If you want to look more youthful but don’t want to undergo cosmetic surgery, an in-office treatment called Radiesse® may be for you.
Radiesse® is a volumizing implant filler used for shaping and contouring. These injections are typically used to smooth lines in the nasolabial folds and wrinkles at the corners of the mouth. Other common uses include filling in some acne scars and other facial recession. Our office also uses Radiesse® to restore volume in the cheeks, non-surgical nose reshaping, chin augmentation and to correct asymmetrical features.
How Long Does This Filler Last?
Radiesse® provides immediate, long-lasting results that keep your face looking youthful for as long as two years, not months, as is the case with other injectable fillers.
Made with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), Radiesse® encourages collagen growth, which prolongs your results. Lasting results depend on the area treated, the amount of product used, the severity of the problem, and genetic predispositions. It requires no allergy testing before treatment.
How Long Does Treatment Take and What is Involved?
Treatment in our Manhattan office is quick, taking only 15 to 40 minutes for the entire procedure. For your own comfort, you can request a local or topical anesthetic before the filler is injected under the skin via a fine needle. Usually one to two treatments with our cosmetic surgeonare needed depending upon the level of correction you desire.
No further treatment is required until the effects of the treatment wear off, at which time you can elect to have a follow-up Radiesse® treatment.
Risks and Side Effects of Your Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatment
Like any cosmetic procedure, Radiesse® involves some risks. You may experience mild tenderness, bruising or swelling that will be short-lived. Rare side effects include infection or allergic reaction. Other complications can include development of nodules, temporary headache and temporary nausea. There is no downtime with Radiesse® treatment, allowing you to return to work and normal activities immediately.
Preparing for Treatment
Robert M. Schwarcz, MD, FACS, will ask you to discontinue certain prescription and over-the-counter medications prior to treatment. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, gingko biloba, garlic, flax oil, cod liver oil and supplements with essential fatty acids at least one week before treatment.
Retin-A may be discontinued two days before treatment and two days afterward.
If you have a history of cold sores, you must receive Valtrex 500mg twice a day or Zovirax 400mg three times per day to minimize cold sore flare ups. If you develop a cold sore prior to your appointment, you must reschedule. To discuss your goals and learn more about the ease of Radiesse Treatments, contact our Manhattan or Scarsdale office today.