Lumpy or Uneven Appearance

Radiesse, a dermal filler made from calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a gel, can offer noticeable volume restoration and facial contouring benefits. However, like any medical procedure, it comes with potential side effects.

Some individuals may experience temporary side effects following Radiesse injections, including:

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Pain or tenderness at the injection site

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Redness or swelling

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Bruising

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Itching

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Numbness

Less common, but more concerning side effects that can occur include:

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Lumpy or uneven appearance.

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Infection

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Vascular occlusion (blockage of blood vessels)

Let’s delve deeper into the issue of lumpy or uneven appearance with Radiesse.

1. Cause:

   Lumps or bumps can form if the Radiesse is not evenly distributed during injection, or if it clumps together.

2. Factors Influencing Occurrence:

   • Experience of the injector:

   A skilled and experienced injector is crucial for proper product placement and technique, minimizing the risk of lumps.

   • Skin thickness and elasticity:

   Thicker or less elastic skin may be more prone to lump formation.

   • Amount of filler used:

   Injecting too much filler in one area can increase the likelihood of lumps.

3. Duration and Resolution:

   Lumps typically subside within a few weeks to months as the body gradually reabsorbs the Radiesse.

4. Treatment Options:

   If lumps persist, the injector may massage the area or use hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid-based fillers (though not effective for calcium hydroxylapatite like Radiesse), to help dissolve the filler and even out the appearance.

It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of any dermal filler treatment, including Radiesse. Discuss your concerns and desired outcomes with a qualified and experienced injector to make an informed decision.

Infections and Allergic Reactions

Radiesse, a dermal filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a gel carrier, is generally safe and effective for smoothing wrinkles, adding volume to cheeks, and contouring the jawline. However, like any medical procedure, it carries potential side effects.

Here’s a breakdown of possible downsides:

**Potential Side Effects:**

• Pain and Discomfort: Some patients experience mild to moderate pain at the injection site, which can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Redness and Swelling: These are common side effects that typically subside within a few days. Applying cool compresses can help reduce swelling.
• Bruising: Minor bruising at the injection site is also possible, but usually disappears within 1-2 weeks.
• Lumps and Bumps: If the filler is not evenly distributed, it may cause small lumps or bumps that can be massaged to smooth out over time. In some cases, a touch-up injection may be needed.
• Infection: As with any procedure involving needles, there is a slight risk of infection at the injection site. This risk can be minimized by choosing a qualified injector who uses sterile techniques.

**Allergic Reactions:**

Although rare, allergic reactions to Radiesse are possible. These can range from mild symptoms like itching and redness to more severe reactions such as swelling of the face or throat. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

**Important Notes:**

• It’s crucial to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any dermal filler treatment. They will assess your individual needs and medical history to determine if Radiesse is suitable for you and discuss potential risks and benefits.
• Follow your injector’s post-treatment instructions carefully to minimize side effects and promote healing.

Long-Term Considerations

Loss of Volume Over Time

Long-term considerations with any dermal filler, including Radiesse, involve understanding how the product degrades over time and its potential impact on your skin.

Radiesse is unique in that it’s composed of calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a gel carrier. These microspheres are gradually absorbed by the body over time, typically lasting for around 12-18 months. While this provides longer-lasting results compared to some hyaluronic acid fillers, it also means that volume reduction is a natural and expected part of the process.

The loss of volume can lead to subtle changes in facial contours. As the filler degrades, wrinkles may become more prominent, lines may reappear, or the overall fullness achieved initially may diminish.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s body processes fillers differently, so individual results can vary significantly. Factors like age, skin elasticity, lifestyle, and sun exposure can all influence how long Radiesse lasts and how volume is lost over time.

For some individuals, this gradual volume loss may not be noticeable or bothersome. However, others might prefer to maintain a more youthful appearance and opt for touch-up injections every year or so to replenish the lost volume.

Need for Repeat Treatments

Long-term considerations regarding Radiesse fillers include the fact that, unlike some other dermal fillers, it does not dissolve naturally over time.

While this can be advantageous for longer-lasting results, it also means that any potential issues or unwanted outcomes may persist for a longer period.

Here are some key points to consider:

• Lumps and bumps:

Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a gel. Over time, these microspheres can clump together, leading to visible lumps or bumps under the skin. While this is usually temporary, it can be persistent for some individuals.

• Migration:

Radiesse may migrate from its original injection site, causing unevenness or unwanted volume in unintended areas.

• Need for Repeat Treatments:

The results of Radiesse typically last between 12 to 18 months. After this period, touch-up injections are required to maintain the desired results.

It’s essential to have realistic expectations about the longevity of Radiesse and be prepared for the possibility of repeat treatments.

Important Factors to Discuss with Your Doctor

Medical History and Underlying Conditions

Discussing your medical history and underlying conditions with your doctor before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, including Radiesse injections, is crucial for ensuring a safe and effective treatment.

Here are some important factors to bring up during your consultation:

Allergies:** Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, particularly to medications, latex, or anesthetic agents. This information will help them choose appropriate products and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.