Center for Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa Patient
Q. Is there an effective way to tell if Sculptra/Radiesse is still stimulating collagen? Would any ultrasound/MRI/ be able to tell this? Or any device that can measure skin thickness?
A. Good question to consider!
Without a baseline study of some kind to compare tissue thickening, the measurements taken by ultrasound, CT scan, MRI and even PET scan may not offer any indication of continued collagen build up.
I anticipate the only way to measure collagen formation activity is with a biopsy of the tissue to evaluate the progress or senescence of the inflammatory response in making scar / collagen and even with this, a baseline would be helpful.
I use Radiesse as a inert filler and scaffolding for bone foundation along the orbital margin, zygoma and jawline. XRays may visualize a difference but do not anticipate continuous thickening and repair more than 3-6 months.
Studies indicate that Sculptra provides 24 months of continuous collagen formation. While I love the effects of Sculptra, I find that continued dermal stimulation wanes after 1 year and recommend yearly boosters.
I hope this helps. Interesting question. Good luck!
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