Sculptra

	injectable article: In Your Face

Prof. Kirwan was recently appointed a European and US consultant to Dermik (Sanofi-Aventis), the manufacturer of Sculptra. He gave two instructional courses on injection techniques for Sculptra to a total of twenty visiting ear nose and throat, dermatologic and plastic surgeons from the United States.

Prof. Kirwan's instructional course took place in his Harley Street office on June 5 and June 12, 2004. He also gave a lecture to US consultants in Chicago, earlier this year.

Sculptra video clip: Nov. 2004, Channel 3 News. Sculptra: the latest anti-aging injectable product.  Click image to view video (You need the RealTime plug-in to view our video clip)

Prof. Kirwan was invited to talk about "New Soft Tissue Fillers" at the "Hot Topics Section" of the Annual meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons 10/09/04 in Philadelphia and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 04/28/05 ANNUAL MEETING in New Orleans.

Wrinkles and folds occur because, as we age, the production of collagen in the skin is slowed. Sculptra is an injectable product that activates the production of new collagen. This means that the body itself produces the collagen needed to rejuvenate the skin.

Sculptra is a natural product consisting of lactic acid polymers derived from fruits and beets processed into a hydro-gel. Lactic acid has been used for as long as 25 years in surgery procedures as suture material or as a bone implant for bone-regeneration. It is applied to bone in dental surgery procedures. Because it is a natural product, allergic responses do not occur. Sculptra is biologically degradable and is completely absorbed by the body.

According to the international standards of the European Pharmaceutical Committee, lactic acid polymers are suitable for treating wrinkles and furrows in the skin. Sculptra is produced in accordance with strict international standards. The effect of Sculptra is two-fold: First, Sculptra restores tissue volume. It also stimulates the production of new, natural collagen in the skin.

The effects of a Sculptra treatment should last for two-three years (according to published studies), and depending upon the number of treatments you receive. If required, post- treatment may be undertaken after a few years to maintain optimal results. At least two to three and as many as five to seven treatments may be required, given at 4-6 week intervals.

Areas treated:

• Sunken temples
• Wrinkles and dark circles around / under the eyes
• 'Tear-trough' depressions
• Restoring / accentuating cheek contours
• Folds between the nose and mouth (naso-labial lines)
• Marionette lines around the mouth
• Contours of the chin and jaw
• Neck and forehead wrinkles
• Hand