Tissue Fillers: Juvéderm and Radiesse

Our skin contains collagen and elastin fibers which create the smooth and “plump” appearance we see in youthful skin. Another naturally occurring component of our skin is hyaluronic acid.   Hyaluronic acid binds water molecules and is critical in creating the fullness and texture of healthy skin.  With aging and cumulative sun exposure these components begin to deteriorate resulting in skin that tends to sag and appear coarse.

Juvederm and Restylane are composed of hyaluronic acid and are injected into creases and lines to instantly fill the area. They are  the first choice for creating fuller lips and diminishing the vertical “smokers” lines and are most commonly used to minimize the lines around the mouth.

Radiesse is used in areas of the face that require more volume such as the pre-jowl sulcus (see photographs below) and more pronounced nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Radiesse is very effective in volumizing areas of the face that tend ‘deflate’ during the aging process.  Radiesse is ideal for re-creating the “apple cheek” which helps to minimize lines under the eyes (tear trough) creating a more youthful appearance.  Radiesse is comprised of a biodegradable, biocompatible substace called calcium hydroxylapatite and has also been safely used in dental, orthopedic and in vocal cord procedures.

Both Radiesse and hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Restylane) are commonly used to fill creases and folds around the mouth but because of Radiesse’s greater density it is a better choice for filling a deeper wrinkle. These two different substances are often used together to achieve the desired effect. An analogy between these two products would be to think of Radiesse as the soft spongy ‘cake’ used to create structure and foundation and Juvederm as the icing to smooth and fill fine cracks.

These fillers, unlike collagen, are non-animal based and thus requires no allergy testing and carry no risk for infectious disease transfer.

The procedure is simple and is performed in the office. The patient is given several injections of an anesthetic, similar to that given by a dentist. This creates a painless procedure. Most common side effect is bruising which typically resolves by 4 to 7 days.

For more information please contact us by email or phone at 757-838-8030