Sculptra & other PLLAs
Restore youthful volume and stimulate natural collagen production for long-lasting facial rejuvenation
What Are PLLA Treatments?
PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) treatments are advanced injectable bio-stimulators that work differently from traditional dermal fillers. Rather than simply adding volume, PLLA stimulates your body's own collagen production, gradually restoring facial volume and improving skin quality from within.
As a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic substance, PLLA has been used safely in medical applications for decades. When injected into the skin, it triggers a natural healing response that encourages your body to produce new collagen, resulting in progressive, natural-looking rejuvenation that can last up to two years or more.
PLLA brands We Offer
Sculptra
The original and most established PLLA product, Sculptra has been used worldwide for over 20 years. It's particularly effective for treating facial volume loss and improving skin quality.
Best for:
Deep facial volume restoration
Cheek augmentation
Temple hollowing
Nasolabial folds
Marionette lines
Jawline contouring
Aesplla
A premium PLLA formulation offering smooth, even collagen stimulation with refined particle technology for natural-looking results.
Best for:
Full-face rejuvenation
Skin tightening and firmness
Improving skin texture
Volumisation
Body applications (buttocks, hands)
Ellansé (Ecolla)
A unique PCL (Polycaprolactone) based bio-stimulator offering immediate volumising effect alongside long-term collagen stimulation. Available in different formulations for varying durations.
Best for:
Immediate volume with progressive improvement
Hand rejuvenation
Facial contouring and lifting
Deep wrinkles and folds
Those wanting faster visible results
Lanluma (Illuma)
Advanced PLLA formulation designed for both facial rejuvenation and body contouring with excellent skin tightening properties.
Best for:
Facial volume restoration
Body contouring (buttocks, knees, arms)
Cellulite improvement
Skin laxity and tightening
Comprehensive rejuvenation
How PLLA Treatments Work
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that provide immediate volume, PLLA products work as bio-stimulators:
Injection: PLLA microparticles are injected into the deep dermis or subcutaneous layer
Stimulation: Your body recognises the particles and triggers a natural healing response
Collagen Production: Fibroblast cells begin producing new collagen around the particles
Gradual Improvement: Over weeks and months, new collagen builds, restoring volume and improving skin quality
Natural Breakdown: PLLA gradually breaks down into water and carbon dioxide, safely absorbed by the body
Lasting Results: The new collagen remains, providing results that can last 2+ years
Benefits of PLLA Bio-Stimulator Treatments
Natural, Progressive Results Improvements develop gradually over several months, creating a naturally youthful appearance without the "overdone" look.
Long-Lasting Effects Results typically last 2+ years, significantly longer than traditional hyaluronic acid fillers, making it highly cost-effective.
Stimulates Your Own Collagen Works with your body's natural processes to restore volume and improve skin quality from within.
Improves Skin Quality Not just about volume - PLLA improves skin texture, firmness, and overall quality for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Versatile Treatment Can be used across the face and body to address multiple concerns in one treatment approach.
Subtle, Natural Enhancement Gradual improvements mean changes appear natural, with friends noticing you look refreshed rather than "done."
Biocompatible and Safe PLLA has decades of safe use in medical applications and is fully biodegradable with minimal risk of allergic reaction.
Treatment Areas
Temples (volume restoration)
Cheeks (lift and volumisation)
Jawline (definition and contouring)
Chin (projection and shape)
Pre-jowl area
What to Expect
1. Consultation We'll assess your concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine which PLLA product is best suited to achieve your desired results. We'll create a customised treatment plan, typically involving 2-4 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
2. Preparation The treatment area will be cleansed and marked. Local anaesthetic or numbing cream may be applied for your comfort. The PLLA product is carefully prepared and reconstituted according to specific protocols.
3. Treatment Using fine needles or cannulas, the PLLA solution is injected into predetermined areas using specific techniques. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on treatment areas. You may feel mild discomfort, pressure, or a stinging sensation.
4. Massage Protocol Immediately after treatment and for several days following, you'll need to massage the treated areas according to the "5-5-5 rule" (5 times a day, for 5 minutes, for 5 days) to ensure even distribution and optimal results.
5. Treatment Course Most clients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results, depending on the degree of volume loss and desired outcome.
