Radiesse is an FDA-approved, calcium hydroxylapatite-based dermal filler that Drs. Burt and Will recommend to patients who want to reverse certain effects of aging. Calcium hydroxylapatite, the heaviest type of facial dermal filler, is commonly used to fill in moderate to severe creases around the face. The compound is formed by calcium-based microspheres that are suspended in a water-based gel. These microspheres are very similar to naturally-occurring minerals, so there is little chance of an adverse reaction to Radiesse treatment.
Radiesse Uses
Radiesse is commonly used in “liquid facelift” procedures to restore volume and youthfulness to the face that has been depleted through the aging process. We have found that Radiesse is very effective on patients who complain of deepening folds around the mouth, or the corners of their mouth pulling down. Radiesse is often injected in the cheek and in the jowl area, as well, to enhance volume and fullness.
Radiesse has the added benefit of stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen, which is advantageous to the overall appearance of the skin and allows for longer-lasting results
What to Expect During Treatment
Radiesse is formulated with a numbing agent for your comfort. We also pre-treat the targeted areas with ice packs and a topical numbing agent. Drs. Burt and Will use a fine needle to inject small amounts of Radiesse into the treatment area. Treatment should not be painful, and only takes 20 minutes, at most.
Radiesse Results
You should see results almost immediately. The product may feel firm under your skin right after the injection, but this can be massaged out easily. Swelling and bruising are rare and temporary side effects.
Because Radiesse stimulates your body’s natural production of collagen, it lasts longer than other dermal fillers — up to 18 months in some cases. Over time, your body will absorb the microspheres, leaving your natural collagen behind.