Wrinkle Reduction - Radiesse® - FAQs

Radiesse®: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Radiesse®?

Radiesse® is an injectable filler that can be used to contour the face. It is particularly effective in correcting deep wrinkles of the nasolabial folds and around the mouth, and can be used to enhance the contour of cheekbones.

What is Radiesse® made of?

Radiesse® is made from calcium microspheres that stimulate your body to produce new collagen, a substance that occurs naturally in all people. It not only fills facial folds and wrinkles, but also restores volume. Unlike many other injectable fillers, Radiesse® is not made from animals, so there is no risk of transmitting diseases as might occur with animal products.

How does Radiesse® compare to other fillers?

Radiesse® is temporary but long lasting, up to a year in many cases. Radiesse® is not permanent, so its placement can be customized each time as you age. This avoids an unnatural appearance as sometimes can occur with permanent fillers.

Does Radiesse® require allergy testing?

No, unlike collagen, Radiesse® does not require allergy testing.

Is Radiesse® different from BOTOX®?

Yes, Radiesse® is different from BOTOX®, and they treat different problems, but are often used to enhance each other. Radiesse® is typically used to smooth out nasolabial folds, pre-jowl depressions, marionette lines (creases at the corner of the mouth) and to enhance cheekbones. BOTOX® is used to relax muscles to smooth out wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contractions. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we often suggest using small amounts of BOTOX® to enhance the effect of Radiesse®.

How long does the procedure take?

The injections generally take 15 to 30 minutes, but depending on what type of numbing is used, up to an extra 30 minutes may be needed.

Can Radiesse® be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Besides BOTOX®, Radiesse® can be used after light treatments such as IPL, and various lasers, as well as Microdermabrasion. All of these require little or no recovery time.

Is it painful?

We inject Radiesse® using a fine needle, and mix in a numbing agent (lidocaine). Even so, injections around the mouth may still be uncomfortable. At Medical Aesthetics of New England, PC, we provide several different ways of minimizing discomfort. Some people don’t want anything before hand to reduce pain. Many people do fine with applications of ice before and afterward. Some request a topical numbing medicine. For this to be fully effective, please plan on an extra 30 minutes for this phase of the treatment. Some people prefer dental nerve blocks to totally numb the various areas treated. We will work with you to achieve the level of comfort you desire.

What results can I expect?

We will work with you to achieve the results you desire. We can provide a subtle, more youthful look, or one that provides more dramatic results. As always, our consultation with you is complementary.

Is there anything to avoid with Radiesse®?

Yes. Anything that causes “thinning of the blood” can increase bruising and bleeding at the Radiesse® injection sites. Vitamin E supplements, St John’s Wort, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), Aleve and other NSAIDS should be avoided for at least 1 week before getting Radiesse.

Are there any side effects?

Patients normally have some redness, swelling and itching immediately after the injections, although this varies from person to person. Occasionally there may be some bruising, but because Radiesse® is injected deeper than many other fillers, there tends to be less bruising. This can last for several days. The area injected may be tender for that length of time. Radiesse® is very safe, but in a small number of people, these effects can last for up to several weeks.

Can I still get Radiesse® if I get cold sores?

Yes, but you should use an anti-viral medication such as Valtrex, Famvir or Zovirax (acyclovir) for 1 or 2 days before, to 1 or 2 days after getting Radiesse®. If you don’t have this medication readily available, we can prescribe some for you.

Can I still wear make-up and other products?

All makeup should be removed before treatment. We have the Colorescience line of mineral makeup and can apply some on you before you leave. Tri-Luma®, Retin-A and other retinoids can be used 48 hours later. Avoid heavy physical activity for the rest of day.

How do I find out more about Radiesse®?

As always, we offer complementary and private consultations to answer any questions you might have, and to show you before and after photos. If you call us at 978-263-1406 or 978-627-0233, we can schedule you for a consultation immediately. Also, www.radiesseusa.com is a helpful website.

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