Many HIV-positive patients may experience cases of facial lipoatrophy. This is a loss of fat in the face. The condition is described as “highly stigmatizing” by some individuals. Over time, facial lipoatrophy may lead to depression, social isolation, and occupational issues.
Today, injectable fillers like Sculptra can treat HIV-positive individuals and deal with facial volume loss.
What Is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a type of dermal filler that was first introduced in 1999. It received FDA approval in 2004 for treating lipoatrophy in those diagnosed with HIV.
As mentioned above, those with lipoatrophy experience fat loss in the face, which causes deep indentations and folds in the face and sunken cheeks.
The primary ingredient in Sculptra is a collagen stimulator called poly-L-lactic acid. It has been proven to produce natural-looking, long-lasting results that can last for two years – or more.
While Sculptra is effective and safe, it is not recommended for those who suffer from allergies to any ingredients or those with medical conditions that can lead to irregular scarring.
To learn more about our Services with a sculptra treatment for hiv+ patients serving Encino, call 818-905-8815
What Is HIV?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, which is the scientific term, is a virus. It attacks the immune system, causing various issues and symptoms for those who have it. If treatment is not sought, HIV can cause AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Currently, there is no cure for HIV. Once someone develops HIV, they will have it for the rest of their lives.
While this is true, with proper medical care, HIV is controllable. Individuals who develop HIV and receive treatment can live healthy and long lives. They can also protect their partners while enjoying a full relationship with them.
Encino Sculptra Treatment for HIV+ patients Near Me 818-905-8815
What Is Facial Lipodystrophy Syndrome (FLS)?
Lipodystrophy occurs if there is a significant loss of subcutaneous tissue in the face. FLS is characterized by a loss of fat, resulting in facial abnormality (i.e., sunken cheeks) seen.
The cause of this condition a mystery. Doctors believe that the condition occurs because of the drugs used for HIV treatment, the actual HIV infection, and other factors.
How Sculptra Works for Facial Lipoatrophy from HIV
Even though the cause of lipodystrophy is still a mystery, you can receive treatment to address how it affects the face, legs, buttocks, and arms. With Sculptra injections, it is possible to improve the look of the skin while boosting soft tissue growth.
Sculptra is one of just two dermal fillers approved by the FDA to treat HIV-related facial lipoatrophy. It is the injectable form of poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible and biodegradable synthetic polymer used for dissolvable stitches, bone screws, and facial implants. When Sculptra is used for HIV patients, it works as a collagen biostimulator.
As the bioparticles of the Sculptra are absorbed in the body, it causes the immune system to respond, which creates fibroblasts around the filler particles. The fibroblast activity encourages the body to create more collagen at the treatment site, which causes the skin to firm up and thicken.
What Is It Like for HIV Patients to Have the Sculptra Treatment?
Sculptra is a popular dermal filler that is often injected into the skin to help reduce the appearance of facial folds and wrinkles. For those with HIV, the Sculptra treatment can effectively restore fullness in the face after just a few months of being treated.
The treatment process for HIV patients begins with a consultation. During this, you will need to provide your medical history, allergies, and medical conditions. The number of treatments you will need depends on your goals for the facial injectable. On average, HIV patients will undergo three injections that are spaced out every three or four months.
On the day of your first treatment, the following may occur:
- Your technician will map out the injection sites on your skin and clean these areas.
- After cleansing the treatment areas, a topical anesthetic may be applied to help ease discomfort.
- The technician will use several small injections to inject your skin with the Sculptra filler.
- Once the treatment is complete, your technician will likely provide aftercare instructions, but it is possible to resume your normal routine and activities immediately.
- You may require follow-up treatments to maintain the results.
Even though the Sculptra treatment is most successful in treating lipodystrophy syndrome, some people experience side effects. Some of the most common side effects include the following:
- Nodules, bumps, or lumps
- Itching
- Skin discoloration
- Pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Tenderness
Your best chance of avoiding these side effects is to make sure that you come to a professional (like us) for treatment. You should not undergo this procedure if you are allergic to the Sculptra ingredients, if you have active skin infections, rashes, cysts, acne, or sores, or are prone to irregular scarring.
Studies conducted on the impact of Sculptra treatment have found that it can help to improve the quality of life of HIV-positive patients. It can also effectively reduce cases of depression and anxiety that are often seen in those dealing with lipoatrophy.
What Is the Best Option: Sculptra or Radiesse?
Besides Sculptra, the only other FDA-approved injectable for treating lipoatrophy is Radiesse. However, these two products have significant differences.
For example, Radiesse offers a non-inflammatory method to stimulate fibroblast production.
While this is true, both products are effective and work well. It is up to the individual to decide what treatment best suits their needs and goals. We offer a consultation appointment to discuss your options and help you decide the best course of treatment.
Click to contact our Sculptra Team today
If I Have HIV/FLS, Can I Get Sculptra for Free? (Yes, if Approved)
If you are approved, it is possible to have Sculptra applied at no charge to you.
We understand the difficulties that come with skin conditions. We offer the solutions you need to feel confident when you look in the mirror. We are ready to help you achieve your goals and get the results you want.
Call Glow Aesthetic Center for a free consultation to see if you are a candidate.
Call 818-905-8815 or complete a free case evaluation form
