Radiesse
Radiesse is an FDA-approved dermal filler primarily used for facial contouring, wrinkle reduction, and hand rejuvenation. However, it has also gained popularity for body tightening due to its ability to stimulate collagen production. Radiesse is particularly effective for improving skin texture, firmness, and elasticity in areas prone to sagging or laxity, such as the arms, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and knees.
It is is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. These microspheres provide immediate volume and lift to the treated area, helping to smooth and tighten the skin. The CaHA microspheres also act as a biostimulatory agent, encouraging the body to produce new collagen and elastin over time.
Radiesse is effective for tightening and improving skin quality in multiple areas, including:
• Arms: Reduces the appearance of sagging or "crepey" skin, particularly on the upper arms.
• Abdomen: Firms and smooths loose skin, often following weight loss or pregnancy.
• Thighs and Buttocks: Improves skin texture and tightens areas prone to cellulite or laxity.
• Knees: Addresses sagging skin above the knees for a more youthful appearance.
Benefits:
Immediate Results with Long-Term Benefits
Radiesse provides immediate lifting and volumizing effects upon injection, making the skin look firmer right away. The ongoing collagen stimulation offers gradual, long-term improvement, creating a dual benefit of instant results and sustained tightening.
Minimally Invasive Procedure
The treatment is minimally invasive, involving only small injections without the need for surgery or significant downtime. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Improved Skin Quality
Beyond tightening, Radiesse enhances overall skin quality by increasing hydration and elasticity. The stimulated collagen production helps to thicken the dermis, reducing the appearance of crepey skin and improving skin texture.
Safe and Biocompatible
Radiesse is made of materials that are naturally found in the body, making it highly biocompatible with minimal risk of allergic reactions or complications.
How does it work?
Injection into Target Areas
During the procedure, Radiesse is injected into the skin’s deeper layers using a fine needle or cannula. The product is strategically placed in areas where skin laxity or sagging is most pronounced. The injected filler provides an immediate scaffolding effect, giving the skin a firmer and more lifted appearance.
Collagen and Elastin Stimulation
Once injected, the CaHA microspheres stimulate fibroblasts in the skin to produce new collagen and elastin. This process of neocollagenesis gradually strengthens and tightens the skin from within. Over time, the gel carrier is absorbed by the body, but the newly produced collagen remains, providing long-lasting results. The increased collagen levels help to restore skin elasticity, improve texture, and create a firmer, more youthful appearance.
Long-Term Effects and Biodegradation
As Radiesse is biodegradable, it is naturally broken down and absorbed by the body over several months. However, the collagen produced as a result of the treatment provides continued tightening and lifting effects for up to 12 to 18 months or longer, depending on the individual’s skin condition and age.
Radiesse is suitable for individuals who wish to improve skin quality, firmness, and texture without undergoing surgery.
Initial Treatment: Most patients require 1 to 2 sessions of Radiesse, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the extent of skin laxity and the desired outcome.
Maintenance Treatments: To maintain the results, follow-up treatments are generally recommended every 12 to 18 months. The exact interval may vary depending on the individual’s skin condition, aging process, and lifestyle factors.