Radiesse FAQ
- What is Radiesse Dermal Filler?
Radiesse dermal filler is setting a new standard for facial contouring and augmentation. It immediately adds volume to safely contour, correct, and beautify facial features. And it continues to work over time. It has patented microsphere technology and stimulates the body to produce new collagen for a soft, natural look that lasts.
- How does Radiesse Dermal Filler work?
Radiesse dermal filler is made of unique, patented, calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a water-based gel carrier. When injected into the skin, these microspheres initially perform as a filler - they immediately provide facial volume for a soft, natural look. The transformation is noticeable right away. Over time, your body will gradually absorb the gel carrier, but the very tiny, smooth microspheres remain.
- Is Radiesse Dermal Filler safe?
In years of rigorous clinical testing and use by physicians in hundreds of thousands of patients worldwide, Radiesse dermal filler has been proven to be safe and effective. Radiesse dermal filler is made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a biocompatible substance that’s identical to what’s naturally found in the body. Radiesse dermal filler does not contain any animal- or human-derived components and it has a minimal risk of allergic reaction. After injection, Radiesse dermal filler will not migrate to other parts of the body. Over time, it degrades naturally into calcium and phosphate ions that are safely metabolized by the body’s own processes.
- Has Radiesse Dermal Filler been reviewed by a notified body?
Yes. Radiesse dermal filler has received CE mark certification. It has also received two US FDA approvals, and a number of US FDA clearances.
- How is treatment with Radiesse Dermal Filler performed?
Radiesse dermal filler is injected into the skin through a simple, safe, quick, and minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Treatment typically takes place in a physician’s office with the use of a local anesthetic.
- How is JUVEDERM injectable gel different from BOTOX Cosmetic?
JUVEDERM injectable gel is a next-generation hyaluronic acid dermal filler that provides volume and is used to treat wrinkles and folds resulting from a loss of volume beneath the surface of the skin such as perioral lines and nasolabial folds (lines around your mouth and nose). JUVEDERM restores your skin's volume for a smooth, natural look and feel. BOTOX Cosmetic is not a filler. BOTOX Cosmetic relaxes muscle activity and is used to treat moderate to severe lines caused by the dominant frown muscles between the eyebrows (the glabellar area). This allows the two vertical lines between the brows, often referred to as the 11, to temporarily diminish for a smoother appearance. For important safety information about BOTOX Cosmetic, see below.
- Will I need a skin test?
Radiesse dermal filler is made of a synthetic, biocompatible substance that’s identical to what’s naturally found in the body. Because Radiesse dermal filler does not contain any animal- or human-derived components, there’s virtually no risk of an allergic reaction. That means you do not need to undergo skin allergy testing prior to treatment. However, if you believe you are having an allergic reaction to Radiesse dermal filler, seek medical attention immediately.
- Does it hurt?
At Weight and Body Solutions we use a variety of pain management techniques during treatment to ensure patient comfort. Prior to treatment, we mix each Radiesse syringe with lidocaine as well as apply a topical numbing cream.
- Are there any side effects?
There have been very few side effects reported in clinical trials and actual usage. However, you may experience some common injection-related reactions, such as mild irritation, edema, swelling, itching, discoloration, or tenderness at the injection site. These conditions typically resolve themselves within one to two days.
- What if I am taking medication?
Patients may need to refrain from taking some medications and supplements for a few days prior to treatment. If you would like to know if you need to refrain from taking your medications or supplements, please call us at 813.886.4395.
- How soon can I expect results?
You'll see results immediately after treatment. Radiesse dermal filler continues to deliver results over time as it stimulates your body to produce new collagen. Results may last up to a year or more in many patients, which may result in fewer office visits for retreatment.
- How quickly can I return to my normal activities?
Most patients experience little to no downtime and return to normal activities almost immediately after treatment. Other patients may need more time for recovery. By 24 hours after treatment, most swelling and redness will have subsided.
- How long will my results last?
Treatment results last up to a year or more for many patients. Individual results may vary, depending on age, skin type, lifestyle, and metabolic rate, so be sure to discuss your expectations with your doctor.
- Will Radiesse Dermal Filler become hard or noticeable to the touch?
No. Radiesse dermal filler stays soft and will take on the characteristics of the surrounding tissue.
- Is Radiesse Dermal Filler permanent?
No. Treatment results last a long time, but they are not permanent. The tiny, calcium-based microspheres in Radiesse dermal filler eventually break down into calcium and phosphate ions. These ions are safely and naturally absorbed into your body, leaving your own newly produced collagen in place.
- How many treatments will I need?
Many patients will achieve their desired result after just one treatment. To ensure your satisfaction, your physician may schedule a follow-up visit, where a touchup treatment might be recommended.
- How much does Radiesse Dermal Filler cost?
Because treatment is customized for each patient, the cost varies. In general, the cost of Radiesse dermal filler is comparable to that of similar fillers. The results may last up to a year or more for many patients. That means you may need fewer office visits for retreatment, which could save you money and time. Come in for a free consult for a recommendation as to how Radiesse dermal filler can best meet your individual needs.