Aftercare & Healing
Immediately After Treatment
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling (10-15 minutes at a time)
Begin massage protocol immediately - this is crucial for PLLA treatments
Avoid makeup for at least 12-24 hours
Keep treatment areas clean
Avoid touching or rubbing excessively (except during massage)
Stay well-hydrated
First 24-48 Hours
Continue regular massage protocol (5 times daily, 5 minutes each time, for 5 days minimum)
Sleep with head elevated to minimise swelling
Avoid strenuous exercise and activities that increase blood flow
No alcohol consumption
Avoid extreme heat (saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, sunbeds)
Do not apply excessive pressure to treated areas outside of massage
First Week
Continue massage protocol for full 5 days minimum (some practitioners recommend longer)
Avoid facial treatments, peels, laser treatments, or other cosmetic procedures
Avoid dental work if possible
Protect skin with SPF 30+ daily
Continue avoiding extreme heat and vigorous exercise for 48-72 hours
Gentle skincare routine only
First Month
Avoid other injectable treatments in the same areas
Continue protecting skin from sun exposure
Maintain good hydration
Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled
Additional treatment sessions may be scheduled 4-6 weeks apart
Massage Technique
Use fingertips with moderate pressure
Perform circular motions over treated areas
Cover all injection sites
5 minutes per area, 5 times per day, for at least 5 days
Some practitioners recommend extending massage for 2-4 weeks
Proper massage prevents nodule formation and ensures even distribution
What's Normal During Healing
Moderate swelling (can be significant in first 24-48 hours)
Bruising at injection sites
Redness and tenderness
Small bumps or lumps (should resolve with proper massage)
Feeling product under the skin initially
Gradual changes over weeks/months rather than immediate results
Slight asymmetry during settling period
When to Contact Us
Contact us immediately if you experience:
Persistent nodules or lumps that don't improve with massage
Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, fever, pus)
Severe pain not controlled by over-the-counter pain relief
Skin discolouration, blanching, or necrosis
Vision changes or severe headache
Significant asymmetry that worsens
Any unusual symptoms or concerns
Timeline for Results
Immediately post-treatment: Some volume visible but mostly product and swelling
Week 1: Swelling subsides, initial volume may "disappear" - this is normal
Weeks 2-4: Minimal visible change - collagen production beginning
Months 2-3: Gradual improvements become noticeable
Months 3-6: Progressive enhancement continues
Months 6-12: Optimal results achieved
2+ years: Duration of results with proper treatment course
Important Notes:
PLLA is NOT an immediate filler - patience is required as results develop gradually
Multiple treatment sessions are typically needed for best results
Initial volume is due to water in the product and will dissipate - don't panic!
The real results come from collagen production over months
Proper massage is essential to prevent nodule formation
Results are progressive and cumulative with each treatment session
Frequently Asked Questions
How is PLLA different from dermal fillers? Traditional hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate volume that lasts 6-18 months. PLLA bio-stimulators work gradually by stimulating your own collagen production, with results developing over months but lasting 2+ years. PLLA improves both volume and skin quality.
Which PLLA product is best for me? The choice depends on your specific concerns, treatment areas, and goals. Sculptra is the most established with extensive research. Ellansé (Ecolla) offers immediate volume alongside bio-stimulation. Aesthefill and Lanluma provide excellent results for both face and body. We'll recommend the best option during consultation.
Does the treatment hurt? Discomfort is usually mild to moderate. You may feel stinging or pressure during injection, but most clients tolerate the procedure well.
How many treatments will I need? Most clients require 2-4 treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. The exact number depends on your degree of volume loss, treatment areas, and aesthetic goals.
Why do I need to massage the area? Massage is crucial for PLLA treatments. It ensures even distribution of the product, prevents nodule or lump formation, and promotes optimal collagen stimulation. The "5-5-5 rule" (5 times daily, 5 minutes each, for 5 days minimum) must be followed diligently.
What if I see lumps or bumps? Small bumps immediately after treatment are normal and usually resolve with proper massage. Persistent nodules can occur if massage protocol isn't followed correctly. Contact us if lumps don't improve with continued massage.
When will I see results? Unlike traditional fillers, PLLA results develop gradually. You may see minimal change in the first 4-6 weeks. Improvements become noticeable around 2-3 months and continue developing for 6-12 months as collagen production progresses.
How long do results last? Results typically last 2+ years, significantly longer than hyaluronic acid fillers. Some clients enjoy results for 3-4 years. Maintenance treatments can extend longevity further.
Can PLLA be dissolved if I don't like it? No, unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, PLLA cannot be dissolved. It breaks down naturally over time. This is why choosing an experienced practitioner is crucial, and why results develop gradually, allowing adjustments during your treatment course.
Am I a good candidate? Ideal candidates are adults with facial volume loss, skin laxity, or those seeking comprehensive rejuvenation. You should be in good health and have realistic expectations about gradual results. Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with active infections or certain autoimmune conditions.
Can I combine PLLA with other treatments? Yes, PLLA works excellently alongside other treatments. It can be combined with hyaluronic acid fillers for immediate volume, anti-wrinkle injections for dynamic lines, and skin treatments. Timing between treatments is important - we'll create a comprehensive plan during consultation.
Is PLLA safe for body treatments? Yes, certain PLLA products (particularly Lanluma and Aesthefill) are specifically designed for body applications including buttock augmentation, hand rejuvenation, and skin tightening on arms, knees, and abdomen.
What's the difference between Sculptra and Ellansé? Sculptra is pure PLLA and works entirely through collagen stimulation with gradual results. Ellansé uses PCL (polycaprolactone) and provides immediate volumising effect from the CMC carrier gel plus progressive collagen stimulation, offering faster visible improvements.
Ready to Restore Your Youthful Volume Naturally?
Schedule your personalised consultation today to discover how PLLA bio-stimulator treatments can help you achieve long-lasting, natural rejuvenation.
