Review of RADIESSE dermal filler for wrinkle reduction

On December  2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Radiesse, an injectable  implant to restore or correct signs of facial lipidatrophy, or fat loss, in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).  Radiesse, a sterile, semi-solid cohesive implant consisting of synthetic calcium hydroxylapatite suspended in a gel carrier, is classified as a medical device.
 

How Does It Work?
 

As part of the normal aging process, the collagen in the skin breaks down due to UV rays exposure from the sun and exposure to environmental aggressors. This loss of collagen, the skin foundation that gives it volume, flexibility and strength results in less elasticity and reduction of skin volume. The ultimate skin condition without anti aging treatment leads to wrinkled skin, facial lines and skin laxity that take away the youthful appearance of the face.
 

One way to achieve wrinkle reduction is by replenishing lost volume i.e. increasing collagen content in the skin. The Radiesse wrinkle filler stimulates collagenesis – the production of new collagen – which results in increased volume that may last a year or more in many cases.
 

Typical Candidate for Treatment
 

Radiesse candidates are typically between 35 and 60. Radiesse usually provides up to 80 percent improvement immediately after treatment. Since Radiesse is temporary, treatments must be repeated over the years to maintain the benefit.
 

The Injection Procedure

The Radiesse procedure is performed in the doctor's office. It is most often performed with local anesthesia. Patients may experience minimal discomfort from the needle injection. Depending upon the extent of treatment, the procedure can take up to 25 minutes. Patients return home within minutes after the procedure.
The procedure involves injecting a compound of calcium hydroxyl apatite microspheres that are suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel. Calcium and phosphate ions, naturally occurring in our bodies, primarily make up the calcium hydroxyl apatite particles. The gel contains an organic compound of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, as well as glycerin and sterile water. Thin connective tissue forms around the microspheres so that the microspheres act as a filler that remains permanently implanted at the site location.
 

Recovery Time after Treatment

There may be minimal swelling, which usually subsides in 24 to 36 hours. There may also be some discomfort and bruising. The discomfort can be managed with medications. Normal activities can be resumed immediately; however, patients are advised to stay out of the sun.
 

Complications and Risks of Radiesse

A rare complication might be the appearance of nodules which would require steroid treatment or surgical intervention. Unmanageable pain or any symptoms that are progressive or abnormal should be reported to the doctor immediately. Your doctor can tell you more about possible complications and the remedies associated with each complication.
 

The Cost of Radiesse
 

The extent of the procedure may involve one or several areas of the face, and the appropriate dosage for each area may vary, making it difficult to provide a meaningful cost estimate until you are examined by a doctor.
The cost for Radiesse typically ranges from $650 to $800 per syringe.
 

Recent development

During the anti aging congress in Monte Carlo BioForm Medical Europe suggests an injectable facelift with Radiesse. Based on the vectors of aging, BioForm has developed a new injection technique that replenishes volume lost during the aging process and lifts displaced volume back to its original position. This is due to the product’s high viscosity, increased capacity to volumize, high elasticity and increased lifting capability. In addition, Radiesse stimulates natural collagen growth which anchors the tissue for a long-term effect lasting up to one year.

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