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Radiesse
Index
Practical Information
Minimally Invasive
- Wrinkles;
- Skin Laxity.
30 to 60 minutes
1 session, depending on the degree of laxity
Practically immediate, with progressive improvement up to 1 month after the first application.
Around 18 months (variable)
What is Radiesse?
Radiesse is a commercial brand of a collagen biostimulator based on calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA). It is used for aesthetic treatments, including the smoothing of wrinkles and facial folds, volume restoration, and improvement of skin quality.
Calcium hydroxyapatite is a biocompatible and safe compound that also occurs naturally in human bones. In Radiesse, the calcium hydroxyapatite is suspended in a water-based gel and injected into the skin to fill the desired areas.
Radiesse works in two main ways: it immediately fills wrinkles and facial folds, providing an instant result, and it stimulates the natural production of collagen over time.
Over time, the Radiesse gel is absorbed by the body, but the newly produced collagen remains, delivering a long-lasting result.
What is it for?
This treatment is intended for patients seeking a long-lasting solution for facial volume loss, reduction of wrinkles and expression lines, and improvement in skin firmness and elasticity. Radiesse is versatile and can be applied to various areas, including the face, hands, and décolleté.
Radiesse is often used on nasolabial folds (marionette lines), smile lines, wrinkles around the lips, and to restore volume in the cheeks and hands.
In summary, Radiesse can serve the following purposes:
Rejuvenation
Fine and deep wrinkles
Increased skin firmness
Reduction of skin laxity
Improved skin texture
How does it work?
Radiesse works in two ways. After subdermal injection, it provides an immediate filling effect. Subsequently, the calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres act as a “scaffold” for new collagen, improving the skin’s structure and texture in a long-lasting way.
| Phase | What Happens | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Immediate filling | Gel and microspheres provide volume | Wrinkles and folds are softened |
| 2. Scaffold creation | CaHA anchors fibroblasts | Neocollagenesis begins |
| 3. Dermal matrix production | Growth of collagen I and III + elastin | Firmer and more elastic skin |
| 4. Degradation and renewal | Gel dissolves, CaHA is metabolized | New skin supported by collagen |
Application Areas
Radiesse treatment is versatile and can be applied to various areas, including the face, hands, and décolleté.
It is frequently used on nasolabial folds (marionette lines), smile lines, wrinkles around the lips, and also to restore volume in the cheeks and hands.
Recovery and Aftercare
After a Radiesse treatment, it is important to follow a series of aftercare steps to ensure optimal recovery and results.
Following the procedure, the skin may feel sensitive and inflamed around the injection site, typically improving within 24–48 hours. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur and can be treated with anti-inflammatory medication as advised by your doctor. The use of sunscreen is recommended, and excessive sun exposure and intense physical activity should be avoided on the day of the procedure.
Avoid touching the treated area during the first few hours after the procedure.
Also, avoid sleeping on the treated area during the first few nights to prevent additional pressure on the region.
On the day of the treatment, your doctor will provide all the necessary instructions.
Expected Results
1. Immediate Results
As soon as it is injected, Radiesse visibly fills the treated area, smoothing wrinkles and folds (such as the nasolabial fold) and restoring lost volume in a very natural way. This effect is provided by the gel in which the CaHA microspheres are suspended, acting as an instant volumizing filler.
2. Progressive Skin Improvement
In the weeks that follow, Radiesse naturally stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. This leads to a gradual improvement in skin firmness, texture, and elasticity, giving a more youthful and healthy appearance.
3. Long-Lasting Results
The effects of Radiesse last between 12 to 18 months, or even longer, depending on the treated area, the individual’s metabolism, and the dose used.
The newly produced collagen keeps the skin firm even after the gel and microspheres have been naturally absorbed by the body.
The correction is very long-lasting, but not permanent. Over time, the CaHA microspheres break down and are metabolized by the body’s natural processes.
4. Contour and Definition
In addition to smoothing wrinkles, Radiesse is effective in enhancing facial and body contours, especially in areas such as:
Jawline and chin (definition)
Hands (back-of-hand rejuvenation)
Cheeks and temples (volume restoration)
Radiesse Before and After
Illustrative image
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is it suitable for?
Radiesse is suitable for men and women who show signs of aging and are looking for a non-surgical alternative for rejuvenation. It is ideal for those who want natural and long-lasting results.
How long do Radiesse results last?
The results of Radiesse treatment tend to be long-lasting. After the application, the first results are practically immediate (usually noticeable within about 30 days) and can last between 18 months and 2 years, depending on several factors, including the patient’s individual response to the treatment.
Is Radiesse safe?
Radiesse is a safe treatment, approved by Infarmed and by the FDA in 2006.
