Radiesse effect,

does it really create collagen?

I'm Clinic Director Wi Young-jin from Beautys Doctor.

Check this before reading

Q. Isn't Radiesse just a filler that adds volume?

A. It does add volume, but

the key is calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA)

particles inducing collagen production

in the 'dual effect.'

Q. Isn't the claim that it makes collagen

just marketing?

A. It is a mechanism backed by evidence,

with actual new collagen confirmed in histological studies.

Key points of this article

It is true that Radiesse creates collagen

—How calcium hydroxyapatite works

What is Radiesse?

Radiesse is

a collagen-stimulating filler with micro-particles of calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA)

dispersed in a CMC gel carrier.

It is a collagen-stimulating filler.

Unlike ordinary HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers

that focus on 'adding volume,'

Radiesse is designed with the goal of

'filling while simultaneously

changing the skin itself.'

The real principle behind

how calcium hydroxyapatite creates collagen

This is the part many people misunderstand,

because when you say 'it makes collagen,'

it sounds a bit exaggerated, right?

The main ingredient in Radiesse,

calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA),

is also found in our bones and teeth.

In other words, it is biocompatible.

When these CaHA microparticles enter the dermis

they begin stimulating fibroblasts

in the surrounding tissue.

Fibroblasts are cells like a 'factory' that makes collagen,

and the CaHA particles

send that factory a 'work order.'

To be honest, this process is a bit slow.

Right after injection, the gel carrier provides volume,

and meanwhile around the CaHA particles

new collagen gradually forms.

Over time, the gel is absorbed and

the CaHA particles are also broken down,

but the newly formed collagen remains in place.

That is the essence of the Radiesse effect.

The reason the effect lasts even after the filler is gone

is precisely this collagen retention effect.

CaHA particles are tiny bead-like particles with a diameter of 25~45μm

in size.

These particles, within the dermis,

act as a kind of 'scaffold'

that encourages collagen to build up on top of them.

When constructing a building, you first set up the rebar

and then pour concrete on top,

CaHA plays the role of the rebar,

and collagen becomes the concrete.

It is not simply filling empty space,

but a method that draws out the tissue's own regenerative power.

Director Wi Young-jin's key summary

Right after injection, the gel holds the volume,

and over weeks to months

the CaHA particles induce collagen production.

Even after the filler ingredients are broken down,

new collagen remains,

so the duration of effect is relatively long.

'Filling + regeneration'

is the structure at work simultaneously.

Radiesse vs HA filler vs Sculptra comparison

There is one important thing I have to mention about Radiesse:

it cannot be dissolved like HA filler.

If the result with hyaluronic acid filler is not to your liking,

it can be dissolved with hyaluronidase,

but that is not possible with Radiesse.

That is why the injector's anatomical understanding

and control of the injection amount are much more important.

If too much is injected without enough experience,

it is difficult to correct.

That said, because of this,

if you leave it to experienced medical staff,

you can expect more precise and longer-lasting results.

Who does the Radiesse effect work best for?

1. People who want volume and elasticity at the same time

If you feel like you've lost cheek volume and the skin has started to sag as well,

Radiesse can be effective.

2. People who want fewer procedures

Among those who used to repeat HA filler every 6 months,

many say they switched to Radiesse and

their maintenance period got longer.

3. Areas with thin skin such as the backs of the hands and forearms

Recently, Radiesse has also been diluted

and injected thinly over a wide area

using a 'hyperdilution' technique

to improve skin texture.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. Do you bruise a lot after Radiesse?

It depends on the injection site, but

it is similar to ordinary fillers.

Using a cannula

can significantly reduce bruising.

Q2. How much does it cost, and how many sessions are needed?

The unit price is higher than HA filler, but because the duration is longer,

if you look at the total cost over a one-year period,

the difference may not be large.

Usually, most people are satisfied with 1~2 sessions.

Q3. I heard nodules (lumps) can form?

They can occur if too much is injected or if it is placed too superficially.

It should not be used in areas where the skin is very thin,

such as the lips or tear troughs.

That is the rule.

KakaoTalk consultation before your visit is also available.

This has been Wi Young-jin.

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