What is Radiesse™?
Radiesse™ is an injectable hydrogel filler that contains tiny particles of calcium hydroxylapatite (a substance that occurs naturally in human bones and teeth). Radiesse™ is a stable material that is not easily broken down by the body, and it is therefore long-lasting. It can plump up and improve the appearance of lips, and fill in deep facial wrinkles and scars. The results are natural looking and long-lasting.
How does Radiesse™ work?
Radiesse™ is injected just below the surface of the skin, plumping up and smoothing the area, and improving appearance. The hydrogel that Radiesse™ is made of carries the particles of calcium hydroxylapatite and holds them in place under the skin, creating a dermal filler. The effects of Radiesse™ are immediately apparent.
Can Radiesse™ be used under my eyes to help conceal dark eye circles?
Because of its thicker consistency, Radiesse™ is mostly recommended for areas with deeper folds under thicker skin. The delicate eye and lip area should be treated with a more pliable filler such as Juvederm. Areas such as deep nasolabial folds and most marrionette lines (smile lines) and the cheek areas can be filled with Radiesse™ for natural enhancement of skin volume.
Who is a candidate for Radiesse™ injections?
Individuals who are displeased with deep wrinkles around the mouth and cheeks, the volume of their lips, scarring or skin depressions, or frown lines would be candidates for Radiesse™ treatment. Radiesse™ can make a marked difference in all of these situations.
What are the risks of Radiesse™ treatment?
Because the material contained in Radiesse™ naturally occurs in the human body, there is little to no risk of an allergic reaction. Radiesse™ has been used safely with thousands of patients. Swelling is a naturally occurring side effect that occurs after treatment and should dissipate in 48 hours or less. There is a minute risk of inflammation and lumpiness if a patient undergoes a large-volume lip augmentation. However, this condition also resolves itself (usually within 30 to 60 days).
Is there any downtime following Radiesse™ injections?
There will be some slight swelling after your Radiesse™ treatment. It will last from one to two days, typically. (Applying ice to the treated area will help the swelling go down more quickly.) After resting for several hours, you should be able to resume all of your normal activities. However, a patient who has received Radiesse™ injections should minimize for 48 hours any activities that cause the facial muscles to move excessively or dramatically, such as drinking through straws, laughing, yelling, chewing gum or very chewy foods, and so forth.