Sculptra Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for sculptra: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
How Sculptra works
- •Sculptra is a collagen stimulator, not an instant filler.
- •Results are gradual and natural-looking, building over weeks to months.
- •A series of sessions is usually needed.
Why the 5-5-5 rule matters
- •Massaging 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days helps the product settle evenly and lowers the chance of nodules.
Sculptra recovery, day by day
Start the 5-5-5 rule today
- Massage each treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days, starting today.
- This spreads the product evenly and helps prevent lumps or small nodules.
- Do not over-massage beyond the 5-5-5 routine.
Rest of the day
- Ice briefly for any swelling.
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours and sleep on your back the first couple of nights.
- Drink plenty of water. Building collagen depends on good hydration.
- Follow the personalized medication schedule from your procedure team and prescribing clinician. Contact them before making any medication changes.
Keep massaging while early fullness settles
- Continue the 5-minute massage, 5 times a day, through day 5.
- Mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness is normal and can make you look fuller at first.
- That early fullness comes from temporary swelling and should ease as the area settles.
The gradual part begins
- As the initial swelling settles, you may look much like you did before treatment. This is expected.
- Sculptra works gradually by stimulating your own collagen. Results build over 6 to 12 weeks.
- Several sessions, usually 4 to 6 weeks apart, are typically planned for the full effect.
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call your care team today if you notice: A firm lump or nodule that is growing, painful, red, or warm.
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Severe or increasing pain, or skin turning white or dusky, rare vascular issue. Call immediately.
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Signs of infection: spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever.
- •Call 911 now if you notice: Signs of an allergic reaction: hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 0
Treated. Start 5-5-5
Begin the 5-minute, 5-times-a-day, 5-day massage today. Early fullness is just swelling.
- Day 5
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 14
Result Building
Collagen continues to build over the coming weeks. A follow-up session may be planned.
For clinics
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