Radiesse
Radiesse takes a different approach than hyaluronic acid fillers: it’s made of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres that provide immediate volume while also stimulating your body’s own collagen production over time. At Genesis Dermatology in Jupiter, FL, Radiesse is a popular choice for patients wanting longer-lasting correction in the cheeks, jawline, and smile lines.
What Is Radiesse?
Radiesse is not a hyaluronic acid filler. It’s composed of tiny calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a smooth gel. The microspheres provide structure immediately, then gradually and safely break down over time, during which they stimulate your own body to produce new collagen. Radiesse is FDA-approved for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds and for restoring volume loss in the back of the hands.
Who's a Good Candidate?
Good Candidates Are Typically
- Adults with volume loss in the cheeks, jawline, or smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Patients wanting a longer-lasting, non-HA option
- Those interested in Radiesse's FDA-approved use for hand volume restoration
- Patients that are comfortable with a filler that cannot be dissolved if they change their mind, since Radiesse is not reversible with hyaluronidase
This Treatment May Not Be Right for You If
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners your physician hasn't cleared you to pause
- You have a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
- You want the option to dissolve the filler later, Radiesse cannot be reversed with hyaluronidase the way HA fillers can
- You have an active infection near the treatment site
What to Expect During Treatment
Radiesse’s thicker gel is often placed with a cannula for larger areas like the cheeks or jawline, which can reduce bruising compared to needle injections. Topical numbing is typically used, and Radiesse also contains lidocaine. Sessions generally take 30-45 minutes depending on the treatment area.
- Mild pressure during injection, especially in deeper placement areas
- Some providers recommend light massage of the treated area after injection to ensure even distribution, follow your provider's specific instructions
- Bruising and swelling are possible and typically resolve within a week or so
Possible Results
Volume is visible immediately after treatment. Over the following weeks and months, the collagen-stimulating effect continues to build, often further improving skin quality and structure in the treated area. Results typically last about a year, sometimes longer, making Radiesse one of the longer-lasting options in our filler lineup outside of Sculptra.
Before, During & After Your Treatment
Before Your Appointment
- Avoid blood thinners and alcohol for a few days beforehand if approved by your physician
- Discuss with your provider whether you're interested in facial treatment, hand treatment, or both, since technique differs by area
- Ask your provider about post-treatment massage instructions specific to your treatment area
Immediately After Treatment
- Follow your provider's massage instructions carefully, since Radiesse's placement technique differs by treatment area
- Apply ice as needed for swelling
- Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24 hours
Longer-Term Aftercare
Mild swelling or bruising typically resolves within about a week. Because Radiesse cannot be dissolved, contact your provider promptly if you notice unusual lumps, firmness, or asymmetry so it can be evaluated early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Radiesse cost in Jupiter, FL?
Cost depends on the treatment area and number of syringes needed, which your provider will determine at your consultation.
Is Radiesse the same as hyaluronic acid filler?
No. Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxylapatite, not hyaluronic acid, and works partly by stimulating your own collagen production. It also cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase the way HA fillers can.
Does Radiesse hurt?
Radiesse contains lidocaine and is often placed with a cannula, which many patients find more comfortable than needle injection, especially in larger areas like the cheeks.
How long does Radiesse last?
Results typically last about a year, and sometimes longer, thanks to the ongoing collagen-stimulating effect.
Can Radiesse be used for anything besides the face?
Yes. Radiesse is also FDA-approved to restore volume loss in the back of the hands.
Am I a good candidate for Radiesse?
Adults with volume loss in the cheeks, jawline, or hands who want longer-lasting correction and are comfortable with a non-reversible filler are generally good candidates. Your provider will confirm during a consultation.