Sculptra/Lanluma

Poly-L lactic acid is a synthetic, biocompatible, and biodegradable injectable material known as Poly-L Lactic Acid (PLA) that stimulates the skin cells to manufacture more collagen, restoring lost volume and improving skin quality.

Poly-L lactic acid is injected into the deeper layers of the skin giving immediate correction.  Unlike dermal fillers, the correction is temporary, as the water the PLA is suspended in is reabsorbed over the following few days.  Collagen stimulation takes place gradually, over a period of months and the treatment will need to be repeated at 4–6-week intervals.  You will be advised how many vials of Poly-L lactic acid and how many treatment sessions will be required following consultation and assessment.

There is an immediate improvement, but this is temporary, lasting only a few days. The skin then responds to the treatment over a period of months.  Most patients can resume normal activities without any obvious signs of having had a procedure, however, be prepared for possible redness, pin prick marks, swelling or bruising. Make-up should not be worn for at least 6 hours, but sterile cover cream can be applied if required.

Longevity does vary between individuals, but once the course of treatment has been completed, the results can be expected to last 18-24 months. A single treatment every 18 months is recommended to maintain the results of the initial course. Life-style factors can effect longevity.  If you choose not to maintain the results with further treatment, your skin will return to its pre-treatment state over time.

Poly-L lactic acid has a good safety profile, but not risk free.   Emma will discuss all the risks and benefits with you at consultation and again prior to treatment.
 

Because bruising and swelling can occur and may take time to settle, it is not advisable to have treatment just before an important event. Although the majority of patients suffer only minor side effects related to the injections, it is best to allow sufficient time for any possible side effects to resolve. A minimum of 2-4 weeks is recommended.  Emma will advise. Do not schedule treatment when you have other procedures planned, without first discussing with Emma. This includes, but is not limited to - massage, facials, dental appointments and surgery.

It is best not to schedule treatment just before a holiday abroad. Discuss with Emma.

Emma will take a detailed medical history to ensure you have no conditions that might increase risk of unwanted side effects, consultation is also important to discuss your expectations and whether this treatment is able to meet them.

Treatment need not be painful.
A local anaesthetic is added to the vial prior to injection, and we can/will apply topical anaesthetic cream, or ice, prior to treatment to numb the skin.

Do read all the information provided to you and highlight anything you need to ask about. Check the clinic terms and conditions before attending.

Make-up
All make up will need to be removed prior to treatment, so please come ‘fresh faced’ if possible.

Check medicines and supplements
Aspirin, Ibuprofen and a range of dietary supplements including St. John’s Wort, fish oils, Gingko Biloba, Vitamins C and E may all contribute to bruising and are best avoided 24 hours before treatment.

Alcohol
Don’t drink alcohol the night before, it will increase your risk of bruising.

Healthy skin and feeling well?
Check with the clinic before attending if any of the following apply

• Cold sore - brewing, active or recent and not quite healed
• Acne break-out
• Feeling unwell - including colds, coughs, sore throats etc.
• New diagnosis or medicines
• New injury for which you are taking pain medicines
• Appointments with the dentist - recent, or planned within 10 days of the treatment
• Travel plans within 10 days of the treatment.

Glasses
Bring your reading glasses with you.

Jewelry
Leave jewelry at home, especially large earrings, or facial piercings, bring a purse to keep them safely if you have to remove.

Most people can continue with normal activities with immediate improvement in their appearance. Some will have some redness, pin prick marks, possibly swelling. Possible bruising. Any swelling and bruising may be more apparent the next day.

From the evening of the treatment, massage the area as directed and continue for ten days.

For 6 hours

To avoid infection

• Do not reapply make-up
• Do not wear tight head-gear such as bike or cycle helmets, or riding hats, these will not be clean and may increase risk of infection
• Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face
• Avoid using your mobile phone against the treated area
• Don’t let pets lick your face

Until any redness, swelling or bruising has settled

To minimize discomfort and help it settle:

Avoid extremes of heat or cold or vigorous exercise, until any swelling, bruising or tenderness has settled.

Swelling may worsen in the first 24 hours, and then should settle within the first few days. Cold packs can be helpful in reducing swelling. Be sure not to apply ice directly to the skin or for too long. This can cause a ‘freeze burn’. Because of swelling, the product may feel harder or lumpy and you may notice some asymmetry. The final result may be judged at 2 weeks.

Bruising may take a few days to appear, arnica or bromelain can be helpful in clearing bruising.  It is advisable to avoid aspirin and alcohol for 12-48 hours after treatment. Tenderness should settle as swelling goes down. If you have bruising which concerns you, do contact the clinic for further advice.