BEFORE TREATMENT

Inform Us:

Of any significant medical history, dental issues, allergies or autoimmune conditions.

Of any history of keloid scar formation.

It is important you let us know if you are taking any prescribed or OTC medication/supplements. Certain foods, supplements, and medications are associated with an increased risk of bruising:

·       Fish/omega and Evening primrose oil.

·       Vitamin E, gingko biloba, garlic, ginger, and turmeric supplements

·       Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) e.g. ibuprofen/nurofen, naproxen, diclofenac/voltaren.

·       Anticoagulation medication e.g. aspirin/cartia. Please contact Dr Kath if taking dabigatran/pradaxa, rivaroxaban or warfarin.

·       Alcohol and green tea should also be avoided for 2 days prior to your treatment.

The following products should be avoided:

·       Skin products containing retinol, glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acid, or “anti-aging” products for at least 2 days before (and after) your treatment.

AFTER TREATMENT

To ensure you achieve optimal results it is important you adhere to the following aftercare advice:

•        Massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days (The 5-5-5 Rule) after your treatment. Dr Kath will show you how this is to be done.

•        Use moisturising cream to reduce friction when massaging.

•        Apply an ice pack or ice wrapped in a cloth (avoid putting ice directly on your skin) to the treatment area to help reduce swelling.

•        Makeup may be applied after 24 hours.

•        Avoid excessive sun, UV lamp exposure and excessive temperatures until initial swelling and redness have resolved.

•        Avoid heavy exercise and saunas/ steam rooms for 24 hours.

•        Avoid any other cosmetic procedures in the treated area until the skin has healed completely.

•        If you feel unwell or are concerned about any aspect of your treatment, contact Dr Kath immediately.

ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR SCULPTRA®?

Sculptra® is recommended for adults with healthy immune systems and it is recommended you wait a few weeks after any vaccinations or illness before having treatment. A full medical review will be completed prior to your procedure.

HOW DOES SCULPTRA® WORK?

Sculptra® uses a poly-L-lactic acid formula that stimulates the body’s natural collagen production. Collagen gives support to the structure of the skin, supports hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin to retain moisture, and elastin, which helps to maintain firm, tight skin.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

The number of treatment sessions required are dependent on skin quality and desired results. Initially, 2 to 3 treatments spaced at least 4-6 weeks apart may be required. Results develop gradually as collagen production is stimulated and skin appearance improves. Maintenance doses every one to two years will prolong the effect. The number of injections at each session will vary based on the treatment plan determined by you and Dr Kath.

IS SCULPTRA® SAFE?

Sculptra® is FDA-approved in the United States and has been used worldwide since 1999. Sculptra® is made of a synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid that is absorbed naturally and has been used for years in dissolvable stitches. Sculptra® does not contain any human or animal components, so no allergy testing is needed prior to treatments.

HOW SOON WILL I SEE RESULTS & HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

You may notice results for 24 hours after your Sculptra® treatment; however, these results are temporary. Sculptra® is a collagen stimulator, and the product itself does not provide a filling action. Results are gradual: meaning changes are subtle, and usually are not apparent immediately after your first treatment. Most clinical study participants saw results as soon as 4 weeks post treatment, with sustained results for up to 2 years.

Individual results may vary.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS?

Serious side effects are not common, however, following Sculptra® treatment you may experience:

·       Swelling, redness, pain, tenderness, bleeding, and bruising at the injection site. These reactions are normal and resolve over the next 2-6 days.

·       Small lumps under the skin that are sometimes noticeable when pressing on the treated area.

·       Larger lumps, some with delayed onset, with or without inflammation or skin discolouration, have also been occasionally reported.

WHY SCULPTRA® INSTEAD OF JUVEDERM®?

This is the most common question Dr Kath is asked. Unlike Juvederm®, Sculptra® is not a filler. It takes more sessions and a few weeks to see effects, but the results are gradual, natural, subtle, and last longer. Juvederm® is a hyaluronic gel that gives immediate results. Both are quality products which will diminish the look of aging skin. If you are looking for a “quick fix,” Juvederm® is for you and Dr Kath is happy to recommend colleagues who offer this service. However, if you are looking for a longer-lasting, natural outcome call Dr Kath to set up a consultation to discuss Sculptra®.

CAN I STILL HAVE TREATMENT WHILE PREGNANT OR IF BREASTFEEDING?

Unfortunately, no. There are no studies or data indicating Sculptra® treatments are safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please enjoy this precious time and book a consultation when you are able.

DO SCULPTRA® TREATMENTS HURT?

The injections are often described as a slight pinch and a "pushing, pulling” sensation with some pressure is also typically felt. Sculptra® injections are generally well tolerated as the solution also contains local anaesthetic.

HOW MUCH WILL MY APPEARANCE CHANGE?

Short answer = very little. You may notice a “fuller” appearance to your face immediately after treatment, but this usually resolves as the product is absorbed. Changes due to Sculptra® occur over weeks to months.

HOW LONG BEFORE I CAN RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITY?

No downtime is required and you able to return to your day after Sculptra® treatments.

Sculptra® is a poly-L-lactic acid implant liquid that is injected by a healthcare professional into or below the skin to increase volume of depressed areas, particularly to correct skin depressions. Class III Medical Device. Sculptra® may also be used for large volume restoration and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss. Sculptra® has risks and benefits. Sculptra® treatment may result in injection site reactions and pain. Ask your healthcare professional to explain the range of possible side effects and tell them if any side effects concern you. Sculptra® should not be injected into skin that is inflamed or infected. Exposure to excessive sunlight or UV lamp exposure should be avoided until redness or swelling has resolved. Sculptra® is not recommended for people taking blood thinning medicines and has not been tested in pregnant or breast-feeding women or those aged under 18 years. Lasts for 12-25 months. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS YOU ARE GIVEN. Galderma Australia, Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics Auckland. Ask your doctor if Sculptra is right for you. For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier. Click for further details. Galderma Australia Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland