What Is Radiesse
is an injectable filler mainly made up of calcium hydroxylapatite, which occurs naturally in bones and teeth. Therefore, it is highly biocompatible and very low in immune reactions. Initially indicated for soft tissue reconstruction and rejuvenation for aging hands, Radiesse now finds itself widely used in aesthetic medicine.
Besides, Radiesse differs in modes of action from other fillers in that it has both immediate volumetric effects and collagen stimulation and induction. Following injection, the CaHA microspheres form a mesh that supports the skin tissue while simultaneously inducing the body to produce natural collagen. Thus, Radiesse acts rapidly while remaining effective at least 12 to 18 months after application.
Radiesse boasts a greater than 85% satisfaction rate in facial applications, as per statistics. With immediate closure of both skin firmness and fullness, patients report more results over several months after the procedure. Its extremely flexible applications include the correction of nasolabial folds, chin augmentation, and rejuvenation of sunken hands, which can offer noticeable results.
How Radiesse Works
This synergetic mechanism of action of Radiesse is through its CaHA microspheres and gel carrier. An injection fills in voids in the region with the carrier gel, providing immediate volumization. But the CaHA microspheres set up a scaffold-like structure in the dermis, which supports surrounding tissue and stimulates fibroblast activity.
In the study, more than 75% of patients declared improved skin elasticity and texture six months following the injection and attributed this to the long-term effects from collagen regeneration. Newly generated collagen tightens the skin while restoring a more naturally glowing appearance.
What is really interesting is that the CaHA microspheres in Radiesse are designed to be between 25 and 45 microns in diameter. This is small enough to minimize discomfort during injection but large enough to avoid phagocytosis by cells. After about a year, these microspheres degrade, while new collagen continues to maintain improvements.
A physician can customize the injection depth and distribution according to the patient. Deep injections are usually for lifting the chin or cheeks, while surface injections are used to fill static wrinkles such as nasolabial folds. The treatment typically lasts about 30 minutes and requires little recovery time, allowing most patients to return to normal activities the day of treatment.
Common Side Effects
radiesse has few side effects, but like other aesthetic procedures, some risks exist. It is considered clinically safe. Some common short-term side effects include redness, minor bruising, and itching at the locations of injection. These typically resolve within a week and require no additional treatment.
Overall, 10% of the 500 patients in a clinical experiment developed minor lumpiness at injection sites. This is often because the filler has not yet fully incorporated into the tissue. Such lumps can be more prominent, affecting the appearance, especially if they were injected too superficially.
Mild inflammatory reactions are sometimes seen in people with sensitivities, though the incidence rate is less than 1%. Rare complications, such as infections, migration of the filler, and occlusions of blood vessels, may occur. Importantly, if the filler is injected into blood vessels accidentally, it can lead to severe consequences, such as tissue necrosis and blindness, highlighting the importance of choosing a skilled practitioner.
Safety Compared to Others
Compared to (HA) fillers, Radiesse is longer-lasting and provides stronger structural support. HA fillers are better suited for areas with thinner skin or where precise adjustments are needed, such as under-eye hollows. Radiesse, on the other hand, excels in deep volumization and contouring for areas like the cheeks, chin, or hands.
Radiesse also differs from poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra). Both stimulate collagen production, but Sculptra requires multiple sessions to achieve visible results. Radiesse offers immediate and long-term effects in a single treatment.
Although permanent fillers like silicone or PMMA provide long-lasting results, complications are challenging to correct. Radiesse, with its resorbable nature, greatly reduces long-term risks, making it a safer and more reversible option.
FDA Approval and Studies
Radiesse has been used worldwide for facial and hand rejuvenation since its FDA approval in 2006. Studies have demonstrated its high safety and efficacy, meeting stringent clinical standards. The CaHA component was thoroughly examined by the FDA to ensure it does not cause chronic toxicity or rejection issues.
An international multicenter study involving over 1,000 patients found a 96% efficacy rate for treating nasolabial folds. Six months post-treatment, patients’ skin collagen levels increased by an average of 30%, while adverse event rates remained below 5%.
Radiesse has also been extensively studied for hand rejuvenation. Results showed superior performance in reducing prominent veins and sagging skin, lasting for as long as two years. Patient satisfaction scores exceeded 90 out of 100.
Long-Term Safety Factors
The long-term safety of Radiesse depends on its resorbable and biocompatible nature. The CaHA microspheres slowly dissolve over several months into carbon dioxide and calcium ions, which are metabolized naturally without leaving any residues. This property minimizes the risk of chronic reactions, such as granulomas.
Another key factor is the practitioner’s technique. According to statistical reports, approximately 90% of injection-related complications arise from improper technique, such as superficial injections or unintentional vascular entry. Choosing a well-trained, experienced physician is critical for ensuring long-term safety.
The health status of patients also plays a role in safety. For example, individuals with diabetes or immune deficiencies may have reduced capacity, making them more prone to infections or other complications. Such patients are often advised to follow more conservative treatment plans.
Who Should Avoid Radiesse
While Radiesse is a highly regarded dermal filler, it is not suitable for everyone. The following groups should avoid using Radiesse: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as studies on its safety for these populations are lacking, are advised against any filler treatments.
People allergic to CaHA or other filler components should also avoid Radiesse, as rare allergic reactions may cause severe inflammation or swelling.
Additionally, individuals with inflammation, skin infections, or unhealed wounds should treat these issues before undergoing injection. Finally, for superficial applications, such as under-eye hollows or lip augmentation, Radiesse may not be ideal due to its thicker consistency.
Patients should consult their doctors thoroughly before undergoing treatment and disclose any health issues, such as blood disorders, immune deficiencies, or chronic diseases, to enable the physician to develop a safe and personalized treatment plan.
