Biostimulatorsin Calgary

Collagen gives skin its structure and firmness, and we produce less of it as we age. This contributes to volume loss, laxity and wrinkles.

Biostimulators are injectable treatments that stimulate your skin to produce new collagen. This is different from a hyaluronic acid dermal filler, which adds volume directly with a gel. Because biostimulators work through your own collagen, the improvement develops gradually, and with Sculptra it can last longer than with most hyaluronic acid fillers.

Dr. Guo offers two biostimulators: Sculptra and HarmonyCa.

Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). It has no immediate filling effect; instead, it stimulates collagen over the months after treatment and is given as a series of sessions.

It is well suited to gradual, generalized volume loss in areas such as the cheeks, temples and lower face, and Dr. Guo also uses it for the neck and hands. Results build progressively and can last two years or more.

HarmonyCa is a hybrid injectable that combines hyaluronic acid with calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres. The hyaluronic acid gives an immediate lift, while the calcium hydroxyapatite supports collagen production over time.

Dr. Guo uses it mostly in the cheeks and to soften shadowing around the chin. HarmonyCa was authorized by Health Canada in 2026, and results can last up to 18 months.

Treatment starts with a consultation with Dr. Guo, who assesses your facial structure, skin quality and goals and recommends the biostimulator, or combination of treatments, that fits you best.

Injections are done in the office, and most people return to normal activities the same day. Swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising at the injection sites are common for a few days. You will receive aftercare instructions specific to your treatment, such as massaging the treated areas after Sculptra.

• Ingredients: Sculptra is poly-L-lactic acid. HarmonyCa combines hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite.
• Immediate effect: Sculptra has none beyond temporary swelling. HarmonyCa gives a lift right away from its hyaluronic acid.
• How results develop: Both stimulate collagen gradually over the following months. Sculptra is given as a series of sessions.
• How long results last: Sculptra can last two years or more. HarmonyCa can last up to 18 months.
• Typical use: Sculptra suits broader, generalized volume loss in the face, neck and hands. HarmonyCa is used mostly in the cheeks and for shadowing around the chin.

Neither replaces a hyaluronic acid filler for precise shaping, such as the lips. Dr. Guo may recommend one biostimulator, or a combination with fillers, depending on your facial structure and goals.

Biostimulators are often a good fit if you:

• Have gradual loss of facial volume or firmness
• Want natural-looking, progressive improvement rather than a sudden change
• Prefer longer-lasting results

They are not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area, or are allergic to any of the ingredients. Tell Dr. Guo about your medical history, including any autoimmune conditions, keloid scarring or previous filler treatments.

When will I see results?

Collagen takes time to form, so the main improvement appears over two to three months and continues to build. HarmonyCa also gives an immediate lift from its hyaluronic acid component.

Risks and side effects

Common side effects are swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising at the injection sites, which usually settle within days. Small lumps or nodules under the skin can occasionally occur. As with any injectable, serious complications such as infection or blockage of a blood vessel are rare but possible. Biostimulators cannot be fully dissolved the way hyaluronic acid fillers can, so careful planning and injection technique matter. Dr. Guo and his team will go through the risks with you before treatment.

Further reading: Biostimulators vs. skin boosters · How long does Sculptra last? · Sculptra vs. dermal fillers · HarmonyCa vs. Sculptra: Which Biostimulator Is Right for You? · How Many Vials of Sculptra Do I Need?

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