Dermal Filler·Volume RADIESSE

What kind of volume treatment is RADIESSE?

RADIESSE® is a hybrid treatment based on calcium (CaHA) mineral, a component of bone and teeth, that simultaneously provides immediate volume formation and stimulates the body's own collagen production. Its effects are generally known to last approximately 12 to 18 months.

How Does CaHA Work?

RADIESSE consists of microspheres (CaHA) that stimulate collagen production, suspended in a firm aqueous gel (CMC).

Immediately after the procedure, this CMC aqueous gel fills in hollow spaces to create shape (volume). CMC (carboxymethylcellulose) is a very safe, biocompatible ingredient widely used in medical applications, including artificial tears prescribed in ophthalmology. It maintains its shape within the skin and is then 100% absorbed and eliminated from the body over several months.

As the aqueous gel is safely absorbed, the CaHA microspheres that remain in place stimulate surrounding cells, acting as a sturdy scaffold for new, natural collagen to grow. In other words, the immediate volume created by the gel component in the early stage of treatment is gradually and naturally replaced by real collagen volume produced by your own skin.


Does It Provide Both Immediate Volume and Collagen Stimulation?

Yes, that is the most distinctive feature of RADIESSE. While pure collagen stimulators (e.g., Sculptra) require a waiting period of several weeks to months for volume to build up, RADIESSE provides an immediate volumizing effect right after injection due to the gel component. At the same time, as the CaHA microspheres are absorbed, they stimulate natural collagen production, so the initial physical filling transitions naturally into a volume based on your own collagen. This approach is suitable for those who want both immediacy and longevity.


Is It Good for Contouring?

Yes, RADIESSE has excellent viscosity and elasticity (support), making it advantageous for firmly establishing shape and fixing contours.

It has a particular strength in contour correction of areas that require structural support over bone, such as the jawline, chin, and temples. It is also well-suited for achieving a lifting effect by firmly supporting sagging or drooping tissues. Notably, because the treatment stimulates natural collagen that integrates with surrounding tissue, the contour remains stable over time without spreading sideways.

However, because of its firm support, it is not suitable for shallow layers where the skin is very thin and needs to move softly, such as the lips or under the eyes, so precise targeting based on anatomical structure is essential.


How Long Do Results Last?

The effects of RADIESSE are generally known to last approximately 12 to 18 months, and longer durations have been reported depending on the treated area and individual factors.

Over time, the gel component that created the initial volume is absorbed, but the newly formed natural collagen densely supports the volume, allowing it to remain firm and natural for an extended period.

However, the actual duration varies depending on the treated area and depth, the patient's individual skin metabolism rate, and lifestyle habits, so it cannot be determined by a single number.


Should I Consider That RADIESSE® Cannot Be Dissolved?

Yes, this is the most important characteristic to be aware of before the procedure. The calcium (CaHA) component of RADIESSE® cannot be immediately dissolved by injecting hyaluronidase enzyme, unlike HA Filler, which can be relatively easily adjusted or reversed if needed. Once treated, you must wait for the collagen to form and the component to naturally break down, making result correction very difficult. Therefore, with RADIESSE®, it is essential to avoid over-correction and to use a conservative volume approach in the initial treatment. While it offers the significant advantage of immediate and firm volume, it has less flexibility for adjustment, so an objective diagnosis and treatment plan by a board-certified dermatologist with a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and precise control over injection depth must precede the procedure.


References

Ko Hyerim

Dermatologist · Heal House Suwon Branch

We will always be by your side, striving so that your life shines more confidently with skin full of confidence.