Radiesse is a FDA-approved cosmetic filler that triggers the body to produce more collagen at all those locations in the face where it is injected. This adds volume to your facial tissues; highlights your features and smoothens out lines or wrinkles, making your face look fuller and younger. The procedure is quick, and results last long, even after the treatment has been stopped.
Radiesse is made of fine microspheres of calcium hyxroxylapatitie suspended in a gel. Calcium hyxroxylapatitie is a natural substance found in the bones and teeth of the human body, so the body doesn't not react or try to break down the substance when injected externally. These microspheres act as scaffolding for the collagen network in the skin. This and the thick texture of Radiesse provide a fantastic structure to lift the skin and shape the face.
In addition to being used as a cosmetic filler, Radiesse is also used for patients who suffer from vocal cord deficiencies, maxillofacial defects and facial wasting or facial lipoaprotrophy, a common condition in HIV patients. Radiesse should not be used if you are suffering from a bleeding disorder or allergic to lidocaine.
What is Radiesse Used for?
Radiesse can be used as a cosmetic filler for any of the following:
- Folds and lines such as Nasolabial Folds, Marionette Lines, Smile Lines and Frown Lines
- Augmentation of the Bridge, Nose or Cheek
- Reshaping or Contouring of the jaw and chin line
- To treat nasal obstruction
The Radiesse Procedure
Since Calcium Hydroxylapatite is a naturally-occurring substance in the human body, patients do not need to undergo a pre-treatment or skin testing is required. Radiesse treatment is an office procedure that lasts 15 to 20 mins. The practitioner first selects the sites on the skin for the treatment and may apply a topical cream to numb the area or prevent any reaction. The Radiesse is then injected beneath the skin under the dermis and subcutis layers. In rare cases, the patient may show redness, bruising or swelling which will resolve in a few days. The effect of the treatment shows up almost immediately, but the best results are seen in a week's time. The effect lasts for up to 1 year.
General note: Results vary from person to person.
