Non-Surgical Facial Enhancement Using Radiesse®
When you want structure—not puff—Radiesse® (calcium hydroxylapatite, CaHA) is a workhorse. It adds immediate support in deeper planes and
stimulates your own collagen over time. Used thoughtfully, it sharpens lines where they matter and softens shadows where they don’t.
By Dr. Tim Neavin • Updated
What Radiesse Is (and How It Works)
Radiesse is a gel carrier with tiny CaHA microspheres. You see **immediate structural support** from the gel; over weeks, CaHA encourages **neocollagenesis** for a longer-lived result. It is not a lip plumper and it cannot be dissolved on demand like hyaluronic acid (HA).
Where Radiesse Shines
- Jawline & pre-jowl: Smooths the mandibular line and disguises small dips without bulk.
- Chin support: Subtle projection/length to balance the profile.
- Lateral cheek / zygoma: Defines the arch and improves midface lift (deep plane).
- Marionette fold base: Structural buttress so corners don’t “collapse.”
- Hands: Masks tendon/vein show with a natural feel when placed correctly.
New to injectables? Start with our injectables overview.
Hyperdilute Radiesse for Skin Quality
When **diluted** and placed superficially in the correct plane, CaHA can improve **crepey skin and fine texture** in areas like the lower face, neck, and chest. Expect a series of 2–3 sessions ~4–6 weeks apart, with results building over months.
When HA May Be Better
- Lips & perioral lines (mobile, expressive zones)
- Tear trough/lid–cheek junction (precision + reversibility valued)
- Trial shaping when you want the option to dissolve
For how I stage structural work by region, see Top-to-Bottom Facial Analysis for Fillers.
Treatment Plan & Technique (What It Feels Like)
- Mapping: We mark vectors (jawline, chin, zygoma) and identify “no-go” zones.
- Plane & tool: Deep periosteal/juxtaperiosteal support with needle or cannula; tiny aliquots placed slowly.
- Comfort: Topical or local anesthetic; Radiesse often mixed with lidocaine.
- Time: Focused sessions are brief; photos and planning take longer than placement.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate support from the carrier gel; **collagen** effect develops over 6–12 weeks.
- Duration: Often **12–18 months** in structural zones; hands similar. Hyperdilute protocols build gradually with series, then maintenance.
- Review: 2–4 week check for photos and subtle top-ups if needed.
Safety & What to Avoid
- Not dissolvable: CaHA can’t be reversed like HA. We bias precision and conservative dosing.
- High-risk sites: Avoid nose, glabella, and superficial periorbital work with CaHA.
- Nodules/irregularity: Rare with correct plane and micro-aliquots; massage instructions provided.
- Vascular safety: Slow injection, proper planes, and readiness protocols reduce risk.
- Imaging note: CaHA is radiopaque and may be visible on scans—helpful for physicians to know.
FAQ
Can Radiesse be dissolved if I don’t like it?
No. That’s why we plan conservatively, choose the right plane, and sometimes stage. If reversibility is essential, HA is preferred.
Will I look “filled”?
Used deep and in small amounts, Radiesse changes structure, not surface bulk. The goal is clean light and shadow, not volume for its own sake.
How soon can I work out?
Light activity same day; wait 24–48 hours for heavy workouts to limit swelling/bruise risk.
Next step: If you want a sharper jawline or better support without surgery, we’ll map a conservative CaHA plan—or choose HA where reversibility matters.
Board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast, face, and body procedures.
