Sculptra London | UK's Most Advance Clinic

At the London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, we are proud to be recognised as one of the leading centres for Sculptra treatments in the UK and Europe. Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi is widely regarded as a global authority on Sculptra, training surgeons internationally and having personally performed more than 13,000 Sculptra treatments at our clinic.

Sculptra is a long-lasting, clinically proven injectable treatment that works by gradually stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production. It helps soften lines and wrinkles, restore facial volume, and subtly recontour the face with results that develop progressively and look completely natural.

As one of the most advanced treatments for collagen regeneration, scar improvement and overall facial rejuvenation, Sculptra continues to shape the future of aesthetic medicine. Its discreet, minimally invasive approach allows patients to achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance without the need for surgery or downtime, making it an ideal option for those seeking natural, long-term enhancement.

Sculptra is the ultimate treatment for patients who desire a subtle, gradual, and long-lasting solution. As a non-invasive injectable treatment that stimulates collagen, Sculptra is an effective and safe method for softening lines and deep wrinkles, creating facial volumisation, and enhancing facial contours.

The science behind this advanced product supports the stimulation of the patient’s own collagen over an extended period, setting it apart from traditional fillers. The natural-looking results last between 2 to 5 years.

Sculptra works differently from traditional dermal fillers. It is a unique collagen-replenishing treatment that gradually and subtly reduces lines, wrinkles, and folds. By helping to replenish the body’s facial collagen and restore lost volume, it can provide a fuller, more natural look that lasts for up to 2 to 5 years.

Sculptra Use

It is considered to be a discreet approach to achieving a fresher, younger-looking appearance, probably used by many Hollywood stars who deny having surgery but look to have defied age and remain still naturally good looking without a “done” plastic appearance.

The primary component of Sculptra is Poly-L-lactic acid, which has been successfully used in aesthetic medicine for over 50 years. Examples of which, range from acting as a medium for medication to being used in bone plates and screws in surgery.

Sculptra was initially used to treat facial atrophy, but its cosmetic use has since been pioneered by Dr Ayoubi for the following:

Facial Volumisation
Collagen Stimulation
Scar Treatment
Facial Asymmetry
Cellulite reduction
Buttock Enhancement

Poly-L-lactic acid, the main ingredient of Sculptra has been used successfully in surgical procedures for more than 50 years, among others for bio-resorbable sutures, in bone plates and screws, and as a medium for medication.

Sculptra is able to be used safely to restore facial volumisation and fat which has been lost due to extrinsic and intrinsic ageing, in addition to treating scars. Typically, Sculptra is used to treat marionette lines, sagging jowls, and wrinkles on hands, wrinkles of décolletage and hollow cheeks/temples.

Sculptra can thus fill areas of volume-loss through stimulating deep tissue. Through its injection into the dermal-subcutaneous junction, Sculptra is able to soften and smooth deep wrinkles and lines in conjunction with restoring facial volume, gradually.

It can be used for loss of fat and soft tissue in the face, premature ageing of the face, hollow cheeks and temples, nose to mouth folds, deep folds and wrinkles, marionette lines, sagging jowls, wrinkly chest / decolletage, wrinkly hands, deep acne and traumatic scarring.

A clinical study “Facial Enhancement and the European Experience with Sculptra” by Doctor Danny Vleggaar and Dr Ute Bauer was published in Drugs Dermatology Journal in 2004, showed that due to the Sculptra volume-enhancing mechanism, it has the ability to cosmetically augment facial areas with volume deficits and in doing so reduces the outward appearance of wrinkles and folds.

Sculptra is used on most parts of the face (except on the forehead and above the lips). Common areas of use include cheeks, temples, infra-malar region, chin, pre jowl sulcus, and marionette lines.

More advanced areas include infraorbital regions and lateral brow. Creative uses have been reported in the treatment of acne, deep acne scarring and varicella scars, chest wall, prominent facial asymmetry and the dorsum of the hands

Sculptra is ideal to be used for deep tissue filling or in the dermal subcutaneous junction to smooth out and soften lines and wrinkles, restore facial volume, contour the face in a natural way. It is not meant to be injected intradermally.

According to the clinical study “Sculptra – injectable poly-L-lactic acid” by Keni SP and Sidle DM, published in Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics, showed that Sculptra treatment for facial lipoatrophy has been shown to increase skin thickness for up to 2 years.

