Radiesse by Merz Aesthetics is an FDA-approved CaHA filler that is used to soften and minimize nasolabial folds and improve the contours of the jawline. This injectable filler works by stimulating natural collagen production in the skin, restoring lost volume and achieving softening or filling effects that last approximately 6 months to 1 year or more. Nearly all FDA-approved fillers are considered temporary, and each one is used on certain parts of the face, such as the cheeks, nasolabial folds, nose and chin. All of these fillers are popular because of their ability to restore lost volume and how safe they are.
The results are temporary and last between 1 and 3 years. Dr. Larry Fan is a board-certified, Harvard-educated plastic surgeon in San Francisco, CA who is renowned for creating beautiful, stunning and natural results. He has successfully performed more than 10,000 cosmetic procedures on the face, breasts and body over a period of 20 years and has been a guest speaker at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons.
He has also appeared on national media outlets such as CNN, NBC and ABC. Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be the most temporary option and are therefore often recommended to patients who are getting a filler for the first time. They will usually last 6 to 18 months. Injections into the lips will wear out a little faster than those applied to the nasolabial folds.
Certain hyaluronic acid fillers, such as VOLUMA, are formulated to last longer, but are typically limited to certain areas, such as the cheeks. In addition to hyaluronic acid fillers, there are other non-hyaluronic fillers available on the market today. Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible substance that is used in dermal fillers to replace lost volume and help smooth wrinkles, plump lips and restore a more youthful appearance. It is known to produce a very natural result with rare side effects.
PMMA is another synthetic substance that is used in dermal fillers and can provide a slightly better structure than poly-L-lactic acid. Radiesse is a dermal filler made of calcium hydroxyapatite that usually lasts 12 months for most patients. When choosing a dermal filler product, it's important to get to know the hyaluronic acid filler product line for each brand and get an idea of how some of these fillers will best suit your needs. Softer fillers are used on the lips, for example, while more resistant fillers may be desired to enhance the cheekbones.
It's also important to consult with an experienced cosmetic surgeon who can help you determine which type of dermal filler is best for you.
