The Cutting Edge of Aesthetic Medicine:
Regenerative Biotimulator Treatments
with Sculptra and Hyperdilute Radiesse
It happens to the best of us. One day we wake up, look in the mirror, and feel like we aged 10
years overnight. Looking and feeling our best is essential to help us show up for ourselves and
the ones we love as we move confidently through the world. However, with all of the new
research supporting preventative aging and regenerative treatments as the gold standard for
facial balancing and natural looking results, fear not: Regenerative Aesthetic Medicine is here to
help!
What Is A Biostimulator Treatment?
Biostimulators such as Sculptra and Hyperdilute Radiesse are injectable treatments designed to
stimulate the body's natural collagen production as well as restructuring the extracellular matrix
for healthy, hydrated, vibrant skin. They are typically used to restore volume and improve skin
elasticity, helping you look exactly like yourself (just better!) These treatments can help address
signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of facial volume without the use of traditional
dermal fillers and with no risk of looking “fake” or “overfilled” because it is your own body’s
natural tissue, just restored and beginning to function better!
How They Work
Biostimulator injections work by introducing a substance into the skin that encourages the body
to produce collagen and other structures gradually over time. The results are gradual, usually
developing over several weeks to months, which provides a natural look that improves with
time. You’ll basically be aging like a Benjamin Button, just in reverse!
Sculptra: Poly-L-Lactic Acid
Sculptra is made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible synthetic substance. It helps to
restore volume gradually, stimulate dermal collagen synthesis, and improve skin health
supporting a 2 year “Skin Glow” recognized by the FDA!
● Mechanism of Action: Sculptra stimulates collagen production by gradually replacing
lost collagen in the skin. The PLLA particles create a scaffold that helps the body’s own
collagen grow by allowing the fibroblasts to anchor to something and begin producing
collagen again.
● Treatment Areas: Sculptra is typically used for deeper wrinkles and volume loss in the
cheeks, temples, and jawline. It can also be used in parts of the body to help with aging
skin and volume loss!
● Results: The effects of Sculptra are not immediate, but the day of treatment you will feel
full and a little puffy until the water the product is diluted with resorbs into the tissues!
The true results appear gradually over a few months, with optimal results lasting up to
two years.
● Sessions: Multiple treatment sessions are usually required to achieve the desired
results, often spaced several weeks apart, and you will be expected to firmly massage
the treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days to help the product incorporate
and spread evenly in the tissues.
Hyperdilute Radiesse: Calcium Hydroxylapatite
Hyperdilute Radiesse is a modified version of Radiesse, a dermal filler composed of calcium
hydroxylapatite microspheres. When diluted, it provides a more diffuse treatment option that
allows the CaHA to provide an anchor point for inactive fibroblasts to help reorganize the
extracellular matrix, produce collagen types I and III elastin, support angiogenesis, and
production of proteoglycans that help keep the skin hydrated and plump.
● Mechanism of Action: Hyperdilute Radiesse can provide immediate volume with lower
dilutions while also stimulating collagen and elastin production over time. The CaHA
microspheres encourage collagen remodeling, leading to longer-lasting results and
healthy regenerative tissues.
● Treatment Areas: This treatment is particularly effective for larger areas such as the
face, neck, décolletage, and for overall skin quality improvement. It can also be used for
acne scarring, stretch marks, cellulite, and non-surgical butt enhancement.
● Results: Patients often notice an immediate improvement due to the initial volume, with
additional benefits developing over several months. Results can last over a year.
● Sessions: Unlike Sculptra, Hyperdilute Radiesse may require fewer sessions,
depending on the individual’s aesthetic goals and product reconstitution, however
multiple sessions are usually necessary for full correction.
Similarities Between Sculptra and Hyperdilute Radiesse
1. Collagen Stimulation: Both treatments are designed to stimulate the body’s natural
collagen production, leading to improved skin quality and volume.
2. Gradual Results: Neither treatment provides instant gratification; both require time to
see the full effects, making them ideal for those looking for natural-looking
enhancements.
3. Long-Lasting Effects: With proper maintenance, both treatments can offer long-lasting
results, making them a worthwhile investment for patients.
Key Differences
1. Composition: Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid, while Hyperdilute Radiesse
contains calcium hydroxylapatite. This difference affects their specific applications and
the way they integrate into the skin. PLLA also works through an inflammatory cascade
and immune response while Hyperdilute Radiesse acts without inflammation making it
more suited for those with autoimmune issues or impaired wound healing.
2. Immediate vs. Gradual Volume: Hyperdilute Radiesse offers more immediate volume
upon injection depending on reconstitution, while Sculptra's effects are more gradual.
3. Treatment Areas: Sculptra is primarily used for facial volume restoration, whereas
Hyperdilute Radiesse can be used for both facial and body treatments, including areas
like the neck, chest, buttocks, upper knee, thigh, and cellulite correction.
So Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between Sculptra and Hyperdilute Radiesse ultimately depends on your individual
needs and aesthetic goals. Both treatments offer unique benefits that can enhance your natural
beauty and provide lasting results. If you're considering a biostimulator treatment, consult with
one of our highly qualified providers who can help determine the best option for you.
At our med spa, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you achieve your
desired outcomes. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about Sculptra, Hyperdilute
Radiesse, and how we can help you look and feel your best!