What is Radiesse?

Radiesse is a dermal filler made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a water-based gel. It is used to provide both immediate volume and long-term collagen stimulation, making it effective for facial contouring, correcting wrinkles, and adding volume to aging or sunken areas. Radiesse is commonly used for deeper wrinkles, facial folds, and restoring volume in areas like the cheeks, jawline, and hands. Radiesse is known for offering both immediate volume and long-term skin-tightening effects due to collagen stimulation.

What Does It Do?

Radiesse is used for:

• Facial contouring and volumization: It is often injected into areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and temples to add structure and support.

• Wrinkle reduction: It smooths out moderate to severe wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

• Hand rejuvenation: Radiesse is FDA-approved for use in the hands to restore volume and reduce the appearance of veins and tendons.

How Does It Work?

• Immediate Volume: When injected, Radiesse provides an immediate volumizing effect by physically filling in wrinkles and adding structure to areas of volume loss.

• Collagen Stimulation: In addition to the immediate lifting and filling effect, the CaHA microspheres stimulate the body’s natural collagen production over time. As the gel is absorbed, your body metabolizes the CaHA particles, which helps maintain the volumizing effect for months after the initial injection.

• Longevity: The collagen that is stimulated continues to provide volume and structural support even after the filler itself has been absorbed.

Is Radiesse Safe?

Radiesse is considered safe when administered by a qualified and experienced injector. It is FDA-approved and has been used in aesthetic treatments for many years. The material is biocompatible and gradually metabolized by the body over time.

However, as with any filler, there are potential side effects, including:

• Swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection site.

• Nodules or lumps, especially if improperly injected or placed too superficially.

• Vascular occlusion is very rare but possible if injected into a blood vessel, which could lead to tissue damage.

• Rare risks include nodules, lumps, or granulomas if not properly injected or if overused

How Does Radiesse Differ from Sculptra or HA Fillers?

Radiesse vs. Sculptra:

• Radiesse provides immediate volume due to its gel-like structure, while also stimulating collagen production over time.

• Sculptra (made from poly-L-lactic acid) works mainly by stimulating collagen production, with results appearing gradually over several weeks or months. Sculptra does not provide immediate volume like Radiesse.

Radiesse vs. HA Fillers:

1. Composition:

• Radiesse: Made from calcium hydroxylapatite, a substance similar to minerals found in bones and teeth. It stimulates collagen production and provides structure to the skin.

• HA Fillers: Made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body that helps retain moisture in the skin. HA fillers provide more immediate hydration and volume but don’t stimulate long-term collagen production.

2. Longevity:

• Radiesse: Typically lasts 12-18 months due to its collagen-stimulating properties. Over time, the filler is metabolized by the body, but the collagen it stimulates can help maintain results.

• HA Fillers: Last about 6-12 months, depending on the specific product and treatment area. HA fillers are gradually absorbed by the body, requiring more frequent touch-ups.

3. Areas Treated:

• Radiesse: Best suited for deeper wrinkles, folds, and areas requiring more structural support, such as the cheeks, jawline, and hands. It’s also used for non-surgical facial contouring.

• HA Fillers: Typically used for more superficial lines and wrinkles, as well as for lip augmentation, under-eye hollows, and more delicate areas of the face.

4. Reversibility:

• Radiesse: Unlike HA fillers, Radiesse cannot be dissolved with an enzyme (like hyaluronidase), so it is not reversible. This makes it important for patients to be certain of their desired results.

• HA Fillers: Can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, offering an option to reverse the treatment if needed.

Who is a Good Candidate for Radiesse?

• Is looking for long-lasting results: Ideal for individuals seeking a filler with more durability than HA fillers, particularly in areas of significant volume loss.

• Wants facial contouring: Those seeking to improve the appearance of deeper wrinkles, add definition to the cheeks or jawline, or reduce the appearance of aging hands.

•Is in good overall health: Candidates should be free of active infections, inflammations, or allergies at the treatment site.

Conclusion

Radiesse is a long-lasting dermal filler that provides both immediate volume and long-term collagen stimulation, making it ideal for addressing deeper wrinkles, facial contouring, and restoring lost volume. It is different from HA fillers in that it stimulates collagen production, lasts longer, and is not reversible. It is considered safe when administered by a skilled professional and is a good option for individuals seeking a more durable filler with structural support. Regular maintenance is typically required every 12-18 months.