Sculptra / Radiesse

Biostimulator Aftercare Instructions

Biostimulators are injectable treatments designed to stimulate your body’s own collagen production, improving skin firmness, texture, and volume over time. While the results are gradual and long-lasting, proper aftercare is essential to ensure optimal outcomes and minimize complications.


🔄 What to Expect Post-Treatment:

  • Mild redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
  • Small lumps or bumps under the skin are common temporarily and typically resolve as the product integrates.
  • Full results develop gradually over 4–12 weeks, with best outcomes seen after completing the recommended series of treatments.

✅ What You SHOULD Do:

🧴 Massage: 5-5-5 Rule (Sculptra Only)

  • Massage the treated area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days.
  • This helps distribute the product evenly and prevents the formation of nodules.
  • Use a gentle moisturizer or facial oil while massaging to reduce friction.

💆‍♀️ Radiesse Patients:

  • No massage is required unless advised by your provider.
  • If Radiesse was diluted for skin rejuvenation (a.k.a. "Radiesse wash"), light massage may be recommended — follow your provider’s guidance.

☀️ Additional Care:

  • Apply cold compresses (not ice) for 10–15 minutes at a time for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and bruising.
  • Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping for the first night.
  • Stay well-hydrated to support collagen synthesis.
  • Use gentle skincare products for the first 48 hours.
  • Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, especially if treated areas are exposed to the sun.

❌ What You SHOULD NOT Do:

  • Avoid vigorous exercise, heat, or sweating (saunas, hot yoga, steam rooms) for 24–48 hours after treatment.
  • Do not touch, press, or massage the treated area (except Sculptra massage as instructed).
  • Avoid alcohol, blood-thinning medications, and supplements (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin, fish oil) for 24 hours to minimize bruising.
  • Do not undergo facials, laser treatments, or skin tightening procedures in the treated area for at least 1–2 weeks, unless cleared by your provider.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 1 week after treatment.

📅 Follow-Up & Results:

  • Sculptra®: Results build gradually and typically require 2–3 treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
  • Radiesse®: Provides immediate volume with ongoing collagen stimulation; maintenance is usually recommended every 12–18 months.

📞 Contact Us Immediately If You Experience:

  • Signs of infection: redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or pain worsening over time
  • Hard nodules that persist beyond a few weeks
  • Skin blanching (pale or white areas), severe pain, or discoloration
  • Any unusual or concerning reaction