When it comes to enhancing your curves without surgery, non-surgical butt lift treatments like Sculptra and Radiesse are leading the way. These minimally invasive procedures have become go-to options for clients who want a lifted, fuller appearance without the risks and downtime of traditional butt augmentation surgery.
But if both Sculptra and Radiesse can sculpt and firm the buttocks, how do you know which one is better for you?
At Elegance Aesthetics, we specialize in personalized non-surgical butt lift procedures in Pikesville and Baltimore. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits of each treatment, how they work, and how to decide which one aligns best with your body, goals, and lifestyle.
What Is a Non-Surgical Butt Lift?
A non-surgical butt lift is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape, volume, and contour of the buttocks using injectable fillers instead of surgery. These treatments offer a safe, convenient alternative to more invasive procedures like Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) or silicone implants.
Benefits of non-surgical butt lifts include:
- No general anesthesia
- Minimal downtime
- Lower risk of complications
- Gradual, natural-looking results
- Improved skin texture and firmness
The two leading fillers used for this purpose are Sculptra and Radiesse, and while they’re both effective, they work differently.
How Sculptra Works
Sculptra is a biostimulatory injectable made with poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Rather than simply adding volume, Sculptra stimulates your body’s natural collagen production over time. This means the results build gradually, creating a subtle, natural lift and firming effect.
Key benefits of Sculptra:
- Stimulates collagen for long-lasting improvement
- Improves volume, skin texture, and elasticity
- Addresses dimpling, cellulite, and mild sagging
- Results last 2+ years with proper maintenance
- Ideal for patients seeking a natural-looking lift
Sculptra is best suited for clients who are patient with their results and want a subtle, refined outcome that improves over time.
How Radiesse Works
Radiesse is also a biostimulatory filler, but it’s formulated with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel. Like Sculptra, Radiesse promotes collagen production, but it also provides immediate volume upon injection thanks to its thicker consistency.
Key benefits of Radiesse:
- Immediate visible volume with continued collagen stimulation
- Smooths out dimples, cellulite, and irregular skin texture
- Excellent for contouring and shape enhancement
- Long-lasting results (up to 18 months)
- Fewer treatment sessions are needed compared to Sculptra
Radiesse is a great option for patients who want more noticeable results sooner and are focused on shaping as well as lifting.
Comparing Sculptra and Radiesse
Both treatments are safe, effective, and FDA-approved. However, there are a few important differences that can help you and your Elegance Aesthetic practitioner decide which one is right for your goals.
| Sculptra | Radiesse | |
| Primary Ingredient | Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) | Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) |
| Mechanism | Stimulates collagen over time | Immediate volume + collagen boost |
| Visible Results | Gradual (4–8 weeks) | Immediate + long-term improvement |
| Treatment Frequency | 2–3 sessions spaced weeks apart | Often effective after 1–2 sessions |
| Ideal For | Subtle volume, skin texture, lift | More defined contour and projection |
| Longevity | 2+ years with maintenance | Up to 18 months |
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
Your body is unique and so are your aesthetic goals. Some clients are looking for a gentle lift and smoother skin. Others want more defined volume and shape. Here’s how to approach your decision:
Sculptra May Be Better If:
- You want a natural, gradual transformation
- You’re willing to wait several weeks for full results
- You’re more focused on skin quality, firmness, and texture
- You don’t mind coming in for multiple sessions
Radiesse May Be Better If:
- You want instant volume and faster results
- You’re seeking a more sculpted contour
- You’d prefer fewer treatment appointments
- You want visible results before a special event or occasion
What to Expect from Your Treatment at Elegance Aesthetics
At Elegance Aesthetics, every non-surgical butt lift begins with a detailed consultation. We take the time to understand your goals, medical history, and body type so we can build a treatment plan just for you.
The Consultation
You’ll sit down with one of our expert injectors to discuss your desired outcome, address any concerns, and decide together which filler is most appropriate.
The Procedure
Before treatment begins, we’ll apply a topical numbing cream to keep you comfortable. Then your injector will administer a series of precise injections to each side of the buttocks. The session typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Aftercare
Both treatments have minimal downtime. You can return to light activities right away, though we recommend avoiding intense exercise for 24–48 hours. We also advise gentle massage of the area in the days following treatment, which supports even product distribution and optimal results.
Common post-procedure symptoms include mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness, which resolve on their own in a few days.
Why Choose Elegance Aesthetics?
Clients throughout Pikesville and Baltimore trust Elegance Aesthetics for our tailored, expert approach to body and skin treatments. Here’s why patients choose us for their non-surgical butt lifts:
Expert Injectors: Our licensed and experienced team understands facial and body anatomy and uses advanced techniques to ensure symmetry and safety.
Custom Plans: We listen carefully to your needs and build a plan that fits you, not just your desired look.
Quality-First Philosophy: From our treatment rooms to our products, everything we use meets the highest standards of care and cleanliness.
The Bottom Line: Which Is Better?
So, which is better — Sculptra or Radiesse? It depends entirely on your personal goals.
Sculptra is ideal for those who want a slower, more natural-looking lift with benefits that build over time. Radiesse is great if you’re after faster, more noticeable results and enhanced shaping.
At Elegance Aesthetics, you don’t have to make this decision alone. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through both options and recommend the best path based on your desired outcome and lifestyle.
FAQs
Is the non-surgical butt lift painful?
Most clients report only mild discomfort during the procedure. A numbing cream is applied before treatment to help minimize any sensitivity.
How long do results last?
Sculptra results can last up to 2 years or more with maintenance, while Radiesse results typically last up to 18 months.
How many sessions do I need?
Sculptra usually requires 2–3 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Radiesse often delivers visible results after 1–2 sessions.
Can I combine both treatments?
In some cases, yes. Your practitioner may recommend a combination approach depending on your body and goals. This will be discussed during your consultation.
What’s the downtime like?
Downtime is minimal. Most clients return to normal activities the same day, though we advise avoiding vigorous workouts for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
Will the results look natural?
Yes. Both Sculptra and Radiesse are designed to work with your body’s own collagen, which leads to soft, natural-looking volume and improved skin quality.
