Collagen plays the biggest role in maintaining skin elasticity, but as aging progresses, collagen decreases and skin elasticity diminishes.

Skin that has lost its elasticity develops wrinkles, begins to sag, and loses volume, causing the cheek area to hollow out. Facial volume is an essential element of a youthful appearance, so when cheek hollowing occurs due to loss of skin elasticity, one tends to look older than their actual age.

Recently, as the number of healthy older adults has increased, more people are choosing medical methods to look younger. Demand has grown not only for wrinkle improvement but also for facial volume restoration.

<img src="https://cdn.medical-tribune.co.kr/news/photo/202212/111288_42066_5854.jpg" alt="" style="max-width:100%">

According to Dr. Ryu Hyo-seop, director of Well Dermatology Clinic (Apgujeong main branch) [**photo**], methods such as Sculptra are primarily used to restore volume to hollowed areas of the face.

Dr. Ryu states, "It is a method of injecting a solution made by mixing powdered PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) with saline, which restores skin elasticity and replenishes volume."

He further adds that it does not block blood vessels and therefore does not damage tissue, while inducing an effect in which naturally generated collagen gradually fills in.

As effective as it is, there are precautions to be aware of. Dr. Ryu identifies the use of authentic products in the correct dosage as a key condition for achieving safe results with Sculptra.

He states, "This is the most fundamental rule for preventing side effects caused by bacterial contamination or deterioration," and adds, "Since the effect varies depending on the diluent and dilution ratio, it is also necessary to confirm whether the procedure is performed using a full, intact vial rather than measuring by CC units."

The next consideration is whether 3D analysis is used. Dr. Ryu notes, "Analysis of each individual's skin condition and degree of aging is required more than with any other procedure," and adds, "It is important to confirm whether diagnosis is made using 3D imaging analysis equipment capable of scientifically predicting and precisely analyzing the patient's condition."

"<p><a href="http://www.medical-tribune.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=111288" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View original article →</a></p>"