Dermal Fillers Part 3: Biostimulatory Fillers (Radiesse)

Last week, we discussed the differences between hyaluronic acid-based fillers Restylane®, Perlane® and Juvéderm®. Today we will cover Radiesse, the biostimulatory filler we offer at Port City Plastic Surgery.

Last week, we discussed the differences between hyaluronic acid-based fillers Restylane®, Perlane®, and Juvéderm®. Today, we will cover Radiesse, the facial rejuvenation biostimulatory filler we offer at Port City Plastic Surgery, which works to boost collagen and elastin production in the skin to address severe facial wrinkles and give you a more youthful appearance.

What is Radiesse?

Radiesse is a dermal filler that uses two different components to give longer-lasting results than most other dermal fillers. Radiesse is made of tiny calcium-based spheres suspended in a water-based gel carrier. When injected into facial hollows or folds, the gel is absorbed quickly, but the spheres remain, stimulating collagen production and creating a structure that mimics connective tissue. This means that Radiesse gives good results until the spheres themselves are completely absorbed. Recent studies have shown that about 80% of users see results that last over a year, although your results may vary.

How are Radiesse Injections Different?

Radiesse treatment is different from the hyaluronic acid-based fillers (Restylane®, Perlane®, and Juvéderm®) because it is a biostimulatory filler. When it is injected into the subcutaneous tissue, it stimulates the skin to produce more collagen, and thereby has longer-lasting results for deeper wrinkles and folds. Radiesse is good for treating nasolabial folds (parenthesis lines from the nose to the mouth) and adding volume in facial hollows.

Hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane®, Perlane®, and Juvéderm®) can also be dissolved with a simple injection of hyaluronidase in the unlikely event of a lump or asymmetry. The body will naturally absorb and rid itself of Radiesse over time, but once injected, Radiesse cannot be reversed.

Radiesse Recovery

After your Radiesse treatment, you will want to avoid strenuous exercise, excess sun exposure, alcohol, and blood thinners. During the beginning recovery period, you may have some swelling, bruising, and discomfort (after the topical anesthetic wears off), but those side effects will dissipate within a day or two. You will not see immediate results. The collagen needs time to build up in the skin before you see the most significant results. This process typically takes 1-3 weeks.

Why Choose Port City Plastic Surgery

Today, dermal filler injection is becoming so common that it is sometimes entrusted to nurses, aestheticians, or others who have not received training and certification in Plastic Surgery. At Port City Plastic Surgery, only Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse performs injections of facial fillers. Dr. Widenhouse believes that all patients deserve personal treatment and that his expertise will help them achieve superior results. His education, years of experience, and knowledge of facial anatomy ensure his clients get the results they desire.

Schedule a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about dermal filler injections and whether they can help you, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse at Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina.