03/06/2026
⚠️ THE BIOSTIMULATOR CONVERSATION NOBODY IS HAVING ⚠️
Biostimulators are often promoted as treatments that "stimulate your own collagen" rather than simply adding volume. While this is true, it's important to understand what may remain beneath the skin long after treatment.
🔹 Sculptra® (Poly-L-Lactic Acid – PLLA)
Sculptra contains microscopic PLLA particles that trigger a foreign-body response, stimulating collagen production over time. While the newly formed collagen naturally ages and breaks down, evidence suggests that PLLA particles and associated tissue changes may persist for many years after treatment.
🔹 Radiesse® (Calcium Hydroxylapatite – CaHA)
Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended within a gel carrier. Calcium hydroxylapatite is the same mineral naturally found in bone and teeth. It provides immediate volume while also stimulating collagen production. Although the carrier gel disappears, residual particles and tissue reactions may remain longer than many patients realise.
⚠️ Why does this matter?
Even after the desired collagen-stimulating effect has diminished, the material itself may still be present within the tissues. This can occasionally lead to delayed complications, including:
▪️ Nodules
▪️ Lumps and irregularities
▪️ Chronic inflammation
▪️ Foreign-body granulomas
▪️ Delayed reactions months or even years later
This is not intended to cause fear. Many patients achieve excellent results and never experience complications. However, informed consent means understanding both the benefits and the long-term presence of these materials within the face.
💭 Before choosing any injectable treatment, ask:
"How long might the product itself remain in my tissues?"
Patients deserve answers to both questions.
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