Sculptra® (poly-L-lactic acid) has become one of the most trusted biostimulatory injectables for restoring volume, lifting hollow areas, and rebuilding lost collagen. Unlike traditional fillers that add instant plumpness, Sculptra works gradually—stimulating your body’s own collagen over time for natural, long-lasting results.
With its growing popularity, so has the conversation around Sculptra nodules. While uncommon, nodules can occur—and understanding what they are, why they happen, and how they’re managed can help patients feel confident and informed before treatment.

What Are Sculptra Nodules?
 

Sculptra nodules are small, firm bumps that can develop under the skin after treatment. They fall into two main categories:

1. Non-visible (Palpable) Nodules

• Can be felt when pressing the skin
• Not visible to others
• Usually appear weeks to months after treatment
• Typically harmless and often resolve without intervention

2. Visible Nodules

• Can be both felt and seen on the skin’s surface
• Less common than palpable nodules
• May require targeted treatment by a dermatologist
  Visible nodules are the type patients are usually concerned about—though they remain rare when Sculptra is injected using proper technique.

Key Points

• Modern injection and dilution techniques reduce Sculptra nodule risk to under 1%, comparable to hyaluronic acid fillers.
• Correct injection depth matters—Sculptra must be placed in the subcutaneous layer to avoid superficial or deep nodules.
• Patient adherence to the 5-5-5 massage rule is essential for proper product distribution and optimal results.

When performed thoughtfully and carefully, Sculptra is a safe and effective treatment that delivers gradual, natural-looking rejuvenation. With expert injectors and proper aftercare, the risk of nodules remains minimal, allowing patients to enjoy smooth, lifted, collagen-rich results.