View Specials

Sculptra in Irvine, CA

Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012

About Sculptra

Sculptra is an injectable collagen stimulator that gradually restores lost facial volume, softens wrinkles, and enhances skin firmness by activating your body’s own regenerative process. Ideal for patients seeking natural, long-lasting rejuvenation without surgery, this treatment can refresh facial contours or subtly lift and firm the buttocks. Results evolve over several months, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin that feels authentically you.

Procedure Quick Facts

Duration of Procedure:
30-60 minutes
Anesthesia:
Topical numbing or local anesthesia
Recovery:
Minimal downtime; mild swelling or bruising for a few days
Results Duration:
Up to two years or longer

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is an injectable treatment made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible substance that stimulates your skin to produce new collagen. Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers that simply add temporary volume, Sculptra works deep within the dermis to rebuild the skin’s structural foundation. Over a series of appointments, microscopic PLLA particles activate natural collagen synthesis, gradually restoring firmness, thickness, and youthful contours. Because collagen generation takes time, results appear subtly and progressively, culminating in smoother skin and improved volume that can last two years or more. This slow, steady improvement makes Sculptra an excellent option for patients who want understated, natural-looking rejuvenation without showing obvious signs of having “had work done.”

What Sculptra Can Do for You

If you're interested in long-lasting rejuvenation, South Coast Plastic Surgery can guide you through every step. Dr. Mark Song and our experienced aesthetic nurse injectors will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your concerns and helps you look as vibrant as you feel.
  • Gradual, Natural-Looking Improvement
    Because Sculptra stimulates your own collagen production, volume and firmness build slowly over several months, avoiding the sudden change often associated with traditional fillers.
  • Long-Lasting Collagen Regeneration
    Results commonly last up to two years or longer, making Sculptra a cost-effective choice for patients who prefer fewer maintenance appointments.
  • Versatile Face and Body Applications
    From lifting sunken cheeks to enhancing the buttocks, Sculptra can be used in multiple areas to improve contours and correct volume loss.
  • Minimal Downtime and Non-Surgical
    Treatments take less than an hour, involve only tiny injections, and allow most patients to resume daily activities immediately.
  • Improved Skin Quality Over Time
    By encouraging fresh collagen and elastin, Sculptra not only adds volume but also enhances skin thickness, firmness, and overall radiance.
  • Subtle Buttock Lift Without Fat Transfer
    For those lacking sufficient donor fat, a Sculptra BBL can create a rounder, smoother, and more lifted appearance without surgery or prolonged recovery.

Sculptra Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

No items found.

Key Benefits of Sculptra

Stimulates natural collagen to restore youthful skin density and firmness
Provides subtle volumization that develops gradually for discreet enhancement
Offers results that can last up to two years with minimal maintenance
Can improve buttock contour for patients who lack sufficient donor fat

Types of Sculptra

Facial Volumization

Targeted injections in the cheeks, temples, and mid-face rebuild lost volume, soften nasolabial folds, and create a refreshed, youthful contour. Ideal for patients noticing age-related hollowing or sagging.

Sculptra BBL (Non-Surgical Butt Lift)

Strategic placement of Sculptra in the buttocks stimulates collagen, thickens skin, and adds subtle projection. A great alternative for those without enough fat for traditional Brazilian butt lift surgery.

Fine Line & Wrinkle Refinement

Smaller aliquots of Sculptra can be used around the chin, mouth, or jawline to improve etched lines and overall skin texture, providing a smoother, firmer appearance.

Not sure which option is right for you?

Meet your Sculptra surgeons

Dr. Mark Song and our aesthetic nurse injectors have performed hundreds of Sculptra treatments, combining deep anatomical knowledge with an artistic eye for subtle, balanced rejuvenation. Their gentle technique and personalized approach ensure a comfortable experience and results that enhance—never overpower—your natural beauty.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Sculptra?

Beauty Inside-Out

We care for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every treatment is provided with warmth and exceptional care to help you feel confident and supported

Clear Expectations from the Start

Share your goals in detail before you even arrive using Adoreal's personalized assessment. Your specialist will understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve before your consultation begins, making your visit more focused and personal

Dedicated Follow-Up Support

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Our team provides personalized check-ins to monitor your results, answer any questions, and make sure you're completely satisfied with your outcome.

Precision & Artistry

Your treatment is performed by highly trained specialists
who understand facial anatomy at the deepest level. We combine technical precision with an artistic eye to enhance your natural beauty while keeping you looking like you

A Customized Approach to Injectable Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

Your skin’s needs are as unique as you are. We carefully determine vial count, injection depth, and treatment intervals to ensure results that align with your goals, lifestyle, and natural facial dynamics.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline.

Advanced Safety Protocols

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored to your unique goals from the moment you walk in.

Our provider will also assess individual factors such as skin thickness, existing volume loss, and facial symmetry, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.

Am I a good candidate for Sculptra?

Your consultation is a private, personalized experience designed around your goals.
Generally healthy without active skin infections
Non-smoker or willing to avoid smoking around treatment
Realistic expectations about gradual progression of results
Desire for subtle, natural-looking volume restoration
Adequate skin quality to respond to collagen stimulation
Commitment to completing the recommended series of sessions
No allergy to any Sculptra ingredients

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

Step 1/4

Your Information

Step 2/4

Your Goals

What are you hoping to achieve with Sculptra?

Step 3/4

Your Concerns

What concerns you most about Sculptra?

Step 4/4

Timeline & Preference

Secure and confidential

HIPAA-compliant

No Obligation Consultation

Complimentary consultation

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Your Sculptra Journey and Recovery

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Mark Song or an experienced nurse injector. This visit focuses on understanding your goals and evaluating whether Sculptra will achieve your desired outcome.

During your consultation, your provider will:

  • Discuss your aesthetic goals and areas of concern
  • Review medical history and current medications
  • Evaluate facial anatomy or buttock contour
  • Explain how Sculptra stimulates collagen over time
  • Map out a personalized treatment plan and cost estimate

Together, you'll create a plan that aligns with your anatomy, timeline, and comfort, prioritizing safety and natural results.

The Sculptra Procedure

Treatments are performed in our comfortable medspa suite using topical numbing or local anesthesia to maximize comfort.

During the procedure:

  • Skin is cleansed and topical anesthetic applied
  • Injection sites are precisely marked for symmetry
  • Sculptra is injected into the deep dermis using microcannulas or fine needles
  • Gentle massage distributes the product evenly

After the final injection, your provider will massage the area once more and provide instructions for self-massage at home.

Sculptra Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences are typically mild, but everyone heals at their own pace.

Immediately after treatment
Expect slight swelling, redness, or bruising; most patients return to normal activities the same day.

First few days

  • Apply ice packs as directed
  • Perform the 5-5-5 massage (five minutes, five times a day, for five days)
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours

Weeks 1-2

  • Bruising and swelling resolve
  • Subtle changes may begin to appear
  • Schedule next session if part of a series

Weeks 3-4

  • Collagen production increases
  • Skin feels firmer and looks more refreshed

You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions and have direct access to our team for any questions.

Your Sculptra Results

Sculptra results unfold gradually as collagen builds, delivering a refreshed appearance that looks entirely your own.

Early results
Subtle volume and firmness become noticeable within 4-6 weeks.

Following weeks
Improvements continue as collagen networks strengthen and skin thickens.

Final results
Around three months after your last session, full results are visible and can last two years or more.

With healthy lifestyle habits and periodic touch-ups, many patients enjoy sustained improvement well beyond the typical two-year mark.

  • Days 3 - 5
  • Week 1 - 2
  • Week 2 - 3
  • Week 4 - 6

  • Month 2 - 3
  • Month 4 - 6
  • Long time

Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

Gradually restores volume by stimulating your own collagen. Ideal for long-lasting, subtle rejuvenation of the face and buttocks.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Provide immediate volume and can be dissolved if needed. Best for patients seeking instant results or precise contouring of smaller areas.

Sculptra Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how Sculptra works and what to expect helps you make an informed decision and feel confident in your journey.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Because Sculptra rebuilds your own collagen, the enhancement emerges slowly, mirroring natural tissue changes rather than creating an immediate, noticeable difference. Our providers calibrate vial quantity and injection depth according to your facial structure, ensuring balanced contours and avoiding over-correction. Your lifestyle, genetics, and overall skin quality also influence your final look, and we’ll discuss realistic expectations so you love the refined, yet unmistakably ‘you,’ outcome.

Where Are the Incisions?

Sculptra is administered through tiny needle or cannula entry points; no surgical incisions are required.

Micro-needle entry points on the face

Entry points are so small they usually close within hours and fade without noticeable marks.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Because only fine needles or cannulas are used, visible scarring is extremely rare. Mild redness at injection sites typically resolves within a day or two.

Scar Healing Timeline

While scarring is uncommon, normal healing of tiny entry points follows this general pattern:

Hours 1-24
Pin-point marks may appear slightly red

Days 1-3
Redness subsides; marks begin to blend with surrounding skin

Week 1
Entry points usually no longer visible

1-2 weeks
Skin fully normalizes with no lasting sign of treatment

Following cleansing and massage instructions supports quick healing and optimal results.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Medical examination room with a treatment table covered in white sheets and various medical equipment against the walls.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Sculptra is FDA-approved and widely regarded as safe when administered by qualified medical professionals in an accredited setting. However, all injectable treatments carry potential risks.

Potential risks may include:

  • Bruising or swelling at injection sites
  • Temporary tenderness or itching
  • Small nodules under the skin
  • Asymmetry if aftercare massage is inconsistent
  • Infection (rare)
  • Allergic reaction (extremely rare)

Your provider will review these risks in detail and explain how they are minimized through precise technique and thorough aftercare.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe Sculptra experience include:

  • Comprehensive medical evaluation before treatment
  • Use of sterile technique and single-use supplies
  • Ultrasound-guided injections when appropriate
  • Detailed aftercare instructions, including massage protocol

By following your provider’s guidance and attending recommended follow-up visits, you can enjoy a smooth recovery and beautiful results.

How Much Does Sculptra Cost in Irvine, CA?

The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.

Financing options available through:
Book your consultation

Trusted by Our Community

Google logo with multicolored stylized letter G.

4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Frequently Asked Questions About Sculptra

Everything you need to know about Sculptra, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

How is Sculptra different from traditional fillers?
Most fillers provide immediate volume by occupying space, whereas Sculptra stimulates your body to grow new collagen, leading to gradual, longer-lasting improvement.
How many Sculptra sessions will I need?
Many patients undergo a series of two to four sessions spaced about four to six weeks apart, but your exact plan depends on your goals and degree of volume loss.
Is the treatment painful?
Discomfort is minimal. We apply topical numbing or mix lidocaine with the product, and most patients describe only mild pressure or stinging.
When can I return to work after Sculptra?
Most people feel comfortable returning to work the same day or the following day, as any swelling or redness is usually mild.

Recovery & Results

How soon will I see results?
Because collagen production takes time, you may notice subtle changes within a month, with full results appearing about three months after your final session.
How long do Sculptra results last?
Results commonly last up to two years, though individual longevity can vary based on age, metabolism, and lifestyle.
What are the common side effects?
Temporary swelling, bruising, tenderness, and small lumps may occur, but these typically resolve with massage and time.
Can Sculptra be reversed if I’m unhappy?
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Sculptra cannot be dissolved. Thorough consultation and conservative dosing help ensure satisfaction from the start.

Safety & Risks

Is Sculptra covered by insurance?
Sculptra is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, so it is not covered by health insurance plans.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to offer convenient financing options, often with 0% interest promotional periods.
Will I need maintenance treatments?
Most patients schedule a touch-up session every 18-24 months to maintain optimal collagen levels and volume.
How can I prolong my results?
Protecting your skin from the sun, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and following a medical-grade skincare routine can help preserve your collagen and extend results.

Cost & Insurance

Is Sculptra covered by insurance?
Sculptra is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, so it is not covered by health insurance plans.
Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, We partner with Cherry and CareCredit to offer convenient monthly payment plans for qualified applicants.

Still have questions?

Blog

Read Our Latest Articles

No items found.

Meet the people that make it all happen.

Discover how our expert team can help you achieve your goals.