Radiesse®
Q: What is Radiesse?
A: Radiesse is a cosmetic filler that is injected into facial lines and wrinkles. Being a "next generation" filler, Radiesse lasts longer than other fillers, and it does more than just plump-up facial lines and wrinkles. Radiesse's claim is the "advanced calcium-based microsphere technology" which both restores volume and also promotes the growth of your own body's collagen.
Q: How does Radiesse work?
A: Using a very fine needle, small amounts of Radiesse are injected under your lines and wrinkles. This achieve two things: a) the missing volume under the skin is replaced, and b) tiny particles in the substance form a scaffold for the produce new collagen. This two-fold response provides visible improvement of folds and wrinkles right away, and the the body's own collagen will soon be able to fill in the wrinkles even more.
Q: What is Radiesse used for?
A: Radiesse is often used for nasolabial folds: the lines that radiate from the side of the nose to the side of the mouth. In the hands of a capable physician this will result in remarkable results (see our photos of our patients above).
Q: What sets Radiesse apart from other fillers?
A: The biggest difference is the two-fold approach that Radiesse offers: immediate results coupled with a stimulation of the body's own collagen growth.
Q: Who is a candidate for Radiesse treatment?
A: If you have facial wrinkles due to aging and volume loss are candidates for Radiesse. You will want to consult with a physician who has experience with Radiesse and other fillers to determine if this would be the best use. Generally speaking, Radiesse is a good choice if you are familiar with other filler products and prefer the convenience fewer injections..
Q: How long will Radiesse last?
A: Radiesse has been shown to last for about one year (and sometime longer). The new collagen growth simulated by it helps maintain the correction for the long term. Still, individual results may vary.
Q: Is Radiesse permanent?
A: No. The microspheres that provide the scaffoling for your own collagen will eventually break down and be absorbed by your body. This means that Radiesse is somewhere between the quickly absorbed fillers and the permanent implants that are also available.
Q: Is Radiesse safe?
A: Per the manufacutere, Radiesse has been shown to be safe and effective. Radiesse has been tested rigorously and use is by physicians in more than 200,000 patients worldwide. Its biocompatible composition means there is virtually no risk of any allergic reaction or concern that your body will reject Radiesse. If you experience any "normal" discomfort, swelling, or redness, it typically resolves within a day or two.
Q: How many treatments are required?
A: Dpending on your and Dr. Voss' treatment preferences, you can achieve full results with one treatment of "ease" into the finel result with a touch-up. We are, however, very good at this.
Q: How much does an average treatment cost?
A: Treatment costs vary depending across the US; in Washington you can pay from $500 to $1000 per treatment. Our prices are very competitive, and since we have far more experience than other other providers, our results are excellent.
Q: Does the treatment hurt?
A: We can help with topical anesthetics if you worry - most of our patients do not, but we prefer to individualize our approach.
Q: Is there a risk that Radiesse will migrate throughout the body?
A. Again, per the manufacturer (and in line with our own experience), Radiesse does not migrate and is biocompatible. The scaffolding provided by it serves to anchor it.