What is Radiesse®?
Radiesse® is a synthetic filler which is optimized for use correcting volume loss and providing a maximum lifting effect. Radiesse® is an injectable gel which was first approved for use as dermal filler in 2006. For the first 10 years this product was on the market, it was indicated for correction of wrinkles and folds in the face. In 2015, Radiesse® became the only product ever to be FDA approved for volume correction in the hands.
How is it Used?
Radiesse® is similar to HA fillers in that the effects of an injection are apparent immediately after injection. This treatment is administered as an injectable gel in much the same manner as other filler products. Ideal facial applications include lifting of the central portion of the face (midface), correction of deep lines or folds around the mouth, placement along the jaw line to reestablish a youthful contour, and for the correction of severe hollowing of the cheeks or temples. This product is generally not placed near the skin’s surface due to its relatively stiff consistency. Dr. Biesman does not recommend use of this treatment under the eyes or in the tear trough region. Radiesse® and other fillers such as Restylane®, Juvederm®, and Belotero®, are frequently used during the same injection session as each product has optimal uses for which they are ideally suited.
How Long Are the Effects of Apparent?
The effects of this treatment can last for a year or more. This treatment does stimulate our bodies to produce collagen, so even once the product has been reabsorbed, a residual benefit remains. Unlike HA fillers, once injected Radiesse® cannot be easily dissolved or removed.
What to Expect after Treatment
Like other injectable fillers, treatments can lead to bruising and swelling. If you are taking blood thinners such is aspirin, anti-inflammatories, or even supplements such as fish oil, you may wish to discontinue these prior to your treatment. If a physician has prescribed the use of blood thinners, you must obtain permission to discontinue the use of these products. Cold compresses can be helpful in minimizing the amount of bruising or swelling after Radiesse® injection. The risk of these side effects is no higher after Radiesse® injection than after any other filler treatment.
Radiesse® for Aging Hands
Due to a combination of aging, sun exposure, and genetics, hands tend to become thin and bony appearing as we age. Veins can become more apparent and the skin becomes fragile. It is often said that while faces can look great, hands don’t lie about your age. Radiesse®, among other products, had been used for many years to improve the appearance of aging hands. Due to the outstanding results reported by physicians using Radiesse® in the hands, a formal trial was performed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this product in improving the appearance of aging hands. On account of the outstanding results achieved in this trial, Radiesse® became the first product to receive an FDA indication for hand rejuvenation.
How is Radiesse® administered to the hands?
Radiesse® is injected into the hands in a similar fashion as it is administered in the face. Topical anesthetic cream is applied to the hands prior to injection so there is minimal to no discomfort during the actual treatment. Both hands can be treated in just a few minutes. The duration of visible effect is at least one year.
What to expect after treatment of the hands
Following Radiesse® injection of the hands, it is normal to experience some swelling. The swelling typically is not significant enough to interfere with daily activities and resolves gradually over the course of several days to a couple of weeks. There are no special restrictions after Radiesse® treatment of the hands.
Can Radiesse® treatment of the hands be combined with other rejuvenation treatments?
While this injection corrects volume loss and thinning of the hands, it does not address changes in skin discoloration such as brown “sunspots”. These are best addressed by laser or IPL treatments which can be administered during the same visit as Radiesse® injection. The combination of Radiesse® injection and skin rejuvenation treatment will help restore your hands to their youthful beauty.
Who is qualified to administer Radiesse® to the hands?
Merz Inc., which manufactures Radiesse®, has carefully selected a small number of highly skilled injectors to be the first officially authorized to administer Radiesse® in the hands. We are proud to announce that Dr. Biesman and Molly Katz, R.N. are included in this elite group.
Contact our office today to learn if you are a candidate for Radiesse® treatment