Sculptra

The visible signs of aging aren’t about surface lines—they’re about the deeper infrastructure failing. The skin’s reticular dermis and retinaculum cutis (the fibrous ligaments tethering skin to fascia) loosen, collagen thins, elastin frays, and the whole suspension system sags.

That’s where biostimulatory fillers—not traditional hyaluronic acids—come in. Unlike instant-fill gels, these products work by triggering your own fibroblasts to rebuild collagen, and in some cases, elastin. Two of the most widely used are Radiesse and Sculptra. Both aim to rejuvenate the dermal framework from within, but their mechanisms, inflammation levels, and outcomes couldn’t be more different.

Sculptra provokes a controlled inflammatory reaction. The PLLA microparticles are recognized as foreign, triggering macrophages and giant cells to release cytokines—IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and TGF-β1.

That cytokine surge calls in fibroblasts, which deposit Type I collagen around each PLLA crystal in concentric rings. The process unfolds slowly over months as the particles degrade into lactic acid.

It’s biologic remodeling through controlled irritation—a bit like setting off a fire alarm to remind the building to fix itself.

The collagen formed is dense and lamellar . Clinically skin looks thicker and more youthful. No more thin wrinkled skin.

Typically a series of 3 monthly sessions are needed with annual maintenance.