Spring Refresh: How Sculptra® Rebuilds Your Body's Own Collagen

Collagen provides the internal structure and support that keeps skin firm and smooth. But despite being the most abundant type of protein in the body, production begins to slow by about 1% each year once you hit your mid-20s.

To stay ahead of collagen decline, talk to the experts at The Beauty Medics. Our team, led by Syed Bokhari, MD, provides professional guidance and care to help you maintain a naturally radiant appearance as your skin’s needs change.

Sculptra® is an ideal option for targeting age-related skin concerns like wrinkles, folds, and volume loss without the risk of looking overdone. Here’s why it’s perfect for a spring refresh.

How does Sculptra work?

Most dermal fillers on the market today use hyaluronic acid (HA) to add physical volume beneath the skin’s surface, instantly filling in lines and sunken areas. While these injectables work well for certain enhancements — such as plumping the lips and addressing undereye hollows — Sculptra takes a different approach to rejuvenation.

Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic, biocompatible material also used for medical implants and dissolvable sutures. Instead of filling space with a gel, PLLA stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of skin to gradually smooth wrinkles and restore natural fullness.

Your treatment timeline: From spring prep to long-term results

As your body absorbs the PLLA, it replaces the material with its own collagen fibers, which work to rebuild skin’s underlying structure. Because the subtle firming, plumping, and lifting effects appear gradually, they look entirely natural — never overdone or obvious.

For optimal results, we typically recommend at least three sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Most patients begin to see noticeable improvements in their skin about one month after their first treatment, with full results visible after three to six months.

By starting now, you’ll be enjoying your new look in summer. And the benefits only continue from there: The newly developed collagen remains long after the PLLA is gone, helping you maintain a refreshed appearance for up to two years.

What to expect during and after your Sculptra session

Your treatment begins with a consultation where we assess your skin and facial structure. Then we map out a customized injection plan. 

Sessions typically last between 30-45 minutes and require no downtime, so you can get back to your daily routine with zero interruptions. We apply a topical anesthetic to keep you comfortable throughout the process. You may notice some minor swelling or bruising near the injection sites, which is normal and should clear up within a few days.

To help distribute the injected material evenly under your skin, keep the 5-5-5 rule in mind: Massage the treatment area(s) for 5 minutes, 5 times per day for the first 5 days. We recommend avoiding direct sun exposure within 24-48 hours of your Sculptra session.

Our team can help you decide whether Sculptra is the right choice for you. Call or click today to schedule an appointment with The Beauty Medics in Riverside, California, and let us refresh your look this spring.