Pre & Post Care for Sculptra® in Dallas, TX

At Saltbox Aesthetics + Apothecary in Dallas, TX, we provide Sculptra® treatments to stimulate natural collagen production and improve skin quality over time. Proper preparation and aftercare help support your results and recovery.

Following these instructions helps minimize bruising and swelling and supports a smooth recovery. Follow any additional guidance provided by your injector based on your treatment area and individual needs.

If you have questions, call or text 972-677-9888.

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Pre-Treatment Instructions

Hydration & Nutrition: Arrive well-fed and well-hydrated for your appointment.

Vitamins: Maintain a balanced diet with adequate vitamins, including vitamin C. Increase supplements only if recommended by your provider.

Bruising Prevention: If recommended by your provider, begin taking Arnica 5 days before treatment.

Medications & Supplements: Your provider may recommend avoiding nonessential medications and supplements that can increase bruising for 7 days prior, including omega-3s, turmeric, ibuprofen, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, garlic supplements, and aspirin. Do not stop prescribed blood thinners or other medications without approval from your prescribing clinician.

Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 4 days before treatment.

Skincare: Avoid skin-sensitizing topical products for several days before your appointment, as directed by your provider.

Immediately After Treatment

The 5-5-5 Massage Rule

Massage the treated areas using the technique demonstrated by your injector:

  • 5 times per day
  • 5 minutes each time
  • For 5 days after treatment

Use upward strokes if instructed by your injector. Follow any personalized directions for your treatment area.

Positioning: Keep your head elevated above your heart for at least 6 hours after treatment, as directed.

Swelling Care: Apply a cool compress as needed during the first 48 hours. Use a clean cloth as a barrier and avoid applying ice directly to the skin.

Activity: Avoid exercise for 24 hours after treatment.

Heat: Avoid excessive sun exposure or heat for 24 hours and saunas for 48 hours.

Recovery & Ongoing Aftercare

What to Expect

  • Temporary swelling is expected after treatment.
  • Mild asymmetry may occur for up to 14 days as swelling settles.
  • Treated areas may feel firm to the touch.
  • Bruising and swelling may last up to 14 days, although recovery varies.
  • Results develop gradually and may become noticeable over approximately 3 months.

The fullness seen immediately after treatment includes temporary swelling and is not your final result.

Healing Support

Arnica, bromelain, or antihistamines may be considered only if recommended by your provider. Follow their instructions and check before starting new medications or supplements.

Continue the 5-5-5 massage routine unless your injector directs otherwise. Contact us if you notice persistent or new lumps, worsening tenderness, or symptoms that concern you.

Important Reminders & Appointment Information

When to Contact Our Team

Contact your injector immediately if you experience:

  • Intense, unusual, or worsening pain
  • Increasing or excessive swelling
  • Unusual skin color or temperature changes, including white, dusky, blotchy, unusually hot, or cold skin
  • Spreading redness, drainage, fever, or other signs of infection

Unusual pain or skin discoloration requires prompt medical assessment. If you cannot reach your injector promptly, seek urgent medical care.

Seek emergency medical care immediately or call 911 for difficulty breathing or swallowing, vision changes, stroke symptoms, or signs of a severe allergic reaction. Do not wait for a response from our office.

Illness & Rescheduling

If you are ill on the day of your appointment, please reschedule.

For cancellations, Saltbox requires 24 hours’ notice to avoid forfeiting deposits or incurring a cancellation fee.

Reschedule through your patient portal.

Medical Charting & Treatment Tracking

We will take photos using our HIPAA-compliant software to document your treatment area and evaluate results and progress for each treatment. This process is also required by our medical supervisor when charting on patients.

Individualized Care

The pre- and post-care instructions listed here cover the most common and important guidelines for your upcoming treatment. They may not include all recommendations specific to your individual care.

Please follow any additional instructions provided by your injector.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I massage after Sculptra®?

Follow the 5-5-5 rule: massage the treated areas for five minutes, five times daily, for five days. Use the technique demonstrated by your injector and follow any personalized instructions.

How long can bruising and swelling last?

Bruising and swelling may last up to 14 days, though recovery varies. Mild unevenness may occur while swelling settles. Contact us promptly if symptoms worsen or you experience unusual pain or skin color changes.

When will I see my Sculptra® results?

Results develop gradually as collagen production increases. Improvement may become noticeable over approximately three months, depending on your treatment plan and individual response. Initial swelling is not your final result.

Questions About Your Treatment?

We’re here to help you feel prepared for your appointment and supported during recovery. Contact our team with any questions about your treatment or care instructions.

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Whether you know your next treatment or would like guidance, our team is here to help you find the right place to begin.

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