Share:
I had a patient ask me this morning, “Is Radiesse a filler.. or what’s the difference?!” This is a question we are frequently asked, as well as what the difference is between Radiesse and Sculptra.
First, it’s important to note that Radiesse, Sculptra, and fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, etc.) are all used to add volume and smooth wrinkles, and they are all technically “fillers” (though Radiesse and Sculptra are more commonly known as biostimulators), and have minimal to no downtime. Where they differ is in their active ingredients, mechanism of action, longevity, and where they are used. Let’s dive deeper into each one.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
The active ingredient in fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane is Hyaluronic acid- which is a natural occurring substance in the body that attracts water. By doing so, when injected, it adds immediate volume by attracting water molecules to the area- filling in those unwanted wrinkles. However, HA fillers do not stimulate collagen production to the extent that Radiesse does. HA fillers typically last around 6-18 months (varies by each individual patient of course, and the area that is being treated), and are usually used in the cheeks, undereye hollows, nasolabial folds, chin, marionette lines, and back of hands. One big benefit to HA fillers is that they are reversible/can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if need be.
Radiesse
A big perk to Radiesse that differs from HA fillers, is that it stimulates collagen production which leads to longer-lasting results and a more natural look. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is the active ingredient in Radiesse, which is also a naturally occurring substance in the body. The CaHA is suspended in a gel carrier – which provides immediate improvement once injected and proceeds to stimulate fibroblasts (specialized cells that produce proteins for the extracellular matrix, which supports the body’s tissues) to create collagen for up to one year, and elastin for up to 9 months. Thus, Radiesse works immediately to smooth wrinkles, and provides a longer-term boost from the stimulation of collagen and elastin. It’s uses are plenty from facial contouring in the cheeks and jawline; to hand, knee, neck, and chest rejuvenation… and is even sometimes used on the bum! Do note, that Radiesse cannot be reversed with hyaluronidase.
Sculptra
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is the active ingredient in Radiesse. Similar to Radiesse, Sculptra helps to stimulate collagen production for a natural-looking volume increase. It differs from Radiesse in that results are not immediate and typically appear over months time and typically last 12-24 months. The rule of thumb for Sculptra is “1 vial per decade of age” spaced every 4-6 weeks, compared to Radiesse where the number is vials is based on the individual and which area they want treated.
Conclusion
There is a lot to consider between HA fillers, Radiesse, and Sculptra- which is why it is important to understand how each one works. At Whitefish Creative Aesthetics, we take the time to meet with each individual patient to listen, assess, and discuss all options to determine which is the best fit. Book a consult today.. we’d love to see you!