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Sculptra

in San Jose & Palo Alto, CA

What Is Sculptra Aesthetic?

For anyone looking for a subtle yet powerful approach to facial rejuvenation, Sculptra® Aesthetic offers a collagen-boosting solution that goes beyond traditional fillers. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which smooth lines by adding immediate volume, Sculptra® works gradually, encouraging your skin to rebuild its structure naturally from within. Over time, it stimulates collagen production, smoothing wrinkles and creases and restoring volume where it’s needed most. The result is a refreshed, youthful appearance that looks and feels completely authentic, with improvements that can last up to two years or more.

TREATMENT TIME

30-45 Minutes

PATIENT DOWNTIME

0-1 Week

TREATMENT SERIES

2-3

PROCEDURE TYPE

Office

How Does Sculptra Work?

Sculptra® is made with a biodegradable synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid which is gradually absorbed by the body. During this process, the body creates more collagen, leading to a natural increase in volume over 4-6 weeks.* Palo Alto / San Jose Sculptra® is injected using a blunt-tipped needle in various regions of the face, namely below the cheekbones and in the temples.

Palo Alto & San Jose sculptra model with blonde hair

How Many Sculptra Treatments Are Needed?

Patients typically require two to three treatments in order to achieve lasting, natural-looking results that continue to develop over the course of three to four months.

Why Do We Use Sculptra Aesthetic for Anti-aging?

Aging is a unique journey for everyone, but it follows a predictable pattern beneath the surface. As the years pass, our skin loses vital elements like collagen, elastin, and facial fat. Gradually, features such as plump cheeks and rounded temples start to soften and hollow, leaving us with a thinner, less vibrant look. Sculptra® Aesthetic is designed to restore lost volume subtly and naturally. It works within the skin to stimulate collagen production, gradually rebuilding structure and fullness over time.

Aftercare: What Do I Do After My Sculptra® Aesthetic Treatment?

Following Sculptra treatment, our medical staff recommends patients adhere to a 5-5-5 post-treatment regimen. This means massaging the treated area for five minutes five times a day for five days. This helps evenly distribute the product and stimulates collagen production. Avoid excessive sun or heat exposure for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling or redness. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy skincare routine will support radiant skin for years to come.

What Are the Associated Risks?

Patients should anticipate the potential for bruising from treatment. While receiving Sculptra Palo Alto & San Jose medical staff at Illuminate ask patients to refrain from the use of blood-thinning medications or supplements if possible during the week prior to treatment. This includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, platelet inhibitors, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic, etc. Swelling, pain or tenderness in the treated area is also common after treatment.  This usually subsides within a few hours to days.  Some patients may experience post-injection lumps. Our experienced injectors use the most current techniques of diluting the product properly to greatly minimize the risk. We also recommend that patients adhere to a strict post-treatment care regimen which we call the 5-5-5 rule. There’s more information on this below. 

How Long Will My Results Last?

Sculptra® in San Jose / Palo Alto will last for two years in most patients.*  

How Much Does Sculptra Cost?

While a typical San Jose or Palo Alto Sculptra treatment costs around $1350, your individual cost may vary depending upon the number of treatments needed to achieve full correction. Our patients have been very happy using services like CareCredit for financing. Many patients have also applied for credit cards with longer terms at 0% interest.

San Jose & Palo Alto sculptra model with black hair

Why choose Illuminate?

Choosing Illuminate Plastic Surgery means prioritizing yourself with the best in personalized aesthetic care. Located in the heart of Palo Alto, we offer a blend of artistry and science that sets a new standard for beauty and wellness. Led by the distinguished Dr. David Boudreault and Dr. Brittany Leader, our team is renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and dedication to natural-looking results. At Illuminate, our approach is holistic. We recognize that true radiance comes from addressing everything a person needs. Our all-in-one facility offers seamless, cohesive care—whether it’s a rejuvenating Sculptra treatment or any of our wellness services—supported by a team that’s continuously learning and evolving. Illuminate is more than a clinic—it’s where innovation meets genuine care, and your aesthetic goals find their fullest expression. 

SculptraFrequently Asked Questions

Yes, Sculptra is FDA-approved and considered safe when administered by experienced, qualified practitioners. It has a long-standing safety profile.

Initial improvements may appear within a few weeks, but full results typically develop gradually over several months as collagen builds.

The effects of Sculptra can last up to two years or more, with results that maintain a natural appearance over time.

Common side effects include mild swelling or redness, which usually resolve within a few days. Rarely, small nodules can form, which is why following aftercare guidance is important.

Sculptra is ideal for adults in their 30s and beyond looking to restore volume and stimulate collagen for smoother, younger-looking skin.

Trust is our Best Feature

Illuminate Plastic Surgery Testimonials

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“Dr. Boudreault is an exceptional physician. He is thorough, has extremely high integrity and always goes the extra mile to make every interaction with his patients the very best. Highly recommended.”

“Dr. Boudreault, and his staff were amazing. The consultation put me at ease right away. I love the outcome of my procedure. I got exactly the look I was going for, and receive compliments all the time. I would not hesitate to use Illuminate Plastic Surgery again!”

“Breast implants have always been something I have contemplated with. Dr. Boudreault was the very first consultant I had and I knew immediately Illuminate would be my pick. Now a year later, I am beyond pleased with my results and am so happy I finally made the decision to go through with the surgery. There is no other plastic surgeon I would go to in the Bay Area.”

“Dr. Leader is amazing. She's honest, transparent, and caring. I had a procedure done by her and I am very happy with the entire process and the results.”

“I highly recommend Dr. Leader. My results are amazing. She answered all my questions and her bedside manner was gentle and caring.”

“I had an amazing JOINT case where Dr Leader worked on my eyes and Dr B on my body. Excellent results on both ends and saved down time”

“I have gone to see Dr. Berkowitz and different members of his team for minor procedures several times now - they're all great, honest, and careful! Highly recommended!!”

“Had a triple deviated nose. Excellent results, Easy Recovery. Great staff. Was nervous about the procedure however dr Berkowitz and staff could not have been more accommodating. Would highly recommend !!”

“Dr. Berkowitz is a talented plastic surgeon and a gentleman. His care is exceptional, his office staff is very accommodating and caring. I would recommend Dr. Berkowitz to anyone in need of plastic surgery or cosmetic procedure.”

“"Dr. Kumar did an amazing job with my mommy makeover! From the very first consultation, he took the time to explain everything and made sure I felt confident every step of the way. He stayed in touch throughout my recovery and always made me feel cared for and supported. His work is truly incredible—I never imagined I could look and feel this good again! Choosing Dr. Kumar was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I would trust him over and over again!"”

“He is an amazing doctor and can not say enough good things about him. It is very apparent that he cares for his patients. He takes his time answering all questions and concerns and his follow up care is beyond 5 stars!!! Highly recommend!”

“I am incredibly happy with the results of my mommy make over. Dr. Kumar made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. I was particularly impressed with how he listened to my concerns and explained everything clearly. Dr.Kumar was confident about what he could do, and he delivered. He is a talented and skilled surgeon. I highly recommend Dr.Kumar if you are looking for a tummy tuck, breast augmentation or lipo 360.”

At Illuminate we’re with you during every step of your journey toward greater self-confidence. Schedule a consultation with us today and let Illuminate’s expert team listen to your concerns and guide you through treatments and procedures to help you reach your individual goals. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating your renewed appearance and realized potential.

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