Side effects are generally mild and temporary.
Is Radiesse effective?
Its effectiveness comes from its ability to immediately provide volume and lift after injection, thanks to the gel support, as well as its long-term effects of stimulating collagen production by the body itself, due to the calcium hydroxylapatite particles. This dual-action process not only corrects signs of aging in the short term but also helps improve the structure and elasticity of the skin over time.
Both our experience at Living Clinic and several clinical studies have shown that Radiesse is effective and provides long-lasting results.
What are the possible adverse effects/complications of Radiesse?
The side effects of Radiesse are usually mild and similar to those associated with other injectable fillers, such as temporary swelling, redness, and small bruises at the injection site.
Does Radiesse hurt when applied?
Most people feel only mild discomfort. The product already contains lidocaine, an anesthetic, and local topical anesthesia can also be used.
Is Radiesse permanent?
No. The body gradually reabsorbs its components, but the collagen generated prolongs the effect.
In which areas is Radiesse used?
It is used on the face (nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline contour, cheeks) and on the hands to restore volume.
Can Radiesse be used on the lips or periocular area?
No. These areas are not indicated for Radiesse due to the risk of adverse effects or undesirable results.
Who should not use Radiesse? (contraindications)
People with severe allergies, active skin infections, coagulation disorders, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding are contraindicated for Radiesse.
How does Radiesse work?
Radiesse immediately fills the treated area and, over time, stimulates the skin to produce collagen and elastin, improving firmness and elasticity.
Is there downtime after Radiesse treatment?
Generally not. You can resume your activities right after treatment, with some precautions in the first 24 hours.
When does swelling go away?
It usually disappears within 1 to 3 days. Small irregularities may improve within 1 to 2 weeks.
How many sessions are needed?
In most cases, one session is enough. In specific situations, a second touch-up application may be done.
How does Radiesse differ from hyaluronic acid?
Radiesse not only fills but also stimulates collagen production, offering longer-lasting results and additional firmness.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Yes. It can be combined with botulinum toxin, lasers, peels, or other aesthetic procedures.
Is Radiesse suitable for dark skin?
Yes. It does not present increased risks of hyperpigmentation or scarring in darker skin types.
What other collagen bio-stimulators exist besides Radiesse?
Living Clinic also uses the bio-stimulators Sculptra and Lanluma, as well as the bio-remodeler Profhilo.
Sculptra is mainly used for facial filling and the treatment of volume loss and skin laxity.
Lanluma treats signs of aging such as wrinkles, sagging, and cellulite (with Lanluma V), or serves to enhance body shape and volume, especially the buttocks (with Lanluma X).
Profhilo, a tissue bio-remodeler, is used to rejuvenate the skin and treat skin laxity, without adding volume.
Specialist Doctors
What is the price of Radiesse treatments?
1st injection: €400
Subsequent injections/sessions: €350
What our clients say about us
“I couldn’t thank Dr. Paola (dermatologist) enough for her care and kindness. She explained the procedure (CO2 laser) to me, the post-procedure care, and answered my questions. I had already had the same procedure at another clinic, but it didn’t compare to the treatment I received with this doctor…she was very dedicated and friendly. And […]
“I really enjoyed my experience at this clinic. The staff is conscientious and professional. The results were excellent and they give us a realistic view of what’s expected so we can manage expectations. I’m really satisfied!”
“Dr. Francisco Martins De Carvalho doesn’t overlook the smallest detail. He seeks perfection and finds it. A unique and sublime talent. I woke up with the body of a teenager (I’m 41). Thank you for making me smile.”
“My husband and I were seen by Dr. Paola, who was wonderful and very attentive to every detail. I highly recommend her.”
“I’ve been coming here for a while now and love my experience. The people are accommodating friendly and very professional. I’m happy with the results and it has lived up to my expectations! I shall continue to visit this clinic and I highly recommend it.”
“Super professional and top-quality team. I saw results after the first session.”
“One of the best surgeons, I’m so grateful for the excellent work he did with me! A perfectionist!! I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you, Dr. Francisco Carvalho!”
LOCATION
Where to get Radiesse treatments in Porto?
You can undergo your treatment with Radiesse at Living Clinic, located at Av. da Boavista 117, 6th Floor, Room 607, 4050-115 Porto.
Schedule a consultation to receive our recommendation for your specific case and to clarify all your questions.
Scientific Literature on Radiesse
Other Sources
- Interview with Dr. Paola Halfeld (dermatologist at Living Clinic);
- Radiesse Official Website
- Merz Aesthetics
- FDA – U.S. Food & Drug Administration
- American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)
- Verywell Health
- RealSelf
