Radiesse, or calcium hydroxylapatite, is a nonsurgical facial rejuvenation treatment injected by a doctor. Calcium hydroxylapatite is compatible with human tissue and has a 20-year history of use for medical purposes, according to an article by researcher Patricio F. Jacovella in the March 2008 issue of "Clinical Interventions in Aging." It has received FDA approval for correction of facial wrinkles and folds, and to fill areas of facial wasting, or fat loss, caused by the medications taken by HIV/AIDS patients.
How It Works
Radiesse consists of calcium-based microspheres that are suspended in a gel, according to the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, or AAPS. Injected under the skin, the gel fills and plumps wrinkles or folds and acts as a frame for new collagen to grow on. Results continue to improve over 2 to 3 months due to collagen growth. The calcium particles dissolve slowly over time. Results last 12 to 18 months, reports the FDA.
Uses
According to the AAPS, dermal fillers restore youthful fullness to the face, soften lines and fill wrinkles by adding volume under the skin. Radiesse is used in "marionette" lines, in nasolabial folds, in frown lines and to augment cheek fullness (References 1).
Process
Radiesse is administered in a doctor's office. Patients must give informed consent before receiving treatment. With the patient in an upright or semi-upright position, the skin is cleaned and treatment areas are marked. Administration of a topical or injected numbing agent is administered. Radiesse is then injected under the skin. The doctor may massage the treatment area to ensure even placement. Each injection takes a few seconds. After the treatment, marks are washed off and an ice pack applied.
Side Effects / Adverse Reactions
Redness and swelling immediately following treatment are common, and usually resolve within five days. Bruising can develop. Serious reactions include possibility of nodules, or small knots of tissue under the skin that can be seen or felt, notes Jacovella. Nodules are most likely to form in the lip area, and result from the technique of the clinician. Granulomas, another type of small bump, occur infrequently. Pain upon injection and itching at the injection site may result, according to the FDA.
Advantages
Radiesse does not contain animal products. This lowers the risk of allergic reaction. It does not migrate, or move, from the original injection site. According to Jacovella, Radiesse can be considered an effective dermal filler because of how long the results last, its compatibility with body tissues and a low rate of adverse reactions.
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