12–18 months for facial treatments and 9–12 months for hand rejuvenation. Results are enhanced by the stimulation of collagen, peaking at around 12 weeks after treatment. To maximize longevity, avoid excessive sun exposure and maintain hydration post-injection.
What Is Radiesse?
Radiesse is a biocompatible, biodegradable dermal filler with microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite in a water-based gel carrier. It differs from hyaluronic acid fillers since, besides offering immediate volume, Radiesse has the effect of stimulating neocollagenesis-a process that leads to increased production of collagen over time. This is where its high efficacy for both volume loss and structural aging has arisen.
CaHA microspheres in Radiesse are similar in composition to the mineralized component of human bone; hence, it is well-tolerated and considered an effective option for aesthetic applications. Clinical studies have demonstrated Radiesse stability of 12–18 months in the cheeks and jawline. For example, in facial contouring, Radiesse gives immediate effects of lifting and sculpting, while its action on collagen-stimulated effects forms a scaffold to remodel the skin over the longer term.
Unlike temporary fillers that break down easily, Radiesse provides structural integrity much like natural tissue. Because of this, it is particularly well-suited for deeper planes of injection and areas where a high degree of support is needed, such as along the jawline or in the mid-face. In fact, in one study appearing in Dermatologic Surgery, patients who received Radiesse treatment in the lower face demonstrated up to 40% improvement in skin elasticity within six months after injection.
How It Works
Radiesse works through a unique two-phase mechanism. In the immediate phase, the gel carrier fills and smooths wrinkles, folds, and areas of volume loss, providing an instant cosmetic result. Over the next 3–6 months, the CaHA microspheres act as a biostimulatory agent, promoting fibroblast activity and collagen deposition in the surrounding tissues.
Immediate Effects
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The gel carrier itself provides the initial filling effect, which may last up to 6 months before the body absorbs it.
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Clinical trials suggest that more than 90% of patients experience significant enhancement in the severity of the wrinkles immediately after treatment.
Stimulated Collagen Production
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This second stage involves the actual generation of collagen, starting at approximately 4 weeks after treatment and reaching its peak at close to 12 weeks.
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Histological analysis of treated skin showed that Type I and Type III collagen density increased by 30% six months after injection, thus underlining the long-lasting rejuvenation effect of Radiesse.
This dual action makes Radiesse suitable for both those patients who want rapid results and those who look for long-lasting improvement. In comparison with fillers like Restylane or Juvederm, relying on their gel properties, Radiesse provides superior longevity and integration into tissues.
Treatment Areas
Radiesse is FDA-approved for a range of aesthetic applications, particularly for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles, folds, and loss of volume. It is also CE-marked for use in hand rejuvenation in Europe.
Facial Rejuvenation
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Nasolabial Folds: Radiesse effectively smooths deep nasolabial folds for 12–15 months, with some patients reporting subtle improvements lasting up to 18 months.
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Cheek Augmentation: It provides an immediate lift and volume, ideal for mid-face contouring. Studies have demonstrated that 85% of treated patients showed improvement in facial symmetry and fullness within 4 weeks.
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Jawline Contouring: The robust consistency of Radiesse is excellent for redefining the jawline and reducing the appearance of jowls. Results can last up to 18 months, as supported by data published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Hand Rejuvenation
The hands are usually the first to reveal signs of aging because they are constantly exposed and have a thinner skin layer. Radiesse rebuilds lost volume and lessens the prominence of veins and tendons. It lasts 9–12 months. A multicenter study consisting of 85 patients showed that 97% of participants reported remarkable improvements in hand appearance six months post-treatment.
Before and After
The change brought about by Radiesse is often dramatic and well-documented in clinical images.
Facial Results
Before treatment, deep wrinkles and loss of volume and sagging contours characterize patients. The after pictures depict remarkable improvements in skin texture-smoothing, wrinkle reduction, and structural definition. For instance, those with severe nasolabial folds resulted in a 50% wrinkle depth reduction within two months.
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Mid-cheek augmentation with Radiesse is predictable, with restored volume in the mid-face and a natural elevation noticeable within weeks. In fact, according to an American Society for Dermatologic Surgery online survey, patients report feeling up to 5 years younger after treatment.
Hand Rejuvenation
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There is an immediate plumping of the hands, especially for those patients who have very prominent hand veins with tendons that can be seen easily. The effect lasts up to a year, with a 70% reduction in perceived hand aging, as reflected in patient satisfaction scores.
Duration of Results
Radiesse is highly durable compared to other types of dermal fillers. The reason for its durability relates to the CaHA microspheres stimulating the collagen.
Facial Applications
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For areas like the cheeks and jawline, the volumization effect of Radiesse is constant for 12–18 months, whereas hyaluronic acid fillers last only 6–12 months.
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In areas where the skin is thinner or is more mobile, like the nasolabial folds, it tends to last 9–12 months.
Hand Rejuvenation
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Radiesse in the hands lasts for 9–12 months. In a comparative study with hyaluronic acid fillers, Radiesse lasted 30% longer, requiring fewer touch-ups.
Safety and Risks
Radiesse is considered to be a very safe product with a low rate of side effects if used by experienced practitioners. Possible, usually temporary, side effects include some redness, swelling, and bruising at the site of injection. These typically settle within 1–2 weeks.
Rare Complications
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Granuloma formation is rare, less than 1% of cases. This risk can be minimized by proper injection techniques and adequate patient screening.
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Vascular occlusion is a very rare complication that can occur by inadvertently injecting the filler into a vessel. Ultrasound-guided injection techniques are gaining popularity to avoid such complications.
Allergy Testing
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Allergy testing is not required for Radiesse, as the CaHA microspheres are non-animal-based and highly biocompatible. Studies confirm a 0% incidence of allergic reactions in treated patients.
Who It’s For
Radiesse is designed for individuals seeking long-lasting solutions to facial volume loss, wrinkle reduction, and hand rejuvenation.
Ideal Candidates
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Age Group: Most suitable for individuals aged 35–65, especially those experiencing moderate to severe volume loss.
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Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, though it finds its best use in mature, drooping skin due to the lifting effect of the product.
Combination Treatments
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Radiesse is often combined with neuromodulators such as Botox for a comprehensive facial rejuvenation approach. For instance, Radiesse would provide structural volume while Botox would reduce dynamic wrinkles, creating a sort of synergy.
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