Sculptra
in Portsmouth, NH

Sculptra

in Portsmouth, NH

If you’re searching for a non-surgical way to restore facial volume and reduce wrinkles in Portsmouth, Sculptra is an excellent choice. This injectable treatment stimulates the body’s natural collagen production for gradual, natural-looking rejuvenation. Unlike traditional fillers, it offers results lasting up to two years or more by addressing the underlying causes of facial aging rather than simply “filling” lines.

Sculptra is an FDA-approved injectable that works beneath the skin to restore facial volume lost due to aging or illness. At Thrive Med Spa & Wellness, Dr. Nicole Schertell and Dr. Lauren Moore provide advanced Sculptra treatments customized to each patient’s unique aesthetic goals, helping them achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance with little to no downtime.

Table of Contents

What Is Sculptra?

Sculptra is an advanced injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic compound that has been safely used in medical applications for decades. Unlike traditional dermal fillers that provide immediate volume, Sculptra gradually stimulates collagen production, creating subtle, long-lasting improvements in skin structure and fullness.

How Does Sculptra Work?

After injection, Sculptra’s PLLA microparticles trigger your body’s natural collagen-building process. Over several weeks, new collagen fibers form around the injected areas, gradually restoring lost volume, smoothing deep lines and folds, and improving skin elasticity. Because the process relies on your own collagen, results develop gradually for a natural-looking rejuvenation that avoids the “overfilled” appearance.

Sculptra vs. Other Dermal Fillers

Traditional dermal fillers, such as those based on hyaluronic acid, immediately fill lines or add volume. Their results are instant but typically last only 6–12 months. In contrast, Sculptra offers a more gradual approach, with results appearing over a few months and potentially lasting up to two years or longer. This makes Sculptra an ideal option for patients seeking subtle, enduring facial rejuvenation rather than temporary or dramatic changes.

For more about other filler options, visit our dermal fillers page.

Sculptra Treatment Areas

Sculptra is especially effective for addressing facial areas where age-related collagen loss leads to sagging, hollowness, or deep lines. It’s approved to treat:

Buttocks

Nasolabial folds (“smile lines”)

Marionette lines (lines from the corners of the mouth to the chin)

Chin wrinkles

Cheek volume loss

Jawline definition

While Sculptra is primarily used for the body, mid- and lower-face, it can also provide subtle enhancement to the temples, jawline, and even the hands (off-label). It is not typically used for lips or areas requiring precise, immediate contouring.

What to Expect During Your Sculptra Treatment

During your Sculptra appointment, Dr. Nicole Schertell or Dr. Lauren Moore will discuss your goals and assess your facial anatomy to develop a personalized treatment plan. The injections are quick, and most sessions are completed within 30–45 minutes. After treatment, a gentle facial massage may be recommended to ensure even product distribution.

Most patients find Sculptra injections to be well-tolerated. A topical anesthetic or local numbing agent can be used to maximize comfort. Some mild stinging or pressure may be felt at the injection sites, but discomfort is typically minimal and subsides quickly.

Results and Recovery

Sculptra works gradually, so most patients begin to notice visible improvement within 4–6 weeks following their initial session. Full results typically appear after a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, as new collagen continues to develop.

Thanks to its collagen-stimulating effects, Sculptra’s improvements can last up to two years or longer for many patients. Maintenance procedures may be recommended to prolong your refreshed look.

Downtime after Sculptra is minimal. Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment. Common post-injection effects include mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites, which usually resolve within a few days, allowing patients to return to their normal routine. Our provider may recommend massaging the treated area for several days post-treatment to support even results.

Sculptra is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are temporary, including swelling, tenderness, redness, or small bumps at the injection sites. Rarely, lumps or nodules can develop if aftercare instructions are not followed. Any concerns should be discussed promptly with our provider.

Our page about dry skin may be helpful for more information about skin health and aftercare.

Ideal Candidates for Sculptra

Sculptra is suitable for adults seeking to address facial volume loss, deep folds, or contour deficiencies with a natural-looking, long-lasting solution. Ideal candidates are typically:

Sculptra may not be appropriate for individuals with a history of severe allergies to its ingredients, active skin infections, or certain autoimmune conditions. A thorough consultation with Dr. Nicole Schertell or Dr. Lauren Moore will determine if Sculptra suits you.

Benefits of Sculptra

Stimulates Natural Collagen Production

Sculptra supports your body’s ability to replenish lost collagen, the building block for more youthful and smoother skin.

Gradual, Natural-Looking Results

Improvements appear subtly over time, so you look refreshed, not “done.”

Long-Lasting Effects

Results can last up to two years or more, outpacing many other injectables.

Versatile Applications

Suitable for restoring volume loss, correcting hollow areas, improving skin texture, and dealing with sagging skin.

Comfortable Procedure

Sculptra injections are comfortable and easily tolerated, Unlike surgery and other invasive procedures that involve incisions, transfer of excess fat, and other stressful operations. We can also inject a local anesthetic in the targeted areas to make the treatment more comfortable.

Advanced Techniques

Our experienced professionals use the latest techniques to address sunken areas, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, and even deeper creases. After meticulous treatment, patients see noticeable improvements in a few weeks, leading to a glowing complexion.

Sculptra’s unique mechanism means that, once your body has produced new collagen, the results persist even after the product is absorbed. Many patients enjoy their enhanced appearance for 18–24 months, with some reporting improvements for even longer with proper maintenance. Occasional touch-up treatments can help sustain your results.

Sculptra Cost in Portsmouth, NH

The cost of Sculptra in Portsmouth varies depending on the number of vials needed and the areas treated. On average, you can expect to pay $800 to $1,200 per vial in the region, with most full-face treatments requiring two to four vials over a series of sessions. Since Sculptra builds results gradually, treatment plans and costs are highly individualized.

Most patients require an initial series of 2–3 treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart to achieve optimal collagen stimulation and volume restoration. Our provider will recommend a customized plan based on your unique needs and treatment goals.

Patient Reviews

Many clients are thrilled with their Sculptra experience, noting the gradual, natural improvements in facial fullness and definition. Patients often appreciate how the slow-building results help them look refreshed and youthful without apparent signs of having had “work done.” The expertise and attentive care of Dr. Nicole Schertell and Dr. Lauren Moore are key to a positive experience.

Visit Our Innovative Med Spa, Conveniently Located in Portsmouth

Thrive Med Spa & Wellness offers the safest and most effective aesthetic treatments. Our Sculptra fillers provide a unique, long-lasting solution for facial rejuvenation by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. With gradual, natural-looking results and minimal downtime, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking to address facial volume loss or wrinkles without surgery. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Nicole Schertell and Dr. Lauren Moore, Sculptra can help you achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance that lasts.

Sculptra in Portsmouth, NH