Treatment Overview
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), often known by its brand name Sculptra, is an advanced bio-stimulatory injectable used in Korea for collagen regeneration, facial volume restoration, and long-term anti-aging. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that add immediate volume, PLLA works gradually by stimulating the skin’s fibroblasts to produce new collagen. This leads to progressive volumizing, wrinkle reduction, and firmer skin that looks natural and youthful.
Korean dermatologists and plastic surgeons frequently use PLLA for full-face rejuvenation, temple hollowing, nasolabial folds, jawline support, and skin texture improvement. It is often combined with HA fillers, Botox, threads, PRP, or exosomes for comprehensive anti-aging results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Collagen Stimulation: Restores natural elasticity and density.
- Long-Lasting Volume: Gradual improvement for hollow cheeks, temples, and under-eyes.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Smooths nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and deep creases.
- Skin Tightening: Supports sagging areas with natural firmness.
- Facial Contouring: Enhances jawline and midface harmony.
- Scar Improvement: Refines acne scars and skin irregularities.
- Durable Effect: Results last up to 2 years with maintenance.
Ideal Candidates
PLLA injections in Korea are recommended for:
- Adults in their 30s–60s with age-related volume loss.
- Patients with hollow cheeks, temples, or under-eye depressions.
- Individuals with deep wrinkles or skin laxity.
- Men and women seeking natural, gradual results instead of instant fillers.
- Patients combining PLLA with threads, Botox, or HA fillers for full rejuvenation.
- Those wanting long-term collagen regeneration.
Possible Risks & Complications
PLLA is safe when performed by skilled doctors in Korea, but mild side effects may include:
- Redness & Swelling: Common, resolves within days.
- Bruising or Tenderness: Temporary at injection sites.
- Small Nodules: Rare, preventable with correct dilution and massage.
- Asymmetry: Corrected with follow-up touch-ups.
- Rare Risks: Infection or granulomas (extremely rare with proper protocols).
Surgical Techniques Used
Although non-surgical, PLLA treatment in Korea is performed with surgical-level precision protocols:
- Deep Dermal/Subdermal Injection: Ensures natural collagen stimulation.
- Dilution Protocols: PLLA particles suspended in sterile water for even distribution.
- Layered Injection Mapping: Customized placement for temples, cheeks, jawline, or folds.
- Cannula Technique: Minimizes bruising and improves safety.
- Massage Technique: Patients instructed to massage area post-treatment to ensure even collagen formation.
- Combination Therapy: Often paired with HA fillers for immediate results while PLLA develops.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately After: Mild redness or swelling.
- 1–3 Days: Tenderness or bruising may appear.
- 1–2 Weeks: Early volume effect visible from water retention (temporary).
- 2–3 Months: Collagen regeneration begins, creating natural lift and fullness.
Aftercare Tips:
- Massage treated area 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days (“5-5-5 rule”).
- Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and sauna for 1–2 days.
- Apply SPF daily to protect regenerating collagen.
- Stay hydrated to support healing.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Subtle plumping effect (temporary from hydration).
- Short-Term (2–3 Months): Visible collagen stimulation; wrinkles soften.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Fuller, firmer skin; improved contours.
- Long-Term: Results last 18–24 months; maintenance recommended every 1–2 years.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Facial Mapping – Doctor evaluates volume loss, wrinkles, and contour needs.
- Preparation – PLLA powder diluted with sterile water; numbing cream applied.
- Injection Session – PLLA injected deeply using fine needle or cannula.
- Post-Care – Cooling packs applied; massage instructions provided.
- Follow-Up – Multiple sessions (2–3) scheduled over several months for best results.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean doctors are experts in natural collagen-stimulating injectables.
- Advanced protocols minimize side effects (nodules, unevenness).
- Integration with HA fillers, Botox, threads, and regenerative boosters for synergy.
- Affordable compared to Western clinics with world-class standards.
- Seoul is known as the hub of regenerative anti-aging therapies.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing depends on vial count, treatment area, and package sessions:
- Single PLLA Vial (per session): USD 700 – 1,200
- Temples or Cheeks (1–2 vials): USD 1,200 – 2,000
- Full Face Rejuvenation (3–4 vials, multiple sessions): USD 2,500 – 4,500
- Collagen Stimulator Package (PLLA + HA Fillers + Botox): USD 3,500 – 6,000
- Luxury Anti-Aging Program (PLLA + Threads + Exosomes/PRP): USD 5,000 – 8,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 100
- Comfort care (numbing, soothing masks): USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (exosomes, PRP, boosters, lasers): USD 200 – 800
💡 Many patients call PLLA the “collagen fertilizer”—a treatment that gradually restores youthful firmness and structure for up to two years.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Leaders in PLLA + HA hybrid anti-aging programs.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in Sculptra full-face rejuvenation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Known for scar repair and collagen protocols with PLLA.
- ID Dermatology (Seoul): Experts in PLLA + PDO threads for contouring.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Luxury PLLA programs with regenerative boosters.
