If you’re noticing volume loss or tiredness in your face, you may be considering dermal fillers or collagen stimulators such as Sculptra. Both restore structure and youthfulness, but they work in very different ways.
At Alcove Aesthetics by Dr Goziem, a doctor-led aesthetic clinic in Central London, patients from Mayfair, Westminster and Knightsbridge come for personalised advice and treatments that enhance natural beauty, not alter it. This guide explains how Sculptra and dermal fillers differ, and how to decide which one suits your goals best.
Understanding Volume Loss
As we age, collagen, elastin and fat gradually diminish. The result is less support in key areas such as the cheeks, temples, and jawline. This can create:
- Flattened or hollow cheeks
- Fine lines and deeper folds
- A tired or drawn facial appearance
Restoring volume restores light and contour to the face, helping you look rested and refreshed.
What Is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a collagen-stimulating injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Rather than filling space immediately, it encourages your body to rebuild its own collagen over time.
When injected into the deep dermis, Sculptra:
- Stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen
- Improves elasticity and skin firmness
- Gradually restores lost facial structure
- Enhances definition and lift naturally
Results develop slowly over 3 to 6 months and can last up to 2 years.
“Sculptra is ideal for patients who want to look fresher over time, not instantly different. It rebuilds what age has softened.”
— Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, BDS, MSc (Aesthetic Medicine)
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers, typically made of hyaluronic acid, restore volume instantly by physically filling depleted areas. They are soft gels that integrate with your tissue to provide lift and contour.
At Alcove Aesthetics, Dr Goziem uses premium, CE-marked fillers for safety and precision. These fillers are ideal for:
- Enhancing lips, cheeks, jawline or chin
- Reducing deep folds such as nasolabial lines
- Balancing asymmetry or refining contour
- Creating subtle, natural volume instantly
Results appear immediately and typically last 9 to 12 months.
Sculptra vs Fillers: A Direct Comparison
| Feature | Sculptra | Dermal Fillers |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Poly-L-lactic acid (collagen stimulator) | Hyaluronic acid (HA gel) |
| How It Works | Stimulates your body to produce new collagen | Adds volume instantly to fill lines or hollows |
| Onset of Results | Gradual (3 to 6 months) | Immediate |
| Longevity | Up to 24 months | 9 to 12 months |
| Ideal For | Overall facial rejuvenation and lift | Targeted contouring and volume restoration |
| Texture | Integrates deeply, feels natural | Softer, gel-like texture |
| Maintenance | Fewer touch-ups, longer-lasting | Occasional top-ups for shape maintenance |
Which Is Better for You?
The right choice depends on your facial anatomy, goals and how quickly you want to see results.
Choose Sculptra if you want:
- Long-term collagen stimulation
- Gradual, natural results
- Global facial rejuvenation rather than isolated volume
Choose Dermal Fillers if you want:
- Immediate contour or lift
- Quick enhancement for lips, cheeks or jawline
- Shorter-term refresh with the option to adjust easily
Many patients at Alcove Aesthetics choose to combine both approaches — using Sculptra for foundational collagen support and dermal fillers for fine-tuning facial balance.
Why Choose a Doctor-Led Clinic
At Alcove Aesthetics, Pall Mall, every injectable treatment is performed personally by Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, a medically qualified aesthetic doctor with over seven years of experience and more than 1,000 patients treated.
What sets Alcove Aesthetics apart
- Doctor-only treatments: All injections carried out by Dr Goziem himself.
- Award-winning care: Best Anti-Ageing Practitioner (Central London 2024 and 2025).
- Advanced anatomical knowledge: MSc in Aesthetic Medicine with extensive injector training.
- Natural, balanced outcomes: Tailored to your individual facial structure.
- Follow-up reviews: Included to ensure safety and satisfaction.
The Treatment Journey
- Consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed assessment of your skin quality, facial structure and rejuvenation goals. - Treatment
Sculptra or dermal fillers are administered using fine cannulas or micro-needles to ensure precision and comfort. - Aftercare
You’ll receive a bespoke aftercare plan and follow-up appointment to monitor progress. - Results
Fillers show instant lift; Sculptra develops gradually for long-lasting renewal.
Recovery and Aftercare
Both treatments involve minimal downtime.
- Mild redness, swelling or tenderness may occur for 24 to 48 hours.
- Avoid makeup for 12 hours and strenuous activity for one day.
- With Sculptra, gentle massage (the “5-5-5 rule”: five minutes, five times a day for five days) helps distribute the product evenly.
You can return to work immediately after treatment.
Cost and Transparency
At Alcove Aesthetics, Pall Mall, pricing is clear and honest:
| Treatment | From |
|---|---|
| Sculptra | £350 (1 vial) |
| Dermal Fillers | £650 (Precision 2 ml) |
| Refine Filler Package | £950 (3 ml) |
| Enhance Filler Package | £1,250 (4 ml) |
| Signature Transformation | £1,750 (4 ml filler + Botox + Skin Boosters) |
A £50 booking fee secures your consultation and is redeemable against treatment. Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 19:00, with evening sessions by request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Sculptra and fillers be combined?
Yes. Sculptra restores foundation while fillers refine shape and contour. This combination often gives the most natural, lasting result.
Are the treatments painful?
Both are well tolerated. A numbing cream or local anaesthetic is used for comfort.
When will I see results?
Fillers work instantly. Sculptra builds gradually, with full effects after about 3 months.
How long do results last?
Fillers last around 9 to 12 months; Sculptra can last up to 24 months.
Is it safe?
Yes. Treatments are performed by a medically qualified doctor using CE-marked products and sterile technique.
Book Your Sculptra or Filler Consultation in Central London
Whether you want instant contour or long-term rejuvenation, discover your ideal approach with Dr Goziem Onuchukwu at Alcove Aesthetics, 120 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EA.
Call 07457 404 982, email info@drgoziem.com, or book online at alcoveaesthetics.com/appointments.
Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. A full consultation with Dr Goziem Onuchukwu is required to determine suitability. All treatments are doctor-administered at Alcove Aesthetics, Pall Mall, London.
