RADIESSE and
HYERDILUTE RADIESSE

What is Radiesse and How Does it Work?

Radiesse is an advanced dermal filler composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA microspheres suspended in a gel matrix, designed to provide volume and stimulate collagen production when injected into the skin. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Radiesse works not only by adding immediate volume but also by promoting the body’s natural collagen-building process, which contributes to longer-lasting results.

 

 

What is Hyperdilute Radiesse treatment and How Does it Work?

Hyperdilute Radiesse, a more recent innovation, is a diluted formulation of Radiesse, mixed with saline or lidocaine. This makes the filler thinner, spreading more evenly across large areas, which is ideal for treating skin laxity on the neck, décolletage, and arms. It’s particularly popular for those looking to improve skin texture, elasticity, and firmness without the added volume associated with standard Radiesse.

 

 

What is the difference between Radiesse and Hyperdilute Radiesse?
Standard Radiesse adds volume and contours, while hyperdilute Radiesse focuses on improving overall skin tightening across larger areas without significant volume increase.

 

 

What are the Key Benefits of Radiesse and Hyperdilute Radiesse?

• Enhanced Skin Structure and Volume - Radiesse provides an immediate lift and volume boost, perfect for deep lines and folds, while hyperdilute Radiesse targets areas where firmness and texture improvements are desired without added fullness.

• Improved Skin Texture and Elasticity - Hyperdilute Radiesse works wonders on the neck, chest, and upper arms, where it can improve skin texture, elasticity, and tone, providing a rejuvenated appearance.

• Long-Lasting Collagen Stimulation - Both Radiesse and hyperdilute Radiesse stimulate collagen production, which can result in improvements that last 12-18 months. This collagen-building effect helps keep skin firmer and more youthful even after the filler naturally dissipates.

 

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What is the Difference Between Radiesse and Other Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers come in various compositions and formulations, each designed to address specific skin issues.

 

Radiesse vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, such as Juvéderm, Restylane, or Teoxane, are popular for their hydrating and volumizing effects. Here’s how they compare with Radiesse:

• Composition: HA fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps retain moisture and volume. Radiesse, on the other hand, is made of CaHA microspheres, which offer a different mechanism of action by providing structural support and promoting collagen production.

• Immediate and Long-Lasting Results: Both HA fillers and Radiesse provide immediate volume. However, Radiesse’s collagen-stimulating effects can lead to longer-lasting improvements in skin texture and firmness, often lasting up to 18 months, while HA fillers typically last 6–12 months.

• Ideal Treatment Areas: HA fillers are often used for fine lines, lips, and under-eye hollows, where their soft texture and hydrating effects are beneficial. Radiesse is better suited for deeper lines and folds, as well as facial contouring in areas like the cheeks and jawline due to its thicker consistency and lifting effect.

• Reversibility: HA fillers are reversible through the injection of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid. Radiesse is not reversible, which means patients need to ensure they’re satisfied with the results before treatment, as it naturally dissolves over time.

In summary, HA fillers are excellent for subtle volume and hydration, especially in delicate facial areas, while Radiesse is better suited for structural support, deeper lines, and collagen-stimulating effects, making it ideal for those seeking long-term anti-aging benefits.

 

Radiesse vs. Sculptra

Sculptra is another popular dermal filler that, like Radiesse, primarily stimulates collagen production. Here’s how they differ:

• Composition and Mechanism: Sculptra is made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable substance that gradually replaces lost collagen. Unlike Radiesse, which provides immediate volume and collagen stimulation, Sculptra’s effects build over time as collagen production increases in response to the PLLA particles.

• Gradual and Long-Term Results: Radiesse provides immediate volumizing results that continue to improve as collagen forms. Sculptra, however, requires multiple sessions, with results typically becoming visible a few months after the initial treatment series. Sculptra’s results are also long-lasting, with effects typically persisting for up to two years.

• Ideal Treatment Areas: Sculptra is particularly effective for large volume restoration and works well in areas like the cheeks, temples, and jawline, where gradual volume increase is desired. Radiesse, especially in its hyperdilute form, is favoured for skin tightening and texture improvement across broader areas like the neck, chest, and upper arms.

In essence, while both Radiesse and Sculptra stimulate collagen production, Radiesse provides faster results and is often chosen for immediate lift and structure. Sculptra, however, is ideal for those looking for gradual, natural-looking volume over time, especially in areas that benefit from subtle changes.

 

 

Is Radiesse Safe?

Radiesse has been FDA-approved and is widely regarded as a safe, effective treatment when administered by a qualified provider. Hyperdilute Radiesse uses the same safe ingredients in a modified application to treat broader areas safely.

 

 

What are the Side Effects of Radiesse Treatment?

Common Side Effects

Most side effects of Radiesse are mild and temporary, resolving within a few days. Common side effects include:

• Redness and Swelling: Mild redness and swelling at the injection site are common. These symptoms generally resolve within a few hours to a day. Applying a cold compress and avoiding heat exposure can help reduce these effects.

• Bruising: Minor bruising may occur, especially in sensitive areas or if blood vessels are close to the injection sites. This usually fades within a week and can be concealed with makeup once initial healing has taken place.

