Radiesse

“RADIESSE© Volumizing Filler” has received FDA approval in the USA for intradermal injection to correct superficial to deep wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds.

What is Radiesse©?

It is a gel containing calcium hydroxyapatite. This substance has been used for many years in otorhinolaryngology (ears, vocal cords), dentistry, and orthopedics.

Where can Radiesse© be injected?

It is a filler for moderate to deep wrinkles and superficial to deep folds of the face (e.g., nasolabial folds on either side of the mouth). This product works by filling these areas without addressing the underlying causes.

Can I use this product safely?

Your preliminary consultation with your doctor will determine if you are allergic to any components of this product, which would contraindicate its use.

How does Radiesse© work?

Once injected, this product fills the targeted areas, and the result is immediately visible after the first treatment. It contains microspheres of a material called Calcium Hydroxylapatite, transported into the skin via an aqueous gel.

How long do the results of the treatment last?

While results may vary from person to person, studies have shown the product’s persistence in the skin beyond 12 months.

Are the injections painful?

As with any injection, there is slight pain primarily due to the needle’s passage. However, Radiesse© is now mixed with a local anesthetic (lidocaine) just before use to minimize discomfort.

Are skin tests required beforehand?

No tests are required before use.

Can I have this treatment even if I take medications?

Yes, but, as with any medical treatment, the use of anticoagulants is a contraindication, and taking acetylsalicylic acid (e.g., Aspirin©) may cause bleeding or bruising. There are no studies on potential interactions between Radiesse© and other fillers.

What are the side effects?

The main side effects are local: redness, swelling, or bruising. Generally, these manifestations disappear within a few days. Persistent swelling, irregularities, or tightness at the injection sites are rarer. Infections have also been described (a risk inherent to any injection).

How to decide if this treatment is right for me?

This basic information does not replace a consultation with your doctor.

Some clinical studies on Radiesse©

• 1 Berlin A, Hussain M, Goldberg D. (2008) Calcium Hydroxylapatite Filler for Facial Rejuvenation: A Histologic and Immunohistochemical Analysis. Dermatologic Surgery, Volume 34, S64-S67. 
• 2 Bass LS, Smith S, Busso M, McClaren M. (2010) Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) for Treatment of Nasolabial Folds: Long-Term Safety and Efficacy Results, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 30 (2), 235-238.
• 3 Moers-Carpi MM, Opi Tufet J. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (RADIESSE©) versus Nonanimal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid (Restylane©) for the Correction of Nasolabial Folds: a 60 patient, 12-Month, Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled, Split-Face Trial. Dermatol Surg 2008;34: 210-215.
• 4 Moers-Carpi M, Vogt S, Martinez Santos B, Planas J, Rovira Vallves S, and Howell DJ. A Multicenter, Randomized Trial Comparing Calcium Hydroxylapatite (RADIESSE©) to Two Hyaluronic Acids (Juvéderm© and Perlane©) for Treatment of Nasolabial Folds. 205 Patients. Dermatol Surg, 2007; 33: S144-S151.
• 5 Based on a clinical study of 50 patients. Split face treatments of RADIESSE Volumizing Filler alone and RADIESSE Volumizing Filler mixed with 2% lidocaine were given to patients. Significant pain reduction is defined as a 2 point reduction on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data on file.
• 6 Sundaram H, Voigts B, Beer K, Meland M. (2010) Comparison of the Rheological Properties of Viscosity and Elasticity in Two Categories of Soft Tissue Fillers: Calcium Hydroxylapatite and Hyaluronic Acid, Dermatol Surg, 36 (s3), 1859-1865. 

NB: This information has been translated from the user manual provided by Merz Aesthetics, Inc. (Copyright © Merz Aesthetics, Inc.)

PHOTOS

Photos of treatment results can be found on many websites, but their presence is now condemned by the Order of Physicians and Belgian law. That is why we do not show them here. However, it is legitimate for you to obtain personalized information on the topics that concern you. During your consultation, many photos will be shown to you, so you can judge and appreciate the results.

Would you like explanations and details concerning you personally? Come and meet us in consultation.