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Sculptra or Filler

Sculptra or Filler – which is best?

If you’re looking for a way to restore lost volume and rejuvenate your skin, you’ve probably come across both Sculptra and dermal fillers. But what’s the difference, and which one is best for you?

At my Medispa near Wigan, we offer both treatments, and I know that choosing between them can be confusing. So let’s look at them both and break it down simply. Here I’ll guide you through the choice, Sculptra or Filler.

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is not a typical filler—it’s a collagen-stimulating treatment. Instead of just adding volume instantly like dermal fillers, Sculptra works gradually by encouraging your body to rebuild its own collagen.

The main ingredient in Sculptra is Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), a substance that kickstarts your skin’s natural collagen production. This makes it perfect for people who want a more natural, long-lasting result.

It’s particularly good for hollow cheeks, deep volume loss, and skin that’s lost its firmness due to ageing. Unlike fillers, which physically add volume, Sculptra improves skin quality over time, making it stronger and thicker.

What are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in your skin that attracts moisture. Unlike Sculptra, fillers provide instant results—adding volume, smoothing wrinkles, and enhancing features like lips and cheeks.

Different brands of filler (such as Juvederm or Teosyal) have different consistencies. Some are softer and more flexible (great for lips), while others are firmer (better for cheekbones or jawlines).

Fillers are very precise, so they’re ideal for shaping and defining areas like the lips, chin, or nose. They can also soften deeper wrinkles, like smile lines, instantly.

Sculptra vs Filler – What’s the Difference?

Feature Sculptra Dermal Fillers
Main Ingredient Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
How It Works Stimulates collagen production over time Instantly adds volume
Best For Full-face rejuvenation, volume loss Lips, cheeks, jawline, deep wrinkles
Results Seen Gradually over 3-6 months Immediately
Longevity 2-3 years 6-18 months

Which One is Best?

This depends on your goals!

  • For instant results – fillers are the way to go.
  • If you’re looking for a longer-lasting, natural boost – Sculptra is a better option.
  • Clients with deep volume loss or hollow areas – should choose Sculptra, as it builds collagen and restores structure.
  • If you just need a small enhancement (like lip volume or tear troughs) – filler is perfect.

In some cases, a combination of both works best! Many people start with filler for immediate improvement, then add Sculptra for long-term collagen support. While others will start with Sculptra for as much ‘natural’ improvement as possible before making final tweaks with filler.

It’s also important to consider downtime and aftercare. Fillers have minimal recovery, but Sculptra can cause slight swelling or bruising as collagen production kicks in. However, because Sculptra lasts much longer than filler, many people feel it’s worth the wait!

Final Thoughts

Lastly, both Sculptra and dermal fillers are excellent treatments, and choosing the right one depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re still unsure, a consultation is the best way to get personalised advice.

Want to find out more or book a consultation? Find out more about our Sculptra & Filler treatments in Wigan.