Sculptra® Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions

Pre-Treatment Instructions

• If you have a special event or vacation coming up, please keep in mind that you may want to schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks in advance to allow time for swelling and bruising to settle.
• It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, Motrin, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary provider prior to discontinuing any medications.
• Taking arnica tablets beginning 3 days prior to your injections may help minimize bruising. Eating pineapple for a few days may also be helpful. Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which may decrease swelling & inflammation.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods, and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. These items may contribute to increased swelling or irritation.
• If you have had ANY of the following two weeks before or after your filler appointment, you are not a candidate for treatment and will need to reschedule:
  
  • Dental cleaning or any other dental procedure
  • Lesion excision or biopsy
  • Surgery of any kind
  • Tattoo or permanent makeup
  • Vaccine
  • Illness, even a minor "cold"
• You should wait at least 2 weeks to have treatment performed if you have previously had cosmetic treatments with laser, ultrasound, peels, facials, or micro-dermabrasion.

Post-treatment instructions

• Do not wear makeup for 24 hours. You may cleanse your face and apply moisturizer with CLEAN hands. Moisturizer from a pump should be used, not from a tub.
• No exercise for 48 hours.
• Massage the face 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 days post treatment. This helps keep the Sculptra active and reduces the risk of nodule formation.
• Swelling and bruising is normal, and usually goes away in 2-3 days. Sleeping upright for a day or two after treatment will help.
• Try to avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications for 1-2 weeks after treatment, as this can affect the Sculptra collagen building process. Taking in plenty of dietary protein, which helps with collagen synthesis, as well as daily Vitamin C (1000mcg daily) will also help.
• Notify the office immediately if you experience any of the following:
  
  • Pain that is not treated by Tylenol and is significant. Mild discomfort and soreness are normal at the injection sites.
  • Any change in skin color, particularly paleness, blue/gray discoloration, or redness. If there are any questions, feel free to text a picture to the office text #.
  • Fever, discharge such as pus, or other sign of infection.
  • Rash, particularly if it looks like a little collection of acne breakouts, even in an area that is different than the treated area.

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