different from traditional injectable fillers.

• The initial swelling following treatment will settle within a few days, after which the area will return to its pre-treatment appearance
• Many patients begin to notice subtle improvements in skin texture and firmness within several weeks of their first session
• Further improvements develop progressively over the following months as new collagen forms and matures
• Results can continue to improve over time and may last longer than many traditional injectable treatments

A course of treatments spaced several weeks apart is typically recommended to achieve the best outcome. Your practitioner will assess your progress at each follow-up appointment and advise on whether additional sessions are needed. The number of sessions required will depend on the areas being treated, the degree of collagen loss and your individual goals.

Who Should Not Have Sculptra?

Sculptra may not be suitable if you have:

• Active skin infections, open wounds or compromised skin in the treatment area
• A known allergy to poly-L-lactic acid or any components of the product
• A history of severe or abnormal scarring
• Certain autoimmune conditions or inflammatory skin disorders
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

A full consultation with Dr Brennand will be carried out before treatment to assess your facial structure, skin quality and suitability, and to design a personalised treatment plan aligned with your goals.

When to Contact Us

Sculptra is a safe and well-established collagen-stimulating treatment when performed by an experienced medical professional. However, please contact L’Atelier Aesthetics if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening swelling beyond one week
• Firm nodules or lumps beneath the skin that do not respond to massage
• Signs of infection such as increasing redness, heat or discharge
• Any unusual or unexpected changes in the treated area

Our Harley Street team is always here to support you throughout your Sculptra journey and to answer any questions as your results gradually develop over time.