Bio-stimulators, such as Sculptra and Radiesse, mark a transformative approach in aesthetic and regenerative treatments. Fundamentally, they operate on a principle beyond mere superficial fixes, aiming to invoke the body’s intrinsic healing and regenerative capabilities. When introduced into the skin, these treatments consist of substances that stimulate the natural production of collagen, a critical protein that gives our skin structure, elasticity, and firmness.
The mechanism of action of biostimulators is nuanced and tailored to harness the body’s biological processes. Unlike conventional fillers that add volume by filling in spaces, bio-stimulators work over time.
What are sculptra and radiesse?
Sculptra and Radiesse are two types of bio-stimulators, each with their own unique properties and uses in the field of aesthetic medicine.
Sculptra is formulated from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic material that is biocompatible and biodegradable. When injected, Sculptra acts as a catalyst, gradually stimulating the skin to produce more collagen. This process doesn’t deliver immediate results; instead, it initiates a gradual change, enhancing facial volume and reducing the appearance of wrinkles over time. The effects of Sculptra are not instantaneous but unfold over several months, offering a subtle and natural-looking rejuvenation that can last up to two years.
Radiesse, on the other hand, is made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. Like Sculptra, Radiesse promotes collagen production, but it also provides immediate volume upon injection, thanks to its unique formulation. The CaHA particles form a scaffold that supports the skin and encourages new collagen to grow around it. This dual action—immediate volumizing effect plus long-term collagen stimulation—makes Radiesse effective for smoothing moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds. The results of Radiesse can also last a year or more, providing a significant period of enhancement before gradually being absorbed by the body.
How It Induces Tissue Regeneration
When Sculptra or Radiesse is injected into the dermis, the deepest layer of the skin, it begins a process that is more akin to a biological prompting than a mere cosmetic fill. Sculptra, composed of poly-L-lactic acid, and Radiesse, made from calcium hydroxylapatite, serve as catalysts to kickstart the body’s collagen production. However, how they stimulate tissue regeneration is nuanced and distinct to their composition.
Sculptra works by being recognized by the body as a foreign material. This recognition does not cause harm or significant inflammation but encourages the skin to respond by producing new collagen strands. The poly-lactic acid particles in Sculptra slowly dissolve over time, leaving behind the newly formed collagen structures that help to firm up and volumize the skin from within. This gradual improvement ensures that the results are natural-looking and long-lasting, as the skin’s collagen matrix has been enhanced.
Radiesse operates on a slightly different principle. The calcium hydroxylapatite particles within Radiesse mimic the minerals found in bone, providing an immediate structural scaffold upon which new tissue can grow. The longer-term benefit of collagen induction then follows this immediate effect. As the gel carrier dissolves, the CaHA particles remain and continue to stimulate the surrounding tissue to produce collagen, eventually being metabolized by the body. This results in a dual-action effect: instant volumization and prolonged skin improvement through natural collagen production.
Treatment Procedure
The treatment procedure for bio-stimulators like Sculptra and Radiesse involves a series of steps designed to ensure the treatment’s safety, comfort, and effectiveness. Here is a simplified overview of the typical procedure:
- Consultation: The process begins with a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, who will evaluate your skin concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether Sculptra, Radiesse or another treatment is the most appropriate option.
- Pre-treatment Assessment: The treatment area is assessed before the procedure, and specific injection points are marked. This step is crucial for planning the locations where the bio-stimulators will be injected to achieve the desired effect.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The skin is thoroughly cleaned, and a topical anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort during the injection process. The preparation phase is essential for reducing the risk of infection and ensuring patient comfort.
- Injection: The bio-stimulator (Sculptra or Radiesse) is injected into the predetermined areas using a fine needle. The technique and depth of injection vary depending on the treatment area and the specific goals of the procedure. For Sculptra, injections are typically made more deeply into the dermis or subcutaneous layer. At the same time, Radiesse may be injected into multiple layers of the skin for immediate volumizing and long-term collagen stimulation.
- Massage: After the injections, the provider may gently massage the treated areas to distribute the product evenly. This step is crucial with Sculptra to ensure that the poly-L-lactic acid particles are adequately dispersed and to prevent the formation of nodules.
When To Expect Results
For Sculptra®, the timeline to noticeable results typically unfolds over several weeks following the initial treatments. Given that Sculptra® works by stimulating the body’s collagen production, the visible improvements in skin texture and volume do not appear overnight. Patients often start to see significant results around six weeks after their second session. Since the treatment protocol usually includes two or three sessions spaced about a month apart, the total effect becomes apparent as collagen production continues to ramp up following these sessions. The longevity of Sculptra® is one of its appealing attributes, with results lasting up to 24 months.
RADIESSE®, on the other hand, offers a slightly different experience. While it also promotes collagen production, the presence of calcium hydroxylapatite provides immediate volume enhancement upon injection. Thus, patients might notice some initial improvements right away. However, the peak outcomes reflect the volumizing effect and the new collagen generated by the body’s response to the treatment typically becomes more evident several weeks after the procedure. On average, the results from RADIESSE® are expected to last about one year.
Takeaway
Vibe Aesthetics offers state-of-the-art bio-stimulator treatments, including Sculptra® and RADIESSE®, to help you on your path to rejuvenation. Give your skin the attention and care it deserves right now. Witness noticeable enhancements in the volume and texture of your skin, with long-lasting effects. Please book an appointment for your assessment with the Vibe Aesthetics team right now, and allow us to assist you in realizing the enduring beauty you’ve always desired. Set off on a journey to become a more confident, lively you.