• Tenderness: Some patients experience mild tenderness or firmness at the injection site for a few days. This is a natural response to the injection and can be managed with gentle massage if recommended by the provider.

 

Rare Risks

Although rare, there are potential risks associated with Radiesse. Here’s an overview of rare complications and how they’re prevented:

• Vascular Occlusion: If filler accidentally enters a blood vessel, it can block blood flow. To minimize this risk, advanced injection techniques are used alongside detailed knowledge of anatomy.

• Infection: Though extremely rare with proper hygiene, infections can occur. Mild antibiotic treatment can resolve infections in the rare cases they occur.

• Allergic Reactions: Radiesse is highly biocompatible, meaning allergic reactions are rare. However, if patients have a history of hypersensitivity to similar products, they should discuss this with their provider. A patch test or preliminary consultation may be recommended to confirm Radiesse is safe for them.

 

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How soon can I see the results of Radiesse Treatment?

Radiesse offers an immediate volumizing effects, ideal for areas like the cheeks, jawline, and deep facial lines. Most patients notice an improvement as soon as the procedure is complete. The collagen-building effects of Radiesse take longer to develop, usually beginning to show within 4–6 weeks post-treatment as collagen production increases, leading to firmer, smoother skin over time.

 

For hyperdilute Radiesse, the subtle improvements in skin quality and texture may be noticeable within a few weeks, with full benefits typically developing over the following three months as collagen continues to build.

 

 

How Long do Radiesse Results Last For?

Radiesse provides lasting results due to its dual effect of immediate volume and collagen stimulation.

 

Standard Radiesse results often last between 12 to 18 months, with touch-ups recommended yearly for optimal maintenance.

 

For hyperdilute Radiesse, the collagen-stimulating effects can extend results up to 18 months as well, particularly in areas like the neck, chest, and upper arms. Maintenance sessions every 12–18 months help prolong results and support ongoing skin quality improvements.

 

 

Can Radiesse Treatment be Combined with Other Treatments?

Yes, Radiesse or Hyperdilute Radiesse can be combined with other aesthetic procedures such as hyaluronic acid fillers, Botox, and Morpheus 8 to achieve more comprehensive results.

 

Dr Lauren will create a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.

 

 

Am I a candidate for Radiesse  treatment?

​Radiesse treatment is suitable for most skin types, but a consultation is necessary to determine personal suitability.

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Radiesse treatment is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Radiesse treatment may not be suitable for: 

• Patients with infection at the proposed treatment site.

• Patients on blood thinning medication (e.g. aspirin, warfarin).

• Patients taking over-the-counter medication that can thin the blood or increase bruising (Omega-3, Vitamin E, Cod liver oil, Garlic, St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba).

• Patients with a suppressed immune system.

• Patients with an autoimmune disease.

• Patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of the product, or who have multiple confirmed allergies.

 

 

Is Radiesse Treatment Painful?
Both Radiesse and hyperdilute Radiesse treatments are typically well-tolerated, though patients may feel slight pressure or stinging during injection. Some discomfort may occur, particularly with hyperdilute Radiesse in sensitive areas. However, numbing cream can be applied before treatment to minimize pain.

 

 

Advice prior to treatment

• For seven days prior to treatment, avoid blood thinning over-the-counter medication such as aspirin, or ibuprofen-based medications, Omega-3, Vitamin E, Garlic, St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba. If you are prescribed a blood thinning medication such as aspirin or an anticoagulant by your doctor for a cardiovascular condition, then please check with your doctor prior to stopping the medication.

• For 24 hours prior to treatment, do not drink alcohol to avoid extra bruising.

• On the day of treatment, arrive to the clinic with a clean face.

 

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What to expect on the day

• Dr Lauren will go through what your aims are for treatment and will explain to you what is appropriate and achievable. A treatment plan will be agreed upon prior to treatment.

• You will fill in a medical assessment questionnaire and complete a written consent form.

• Pre-treatment photographs will be taken for your medical records.

• Any make-up will be removed from treatment area with a baby wipe.

• The area will be cleaned again with chlorhexidine solution.

• Polynucleotide solution is injected into the targeted areas using a fine needle or a cannula. Numbing cream may be applied to the area if required.

• Post-procedure cream will be applied to the treated area following treatment.

• You will be given a post-treatment advice sheet.

• Dr Lauren will let you know if any further treatments or follow-up is required.

 

 

Aftercare instructions

• Don’t apply foundation or creams over the treatment area for 6 hours after your treatment.

• Avoid strenuous exercise first 24 hours or hot tubs.

• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours after your treatment.

• Refrain from using harsh skincare products for a few days.

• No saunas or tanning booths for 2 weeks after your treatment – and don’t have radiofrequency, IPL, laser, or any other heat treatments near the treated area for 2 weeks.

• Always wear a broad spectrum, high factor (30 or above) SPF, and avoid direct sun exposure.

• Bruising can be helped by taking oral bromelain (pineapple extract) and oral arnica, or by applying arnica cream.

• Any skin colour changes, such as an area of skin becoming purple or red, or bruising which appears abnormal, please contact the clinic immediately.

 

 

How can I book a consultation?

To book a consultation and learn whether polynucleotide treatment is right for you, please contact the clinic directly.