Description
Radiesse is a volumizing filler and formerly marketed as Radiance. It is a synthetic injectable filler that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for reducing moderate to severe wrinkles, folds, and creases around the nose and mouth by augmenting the skin’s natural collagen supply. This substance was declared by the FDA as safe, effective and as a long-lasting alternative to injectable collagen and other dermal fillers for smoothing wrinkles and adding facial volume and contour, and a more youthful appearance.
Radiesse filler is composed of microspheres in a water-based gel. The microspheres are made of a substance called calcium hydroxylapatite, which stimulates the production of collagen. When injected into lines and wrinkles, the additional collagen that is produced smooths out the lines and wrinkles, and adds volume to the skin.
The use of Radiesse
Radiesse can be used to treat problematic wrinkles and folds in the smile and marionette lines, as well as the lines around the corners of the mouth. This substance can also be used to treat the wrinkles on the chin and the folds along the side of the chin.
The procedure explained
During your consultation where your candidacy for this treatment should be weighed up and alternative options discussed, like a brow lift or face like, or even a vampire face lift, your doctor should decide on a treatment plan. Still the actual treatment will take place in the doctor’s rooms, and last around 15 minutes. After which you can leave. The swelling however will only reduce after 3 to 5 days. Plus, 7 to 14 days post the treatment you will need to go back for a follow-up visit with the doctor. This is to evaluate the results and allow your doctor to assess the possible effects of the substance on your skin.
The results will last for around a year, and touch-up are possible to extent the outcome.
The Radiesse procedure is performed in the doctor’s office. It is most often performed with local anesthesia. Patients may experience minimal discomfort from the needle injection. Depending upon the extent of treatment, the procedure can take up to 15 minutes. Patients return home within minutes after the procedure.
The procedure involves injecting a compound of calcium hydroxyl apatite micro spheres that are suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel. Calcium and phosphate ions, naturally occurring in our bodies, primarily make up the calcium hydroxyl apatite particles. The gel contains an organic compound of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, as well as glycerin and sterile water. Thin connective tissue forms around the micro spheres so that the micro spheres act as a filler that remains permanently implanted at the site location.
- Step One: The doctor may select one or more injection points for each location to be treated. Antiseptic is also applied.
- Step Two: The doctor will identify the correct amount of Radiesse for the procedure.
- Step Three: The Radiesse filler is then injected beneath the skin, under the dermis and subcutis layer.
Results are fully evident within one week. Radiesse can last two years or more, but touch-ups may be necessary throughout this time period.
Recovery after Radiesse treatment
There may be minimal swelling, which usually subsides in 24 to 36 hours. There may also be some discomfort and bruising. The discomfort can be managed with medications. Normal activities can be resumed immediately; however, patients are advised to stay out of the sun.
Complications and risks of Radiesse
A rare complication might be the appearance of nodules which would require steroid treatment or surgical intervention. Unmanageable pain or any symptoms that are progressive or abnormal should be reported to the doctor immediately. Your doctor can tell you more about possible complications and the remedies associated with each complication.
Alternative and additional treatments
There may be alternative treatment options, depending on your condition. Other minimally invasive procedures include collagen injections, Restylane and fat fillers. For severe signs of aging, surgical procedures may be more appropriate, such as a face lift. Your doctor may recommend additional treatments in conjunction with Radiesse, such as chemical peel, laser skin resurfacing or microdermabrasion.
