What is Radiesse? 

Radiesse is a suspension of calcium and phosphorus molecules in a gel carrier.  This versatile filler can be used to fill superficial lines as well as volumize a cheek or chin. Radiesse is premixed with lidocaine anesthetic by the physician, then injected into the skin with virtually no pain. Once injected, the process of collagenesis begins, as the Radiesse product stimulates the production of your own collagen, which has been lost through aging, free radical damage or scarring.  Correction is immediate, natural looking, and lasts usually a year or more. 

Where is Radiesse used? 

Areas that can be treated are the cheeks and cheekbones, dark circles under the eyes, jowls, lines around the mouth, chin, temples, nose and hands.

Are there side effects?

The most common side effect is bruising, so be sure to have the injections at least 3 weeks before a social engagement.  Bruising can occur if you have taken aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, or Alleve within 2 weeks of the injection, so it's best to avoid these for two weeks prior to your Radiesse injection.  If you develop a bruised area, treatment with Homeopathic Arnica or Arnica cream can speed clearing, as can eating fresh, raw pineapple every day.

Rarely, small, tender bumps can develop under the skin at the injection site.  These are not visible but can be felt and they usually resolve within 2 months.  Gentle massage can break them up but if they last longer than 1-2 months, the physician can break them up by injecting them with saline.

What should I do after the treatment?