Collagen production stimulators

Collagen production stimulators (e.g., Sculptra – L-polylactic acid, PLLA) are preparations that do not act like classic fillers. Their main goal is to stimulate fibroblasts to produce new collagen, which leads to a gradual improvement in skin quality, density, and volume.

The effect of the treatment builds up slowly and physiologically, over a period of a few to several months.

Indications for the use of collagen stimulators

• Volume loss and skin laxity of facial tissues associated with the aging process;
• Improvement of skin quality: thickening, firming, improvement of elasticity;
• Rejuvenation of the following areas:
  • cheeks, zygomatic area,
  • temples,
  • jawline (improvement of facial oval, so-called soft lift),
  • chin;
• Correction of depressions and volume deficits (e.g., emaciated face, „tired face”);
• Natural facial rejuvenation, without a filler effect;
• Anti-aging treatments for patients preferring a gradual, long-lasting effect;
• Complement to other aesthetic medicine procedures (e.g., after botulinum toxin, lasers).

Type of anesthesia

• The preparation can be diluted with the addition of an anesthetic;
• Local anesthesia (injection) possible at the patient's request;
• Application of anesthetic cream possible at the patient's request.

Procedure duration

Approximately 30 minutes are reserved for the entire procedure.

Treatment effect:

• The effect is not immediate;
• Gradual improvement in skin quality and volume appears within 6–12 weeks;
• The full effect is usually assessed after 3–6 months;
• The procedure is usually performed in a series of 1–3 treatments at intervals of several weeks.

Duration of effect:

• The effect usually lasts from 18 to 36 months, depending on the preparation, the number of treatments, and the patient's individual predispositions;
• Booster treatments can prolong the effect.

Stay in clinic

• Approximately 30 minutes after the procedure, the patient can leave the clinic;
• Cooling the areas where the preparation was administered is recommended.

Post-procedure recommendations:

• Painkillers are usually not necessary;
• For possible bruising, arnica preparations can be used;
• For several days after the procedure, it is recommended to massage the treated area (according to the doctor's recommendations);
• Avoid intense sunbathing and sauna in the first days after the procedure.

Recovery period:

• Swelling is usually minor, subsiding within a few days;
• Bruising occurs rarely; if it appears, it subsides within 7–14 days;
• Return to work possible immediately after the procedure;
• Physical activity usually possible from the next day

Complications

Complications are rare, but can occur:

• Infection (extremely rare);
• Inflammatory reaction at the site of preparation administration;
• Formation of nodules or irregularities (most often related to improper massage of the preparation);
• Insufficient effect (may require another procedure);
• Allergic reactions (very rare);
• Patient dissatisfaction with the outcome of the procedure.

The utmost care in performing the procedure can be guaranteed, however, subjective patient satisfaction with the final result cannot be guaranteed.

Follow-up examinations:

Follow-up after a minimum of 3–6 months to assess the effect and durability of the procedure.