Radiesse – Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Injectable Filler

Radiesse^® is another form of dermal filler used for soft tissue augmentation. It is composed of beads of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) suspended in a water-based gel carrier. Radiesse works by stimulating the body into producing more collagen. It gives the skin an overall smooth appearance by adding volume to the face and is a great substance for getting rid of deep, etched-in lines around the cheek and the nasolabial folds. The result is immediate and tends to last 12 to 15 months

Radiesse^® is injected into the treated area by a fine gauge needle. Radiesse does not contain lidocaine, a natural anesthetic, as some dermal fillers do. It is necessary to use a topical and/or a local anesthetic with Radiesse^® injections.

The use of Radiesse^® is approved by the FDA to help eliminate nasolabial folds (the “parenthesis” fold around the mouth). Radiesse^® is not advised for the lips. The pressure from the muscles in the lips can cause the filler to form lumps.

Side effects may include some swelling or redness at the injection site. Radiesse^® claims that it is more cost effective than other dermal fillers. It claims that one-third lower volume is required compared to hyaluronic acid products to achieve the desired effect. This lower volume should result in lower cost per treated fold.