Sculptra Services at Image Dermatology In Montclair, NJ

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is an injectable dermal filler which stimulates the body to produce natural collagen. Dr. Downie traveled to Europe to try it after it became available there in 1999 under the name of "Neu Fill." Sculptra is a volumizer as well, but since its primary benefit is boosting collagen, the amazing results are gradual and subtle – not instant. If you want friends and family to wonder how you stay so young looking, if you don't want them to ask what you've just had done, Sculptra could be ideal for you.

The Sculptra procedure

This product can be injected in the temples, cheekbones, under the eyes, jaw line, ears, the area between the nose and mouth, and the chin to replace lost volume and restore a more youthful appearance. It can even be used on the back of the hands to give them a younger look. Sculptra starts to restore the natural fullness you enjoyed several years ago by correcting shallow wrinkles and deep facial and nose folds. Simply put, Sculptra delivers the "three Rs" – it replaces, restores, and refines.

After Sculptra

There’s essentially no downtime following treatment. You may return to normal activities right away and wear make-up within a few hours. Some aftercare, though, will help you get gorgeous results. Use cool compresses the first 24 hours after treatment if you have swelling. Remember the 5/5/5 rule – massage the treated area for five minutes, five times a day, for five days to distribute the product evenly. Avoid UV exposure, including tanning beds. As usual, Dr. Downie recommends part of your post-care include using sunblock with an SPF 30 daily.

In order to see the full results of Sculptra, Dr. Downie may recommend monthly treatment sessions for four to six months. The amazing results, however, last approximately two years or longer. Other volumizers such as Juvederm, Radiesse, Perlane, Restylane and Voluma do not last as long. This is one of the best products Dr. Downie uses for a face that is aging significantly with deeper lines.

A few things you know

Sculptra is formulated of a poly-L-lactic acid, a byproduct that occurs naturally in your body. After you exercise, lactic acid builds up in your muscles. Therefore, an allergic reaction is highly unlikely, and it is extremely safe. However, Dr. Downie will not recommend Sculptra if you have inflammation or infection in the treatment area. Sculptra is not appropriate for the pigmented part of the lip. Some patients experience redness, bruising, itching, or swelling at injection sites, although these side effects are minor and temporary. Pinpoint lumps very rarely have been reported under the skin and can be treated.

What patients often ask

How many treatments are needed?

Usually six or more, spaced over several months.

How many injections are done at each session?

It depends on the amount of correction desired and the areas to be treated. Dr. Downie customizes each rejuvenation plan to the patient’s individual needs. One to three vials can be used per treatment session, this depends on the individual patient’s needs.

Does it hurt?

Any type of injection can pinch, but Dr. Downie is quite skilled at this application, and every precaution is taken to ensure that patients have comfortable Sculptra experiences. We numb patients topically for an hour prior to beginning injections.

Of all the services she offers, dermal fillers are Dr. Downie's favorite procedure because the results are so gratifying. She defines her work as image dermatology – reshaping, revolumizing, resculpting, redefining, and restoring.

Dr. Downie's patients include many men and women in the public eye. These politicians, television personalities, and business powerhouses want a subtle change to turn back the hands of time. So do many everyday people you know. Sculptra is a great solution.

Contact Dr. Downie in her Montclair, New Jersey office at to schedule an appointment.