Radiesse (also known as Radiance) is a popular long-lasting dermal filler. A dermal filler is a substance that is injected deep into or under the skin to erase wrinkles and deep lines. Radiesse can also be used to augment or fill-out areas such as cheekbones, the nose, and even the hands. Radiesse is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite gel. This substance is derived from natural materials and is very long-lasting. It is gradually converted in the body to collagen, which accounts for the durability of its effects. It lasts an average of 18 months, which is significantly longer than hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane.
With Radiesse, amazing changes can be achieved in the fight against aging. The smile lines around the mouth that get deeper with age can be completely smoothed out. A saddle deformity in the nose can be straightened without surgery. The hollowed areas that occur in the hands with more advanced aging can even be filled in, giving the hands the smooth texture of youth. Unlike Juvederm, Radiesse is not generally used in the lips due to the risk of nodule formation that might be visible under the thin skin of the lips. This is not typically a problem in other areas.
Radiesse is not the only long-lasting dermal filler. Artefill is another long-lasting dermal filler. Artefill is made of methyl-methacrylate microspheres and so is a permanent material. This has its own advantages and disadvantages. A permanent filler is not a good choice for a novice or first-time user of injectable fillers. Once in the skin, the microspheres cannot be removed without surgery. In select patients, however, this may be a good choice.