As it differs from traditional, static dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, as a stimulatory product it causes the growth of fibrous tissue or collagen within the body, which then results in volume restoration gradually.

Sculptra Aesthetic works within the deep dermis, the skin’s structure is reinforced as Sculptra Aesthetic helps to replace lost collagen. This reinforced collagen structure provides a foundation that gradually restores the look of fullness of shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds that have been depleted over time.

The results of Sculptra Aesthetic are different because Sculptra gradually and subtly corrects these facial wrinkles. This can provide a refined, more youthful looking appearance that can last from two- five years.

Sculptra can be used for Scars, Facial Asymmetry and Aging Hands, nevertheless, It requires a special understanding of how it works, where it can be used, and how it should be injected.

Sculptra differs from other dermal fillers due to its nature of stimulating collagen. Other dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid merely replace the loss of volume, whereas Sculptra encourages the body to naturally replace the collagen which has been lost due to age or trauma.

Cellulite and dimpling of skin can also be treated be Sculptra. The product is able to correct indentations of skin anywhere on the body through encouraging collagen regeneration.

The nature of Sculptra treatment means that results vary between patients and last for varying lengths of time. Patients can expect results to last from between 2-5 years.

Sculptra Suitability

Sculptra is a treatment option for men and women of different ages, who wish to improve the appearance of sunken cheeks, deep wrinkles, deep folds around the mouth and nose, facial asymmetry, facial scars, deep acne scars and loose skin.

In the 20s:	Collagen production slows down and then becomes dormant. This is an ideal time to start Sculptra to keep the collagen reserves active and for skin tightening.
In the 30s/ 40s:	Sculptra is ideal for long lasting lines and wrinkle correction, enhances cheek volume and stimulates collagen in a natural way.
In the 50s and onward:	Sculptra is ideal to restore facial contours and volume and correct facial laxity and improve the jaw line and other areas. Patients can achieve full face lifting without the need for aggressive surgery with the results lasting up to 5 years.

A review at our clinic has shown that the improvements obtained with Sculptra have lasted for up to 2-5 years. Treatment usually consists of 2 to 4 sessions lasting up to half an hour; usually2-3 weeks apart with no ‘downtime’.

Before and After photo gallery

Sculptr for Skin Rejuvenation & Facial Volumization by Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi

The before and after photos above are just an example of Sculptr treatment. The results vary from one patient to another and there is no guarantee that all patients who will have the procedure will have similar results. A thorough consultation and clinic assessment is essential for all patients.

Sculptr for Skin Rejuvenation & Facial Volumization by Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi

How does Sculptra work?

As time passes, our skin loses its full, firm, youthful appearance. It becomes thinner, starts to wrinkle, and the fat tissue that helps fill out our faces diminishes, causing the skin to sag and wrinkle further. For some, this loss of fat tissue and reduction in skin volume can make their face appear thin, tired, and older than they actually are.

Sculptra stimulates the body’s own collagen production, reducing lines and deep wrinkles, and creating a youthful appearance with natural-looking results.

Sculptra is a biocompatible, resorbable injectable product composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). It belongs to a class of stimulatory products that encourage neo-collagenases when injected. Sculptra is a synthetic polymer from the α-hydroxy-acid family, similar to absorbable suture material.

Sculptra Aesthetic works to replace lost collagen through a series of treatments administered by Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi at our Sculptra clinic in London. On average, two to four injection sessions are required, with 2–8 week gaps between each session. The number of sessions and injections per session vary from person to person.

Sculptra treats most areas of the face that may have deeper lines, wrinkles, folds, or a loss of soft tissue, fat, and volume. While results can sometimes show immediately, it typically takes around 2–4 weeks to see significant improvement (though in some patients, this may take longer or require more treatments).

Unlike surgical options, Sculptra provides gradual, natural-looking results with less invasive treatment. Patients can achieve a full face-lifting effect, which typically lasts for 2–4 years.

Sculptra requires education because it is administered over three or more sessions, usually over a 3-month period, with ultimate results appearing over a 4–6 month timeframe. Patients unwilling or unable to wait for improvement may need additional augmentation with hyaluronic acid in the meantime.

Due to the water in the suspension, patients will leave the office looking filled; however, this initial fullness will disappear in 2–4 days, and the collagen growth will begin to show after 2–4 weeks. Patients should also be aware of the potential for bruising and avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications before injections.

Sculptra treatment planning should be spread over a 2–12 week period. Most patients require three treatments at 2–3 week intervals. Final results are typically visible between 6–10 months following treatment. Younger patients, particularly those in their 20s, tend to report visible results 3–4 months after their first treatment.

The natural ageing process causes the skin to lose volume, firmness, and elasticity as collagen production decreases, leading to thinner skin and the development of wrinkles.

This loss of facial volume is not exclusive to ageing individuals; those who lose weight also experience it. Weight loss often begins in the face, creating a tired and gaunt appearance.

Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi personally conducts Sculptra treatments at London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic. On average, 2–4 sessions are required over a 3–8 week period. The number of sessions and injections needed depends on the individual patient. While Sculptra results usually become visible after 2–4 weeks, it is difficult to predict, as each patient is different.

Each patient is individually evaluated at the start of their treatment, and often more than one session is necessary. Patients with severe facial volume loss typically require 4–5 sessions.

Sculptra also differs from surgical procedures in that it delivers gradual results, allowing for a more natural-looking outcome. Additionally, it offers a less invasive and less traumatic option for patients. A full face-lifting effect can be achieved after several sessions, lasting between 2–5 years.

Sculptra can also be used to treat acne scars, scars resulting from facial trauma, and to enhance the appearance of the dorsum of the hands and facial contours for a more youthful look.

Sculptra Treatment

Poly-L-lactic acid micro-particles form the key component of Sculptra. This natural product is then mixed with 2 ml 1% Lidocaine and 6 ml of sterile water 24 hours prior to treatment. No skin testing is not required before hand as the product is biocompatible.

The procedure itself takes around 30 minutes to perform. Patients tend to describe the process as “uncomfortable” rather than painful, however, we use a topical anaesthetic cream to minimise any discomfort. The Sculptra product is injected beneath into the adipose tissue of the face, into the skin’s dermis.

Following a patient’s first treatment, it may appear that results are achieved immediately. Patients often experience minor oedema at the site of injection, but this is temporary. The Sculptra procedure mechanism stimulates a foreign-body reaction and stimulates the production of collagen. This process is characterized by an increased number of mast cells, macrophages and lymphocytes.

The tissue which is formed as a result appears natural, the facial contours appear normal and the restored volume to the face does not appear false. As a result, cheek bones appear more defined and cheeks appear rounder and more youthful in appearance.

Patients who typically receive 4 injections at injections 2-4 week intervals, demonstrate signs of breaking down the Sculptra at around 6 – 9 months following injection. At around 9 -12 months following treatment, the Sculptra product tends to have reabsorbed. Clinical studies have repeatedly indicated that the effects last for at least 2 – 5 years following treatment.

The edema created through injection, as previously mentioned, usually resolves after several hours to a few days. This results in the “reappearance” of original contour deficiencies. Sculptra works by gradually correcting the depression in the skin.

Sculptra Safety

The science behind Sculptra involves more than 50 years of use in human medical applications. From absorbable sutures to resorbable screws, it has proven to be biocompatible, well tolerated, and effective.

Sculptra is officially approved by MHRA in the UK and the FDA in the USA and for restoration and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) and is used for treating facial lines and wrinkles.

Poly-L-lactic acid, from the hydroxyl-acid family, is the main component of Sculptra and is a resorbable suture material. Sculptra has been used clinically for more than 50 years in human medical applications, some of which include resorbable medical screws and absorbable surgical sutures, dental implants, medical pins, medical plates, dental implants and as vectors for sustained release of bio-active compounds.

As Sculptra is a natural product which is bio-compatible and thus resolvable, it is readily tolerated by the human body and is safe to be injected. Sculptra treatment is an effective method for long-term correction of facial volume depreciation, by creating natural results.

‘Safety-investigator’-initiated clinical studies of Sculptra in human patients has indicated that the product is well tolerated by patients, without any adverse side effects.

Sculptra is therefore incredibly safe to use as long as it is used by a qualified, skilled plastic surgeon or doctor. In recent years, Sculptra treatment techniques have been modified and refined to produce the very best results whilst minimizing any side effects.

Occasionally, but very rarely, subcutaneous papules can form. These are not visible to the eye and are only detectable through touch. They typically form at the site of injection.

This side effect is usually as a result of Sculptra being injected too superficially, thus causing a lump of product or collagen to form. Nevertheless, vigorous massage often prevents this side effect from occurring and patients are fully-instructed on how to carry out post-operative care once they leave the clinic. Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi has performed thousands of Sculptra procedures at our clinic and has yet to witness such a side effect.

Understanding of how the treatment works and where the product can be injected is imperative, Neo-collagenases is stimulated through the injection of Sculptra into areas of treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid belongs to a family of stimulatory components and is entirely bio-compatible.

Sculptra is able to be injected into the face safely, with the exception of the forehead and adjacent to the upper lip. Areas most commonly injected include the infra malar region, chin, jowls and marionette lines, cheeks, temples, chin, pre-jowl sulcus, and marionette lines. Under eyes and lateral brows are deemed to be more difficult areas of injection.

Sculptra results studies indicated improvement in appearance for 3 – 5 years. Typically, 2 – 4 sessions are required. It is usual for treatments to be carried out 2 – 4 weeks apart. Treatments do not require ‘downtime.’

Immediate side effects may include injection-related events at the site of injection, such as minimum redness, slight tenderness or discomfort, some bruising and rarely swelling. All of these immediate side effects usually last only five- seven days.

A delayed appearance of small bumps under the skin in the treated area could rarely occur. Generally these bumps are not visible and may only be noticed when pressing on the treated area. This rare side effect is usually an effect of the product being injected too superficially causing a lump of product or collagen to form, but vigorous massage usually prevents this.

Patient Expectations

It’s imperative that patients understand the scientific mechanism of Sculptra prior to treatment. Stimulatory products such as Sculptra must be administered in sessions and gradually introduced to the body. Sculptra is conducted in 2- 4 sessions covering a 2-3-month period. Optimum results can be achieved over a 4 – 6-month period.

Patients who desire immediate improvement may require additional augmentation through the injection of hyaluronic acid, to tide them over for the meantime.

The volume of water used to suspend the Sculptra product is relatively great, therefore patients can leave the clinic feeling facial volume has increased. Patients should understand that this immediate improvement will subside within 2 – 4 days and that patients must then wait for collagen stimulation to commence from between week 2 – 4.

Patients must also appreciate that as the product is injected, bruising may occur. If this is the case, bruising will typically last for 2-4 days. Patients should avoid taking any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications during this period.

Once a patient is happy with the facial volumisation achieved, results can be expected to last up to 2-5 years, according to Dr Ayoubi. To maintain this desired effect, touch-up procedures might be advised for certain individuals. Non-smoking patients have longer lasting results, as smoking reduces the blood supply to the skin and dehydrates the skin throughout the collagen stimulation process.

Injection-related issues such as minor redness and discomfort can be expected immediately after treatment. Some swelling and bruising may also occur but will be temporary and last only for a few days.

Most patients feel comfortable going back to their normal daily activities immediately following the Sculptra treatment.

Sculptra Vs Dermal Fillers

Sculptra differs from other traditional dermal fillers as it replenishes collagen within the skin. Sculptra stimulates this process gradually, creating long-lasting results which appear entirely natural. Renewal of one’s own facial collagen to restore facial volume, smooth wrinkles and define contours enables results to last between 2 – 3 years.

The process of collagen stimulation occurs over several months to restore lost facial volume, whereas traditional filler merely offers immediate results. This restored volume created is therefore a patient’s own body’s response to the product. Results appear natural and feel smooth and plump to the touch.

Sculptra does not fill the space and merely form immediate results like traditional fillers, but causes collagen stimulation and growth of fibrous tissue, whilst gradually restoring volume.

Traditional dermal fillers tend to require revision every 6 months, whereas Sculptra acts over a longer period of time and is thus more cost-effective and easier to maintain for a patient.

Advanced Sculptra By Dr Ayoubi

Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi has spent many years inventing and developing his own advanced Sculptra techniques. He is renowned for his use of Sculptra in treating deep acne scars, facial asymmetry, and traumatic scarring through his Double V and Tear Duct techniques, which have since been adopted by numerous plastic surgeons worldwide.

At London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, we take pride in having treated thousands of patients under Dr Ayoubi’s care, helping them reverse the signs of ageing through Sculptra.

Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi has successfully treated both female and male patients for acne scars and deep traumatic scars on the face and body through multiple Sculptra sessions. Sculptra can also be injected to improve the appearance of the décolletage (wrinkled chest area), as well as to reverse signs of ageing on the hands.

Patients travel from all over the UK and around the world to have Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi perform Sculptra treatments at London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic, which is one of the leading training centres for Sculptra in the UK and Europe.

Sculptra FAQs

Below are clear answers to the questions patients ask us most often about Sculptra at the London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic.

What is Sculptra treatment?

Sculptra is a collagen-stimulating injectable made from Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable material that has been safely used in medicine for decades. Instead of giving instant volume like traditional fillers, Sculptra works gradually by encouraging your own collagen to regenerate, restoring lost facial structure and improving overall skin quality. This makes the results subtle, natural-looking and exceptionally long-lasting, with many patients enjoying benefits for two to five years, depending on their individual response and treatment plan.

How long does Sculptra last?

Results typically last between two and five years, although this varies based on factors such as age, skin quality, metabolism and the number of sessions completed. Most patients undergo a course of two to four treatments spaced three to four weeks apart, which allows collagen to build progressively. While the PLLA particles start to break down after around nine to twelve months, the newly formed collagen continues to support the skin for several years, giving Sculptra one of the longest longevity profiles among non-surgical facial aesthetic treatments.

How does Sculptra work?

Sculptra works by stimulating fibroblasts—the cells responsible for producing collagen—within the deep layers of the dermis. When injected in small, precise amounts, the PLLA particles trigger a controlled regenerative response, encouraging the body to rebuild its own internal support network. Over the following weeks and months, this new collagen improves skin firmness, softens facial folds, restores lost volume and enhances overall texture, creating results that appear gradually and blend naturally with your existing facial contours.

Is Sculptra a dermal filler?

No, Sculptra is not a traditional dermal filler. Fillers provide immediate volume by placing hyaluronic acid gel beneath the skin, whereas Sculptra acts as a bio-stimulator that encourages collagen production from within. As the PLLA particles begin to absorb, they are replaced by your own structural collagen, giving a more gradual and longer-lasting result. This makes Sculptra ideal for patients who want a subtle, progressive enhancement rather than the instant fullness associated with standard fillers.

Can Sculptra lift the face?

Sculptra can create a gentle lifting effect by replenishing deeper facial support where collagen, fat and soft tissue have been lost with age. By restoring this internal structure, the skin appears firmer, smoother and naturally lifted without surgery or downtime. Over time, many patients notice improved cheek definition, better jawline contouring and a fresher overall appearance, along with enhanced skin radiance due to the increased collagen production throughout the treated areas.

What are the possible side effects of Sculptra?

Side effects are uncommon when Sculptra is administered by a skilled and experienced clinician, but mild temporary swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising may occur. A rare delayed side effect is the development of small nodules beneath the skin; however, this risk is significantly reduced by injecting the product into the correct dermal plane and following the recommended post-treatment massage routine for five days. Proper technique and aftercare almost always prevent these issues, making the treatment very safe for suitable candidates.

Is Sculptra safe for organ-transplant patients?

Sculptra can be considered for immunosuppressed or organ-transplant patients, but treatment must be approached carefully and ideally discussed with the patient’s transplant specialist. Mr Ayham Al-Ayoubi has more than 20 years of experience using Sculptra and has successfully treated transplant patients without major complications, though their results typically do not last as long due to altered collagen metabolism. A personalised assessment is essential to ensure safety and realistic expectations.

Can I have Sculptra and IPL on the same day?

It is not recommended to have Sculptra and IPL treatment on the same day because Sculptra requires you to massage the treated areas twice daily for five days to ensure even distribution, while IPL can leave the skin sensitive and unsuitable for massage. To avoid irritation and ensure the best possible results from both treatments, it is advisable to leave at least one week between Sculptra and IPL or any other laser-based procedure.

Can I have RF microneedling after Sculptra?

RF microneedling can be safely performed a few weeks after Sculptra, as the two treatments target different layers of the skin. RF microneedling works on the superficial to mid-dermal layers, boosting skin texture and tightening, while Sculptra works deeper to stimulate structural collagen. When spaced appropriately, they can complement each other without interfering with results, offering a more advanced and comprehensive collagen-boosting outcome.

What is Sculptra buttock enhancement?

Sculptra buttock enhancement is a non-surgical procedure designed to add subtle volume, improve shape and enhance firmness in the buttocks without implants or downtime. The technique was refined and popularised by Dr Ayham Al-Ayoubi, who has performed hundreds of these treatments at the London Medical and Aesthetic Clinic. It is ideal for patients seeking a natural-looking enhancement, particularly those who prefer gradual improvements rather than the dramatic changes associated with surgical procedures, with results typically lasting two to three years.