Sculptra Aftercare

The 5-5-5 massage rule

Massage is the single most important thing you can do for a smooth result. It spreads the product evenly and reduces the risk of lumps forming.

• Massage the treated areas for five minutes, five times a day, for five days.
• Use a gentle but firm touch, and follow the technique John shows you.
• Apart from your massages, try not to touch or press on the treated areas.

Straight after treatment

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth for 10–15 minutes at a time, a few times on the day of treatment.
• For discomfort, take paracetamol. Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin unless John advises otherwise, as they can increase bruising.

The first few days

• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot showers, sunbeds and alcohol for 48 hours.
• Sleep with your head raised on an extra pillow for the first few nights to reduce swelling.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Keep the skin clean and use SPF daily.

What’s normal

• Mild swelling for two to three days, and redness that settles within a day.
• Tenderness and possible bruising, which fades within a week.
• The initial fullness goes down as the swelling settles. Collagen then builds gradually over the following weeks and months.

Longer term

• Attend all your follow-up appointments. These are when John assesses progress and decides whether further sessions are needed.
• Check with John before having any other facial treatments, such as laser or chemical peels.
• Protect your skin from the sun and keep up a healthy routine.
• Unlike hyaluronic acid filler, Sculptra can’t be dissolved — which is why following the massage routine matters.