RADIESSE® TREATMENT
RADIESSE® TREATMENT
Radiesse New York, Volumizing Facial Filler
Found in abundance in healthy, young skin, collagen begins to break down as our skin ages, resulting in a loss of facial volume and skin elasticity. Depleted volume and skin laxity contribute to the formation of facial wrinkles and folds, hollowing under the eyes and in the cheeks, and poor jaw line definition. RADIESSE® is a temporary dermal filler that can diminish the signs of aging and leave you looking more youthful and refreshed.
What is RADIESSE® and how does it work?
RADIESSE® is a volumizing facial filler made of tiny calcium-based microspheres, which are similar to minerals found naturally within the body, making it safe and non-allergenic. RADIESSE® injections work to replenish lost volume, fill in facial wrinkles and folds, and encourage the production of natural collagen in the skin during the months following treatment. The results are immediately noticeable and long lasting.
How is RADIESSE® different from other fillers?
RADIESSE® produces immediate improvement by replenishing lost facial volume. But, unlike other fillers, RADIESSE® does more than just temporarily fill in facial folds and wrinkles – it also rebuilds your skin’s foundation. The calcium microspheres act like a scaffold under the skin, providing structure and stimulating the production of the body’s natural collagen. This allows for longer-lasting results than many other fillers.
What areas can be treated with RADIESSE®?
RADIESSE® is FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as the “parentheses” lines that run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds). Off-label treatment with RADIESSE® can also restore youthful volume to upper and lower cheeks, the chin and jaw line, as well as temples and hands. RADIESSE® can also be used to reshape the nose. We find RADIESSE® especially beneficial in the lower face, as well as for men and patients aged 40 and above.
Is RADIESSE® safe and are there any possible side effects?
RADIESSE® is FDA-approved and has undergone rigorous testing in clinical studies to prove its safety. Made from material that has the same composition as the mineral found in teeth and bones, RADIESSE® has been used for years in many other types of surgery, including reconstructive, maxillofacial, and dental surgery. Since RADIESSE® is made from a substance that naturally occurs in the body (calcium hydroxylapatite) and contains no animal products, no allergy testing is needed before treatment.
Side effects from RADIESSE® are typically mild and rare. Temporary redness and swelling at the injection site is possible. These effects usually resolve within a few days and can be covered with makeup if desired. Rarely, tiny calcium deposits may arise as small white bumps on the surface of the skin. Any calcium deposits that may occur can be easily removed. Before your procedure, Dr. Levine will discuss with you any possible side effects and answer any questions that you may have about safety.
Who should administer RADIESSE®?
RADIESSE® injections are best administered by a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with an understanding of proper technique and safety. Both Dr. Jody Levine and Dr. Elie Levine have years of experience in administering RADIESSE®, and would be happy to answer your questions about whether RADIESSE ® is right for you.
How long will the results last?
RADIESSE® is one of the longest-lasting dermal fillers available. The results can be seen immediately and last 9 months to a year or more in many patients.
Can RADIESSE® be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Various dermal fillers and other cosmetic injectables, such as BOTOX®, are often used concurrently to treat a variety of facial areas. Additionally, different types of fillers can be used synergistically as part of advanced layer techniques. For example, Dr. Levine may elect to use one filler in the deep dermis to provide structural foundation, another in the mid-dermis to replace lost volume, and a superficial filler to help smooth away surface lines and wrinkles. RADIESSE® may also be used in combination with laser treatments or other procedures for even better results. Dr. Levine will discuss with you what procedure or combination of procedures may best suit your specific needs.
How can I prepare for RADIESSE® treatment?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Levine will thoroughly discuss your goals and expectations, including possible risks and the best way to prepare for your treatment. As much as possible, patients should avoid taking aspirin and ibuprofen-containing products (such as Advil and Motrin), St. John’s Wort, high doses of vitamin E supplements, and other blood thinners (unless medically necessary) for 1 week prior to treatment in order to minimize the risk of bruising. Patients should also avoid red wine and multivitamins for 2 days prior to treatment.
What should I expect during treatment?
RADIESSE® treatment is performed on an outpatient basis in our offices. The procedure is quick and simple, with minimal discomfort. A topical anesthetic may be used to increase patient comfort. An anesthetic is also mixed in with the product for optimal comfort. RADIESSE® is injected into the treatment area using a fine needle. Correction will be evident following treatment and will continue to improve over the subsequent days as any swelling or irritation resolves. You can resume your normal activities immediately following treatment.*
What should I expect after treatment?
Mild swelling and bruising is possible, but is not always present, for a few days following treatment. This depends on the location treated and the amount of filler that is needed. You may take Tylenol for discomfort if there is any, but don’t take aspirin or ibuprofen, which may increase bruising. Anti-bruising products containing Arnica Montana and Bromelain are offered and topical care discussed. Dr. Levine will determine which aftercare product is best for you. After treatment, patients may also choose to have LED therapy, which is known to significantly improve healing time and decrease inflammation.
