What is Radiesse®

Radiesse® is an FDA/HEALTH CANADA-approved injectable that helps gradually replace lost collagen—the most common protein in the body that is used to form a framework to support cells and tissue—for results that can last up to 1.5-2 years.

How does Radiesse® Work?

Radiesse® contains Calcium Hydroxlyapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. CaHA is a biocompatible and biodegradable substance that promotes Collagen Type 1 and 3 production along with Elastin when injected into the body. Radiesse® can be injected undiluted or diluted imparting 2 different effects.

Undiluted Radiesse (CaHA) is highly viscoelastic meaning that is very stiff and firm and unparalleled compared to Hyaluronic Acid (HA) dermal fillers. This characteristic makes it ideal for chiseling and contouring facial features like the cheeks, mandible, and chin. When diluted, Radiesse becomes very smooth and an excellent choice to improve skin quality when injected into the subdermal layer where it can stimulate fibroblasts to increase their production of Collagen Types 1 and 3 along with elastin. Sculptra, on the other hand, only increases Collagen Type 1 production.

What can Radiesse® do for the Face?

As we age, the effects of gravity become more noticeable on our faces, especially as our facial support ligaments weaken, our skin becomes more thin, our facial fat pads shift, and our facial bones are resorbed. Radiesse® can replace age-related volume loss and improve skin quality.

Undiluted Radiesse® is ideal for chiseling and contouring facial features like the cheeks, mandible, and chin. Fibroblasts reside in the dermis and on top of bone in the periosteum. Dr. Leonardo prefers to inject Radiesse® deep on top of bone to fortify, enhance, and strengthen bony structures. It is thought that fibroblasts on the periosteum communicate with the fibroblasts in the dermis such that there is improvement in facial structure along with skin quality. Facial features can be altered to create balance with immediate correction, but still maintain a natural appearance.

When diluted, Radiesse® becomes very smooth and an excellent choice to improve skin quality when injected into the subdermal layer where it can stimulate fibroblasts to increase their production of Collagen Types 1 and 3 along with elastin. Skin quality improves over time resulting in a natural youthful appearance.

How is the Procedure Performed?

After thorough consultation, topical local anesthetic can be applied to the skin and allowed to sit for 20min to achieve adequate numbness. At times, this may be unnecessary as the product contains injectable local anesthetic. The procedure becomes more comfortable with each direct needle injection of Radiesse® to key areas of the face.

When Radiesse® is diluted, topical local anesthetic is applied to the skin of the face. A nerve block may be performed for additional comfort. A cannula is used to deliver the product to the subdermal layer of the skin. A cannula looks like a long needle but it is blunt and incapable of breaking the skin. The cannula is introduced below the skin by using a needle to create a small pilot hole. The cannula allows the injector to distribute the product along a wide area using only the single entry point.

What are the Aftercare Instructions?

Keep the injection sites clean. Avoid harsh skincare products, saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and excessive sun exposure for 72hrs. These precautions help minimize infection risks and the possibility of prolonged bruising and swelling.

How Often Do I Need to Repeat Treatment?

Undiluted Radiesse® can last 1.5-2yrs in some individuals and may be repeated when the effects have worn off.

Dilute Radiesse® requires several weeks to months to generate collagen. The treatment may be repeated 3-6 months until satisfactory results have been reached. Maintenance is recommended annually thereafter.

Am I a Good Candidate?

As with any aesthetic medical procedure, ideal candidates are generally healthy, nonsmokers with mild to moderate age-related changes. Consultation is necessary to discuss anticipated outcomes based on your medical history and presentation. Please contact the office to schedule an appointment.