Ever look in the mirror and think, “Wait, when did that happen?” Maybe your cheeks don’t seem as full as they used to, or those lines around your mouth are sticking around a little longer. Even your hands are starting to show signs of time. It’s completely normal; we all go through it. But that doesn’t mean you have to just accept it.
If you’re noticing things like volume loss, deeper smile lines, or sagging skin and you’re looking for something that actually works (without going under the knife) Radiesse® could be the answer. At DSC Laser & Skin Care Center in San Gabriel, CA, we offer Radiesse treatments designed to do more than just cover things up. They help your skin naturally rebuild and renew.
This isn’t about trying to look 20 again. It’s about feeling good in your skin, restoring what’s already beautiful, and doing it in a way that still feels like you.
What Is Radiesse and How Does It Work?
Radiesse is a calcium-based dermal filler that adds immediate volume and triggers your body to produce new collagen. It’s used in the face and back of the hand to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, especially in areas like the nasolabial folds and marionette lines. The results look natural, feel smooth, and develop further over time as collagen production kicks in.
Approved by the FDA, this injectable offers more than a temporary fix. Radiesse actively stimulates tissue remodeling for structure and skin quality that lasts.
Composition: Calcium Hydroxyapatite in a Smooth Gel
Radiesse is made up of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a water-based gel. These microspheres are similar to minerals naturally found in your bones, so your body accepts them easily. The gel immediately fills hollow areas while the CaHA particles create a framework for your body to start building collagen.
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which are mostly used to hydrate or plump, Radiesse is a volumizing filler used for structure and lift. It’s FDA-approved for use in the face and hands, and is often chosen for patients looking to correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds without an overfilled look.
| Ingredient | Function | Benefit |
| CaHA Microspheres | Stimulates collagen | Long-lasting volume and firmness |
| Water-based Gel | Provides initial lift | Immediate contouring |
| Lidocaine (optional) | Local anesthetic | Reduces injection discomfort |
This unique combination makes Radiesse both a filler and collagen stimulator, offering more than just short-term results.
Immediate Results and Long-Term Collagen Support
Right after your Radiesse injection, you’ll notice an improvement in the appearance of the skin, especially around the wrinkles and folds that were bothering you. But that’s just the beginning.
As your body absorbs the gel over time, the calcium-based microspheres stay behind and stimulate natural collagen production in the treatment area. This leads to smoother, firmer skin and a noticeable lift in the treated area. Think of it like scaffolding for your skin to rebuild itself subtly, gradually, and beautifully.
This dual-action effect is what makes Radiesse different from other filler options available. It doesn’t just fill; it renews.
FDA-Approved and Clinically Proven to Last
Radiesse is FDA-approved for the treatment of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, including nasolabial folds and marionette lines, as well as for volume loss in the back of the hand. Clinical studies have shown that Radiesse injections can last up to 18 months, sometimes even longer, depending on where it’s injected and how your body responds.
What patients love most is the immediate lift, followed by a gradual but noticeable improvement in skin quality as their body produces more collagen. You get both quick results and long-term benefits, making it one of the most cost-effective dermal fillers in cosmetic dermatology today.
Of course, not all fillers are created equal. Many clients come to DSC asking how Radiesse compares to Juvederm or Sculptra. The answer lies in your goals. If you’re looking for volume, lift, and collagen stimulation, Radiesse is the dermal filler used by top injectors for structural rejuvenation; and one we trust here at DSC.
Sculpt & Restore: Key Benefits of Radiesse
So what makes Radiesse such a standout option when it comes to non-surgical rejuvenation? Let’s break down some of its most impressive benefits starting with the instant lift you’ll love.
Instant Lift and Facial Contouring
If you’re looking for immediate results, Radiesse delivers. After injection, the gel component fills hollows and restores lost volume, giving the skin a natural lift. This is especially beneficial for treating nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and cheek hollowness, where sagging can give the face a tired or drooping appearance.
At DSC Laser & Skin Care Center, we commonly use Radiesse to enhance facial contours, including the jawline, cheeks, and chin, giving patients a more sculpted profile without surgery. The treatment requires little downtime, and results are visible shortly after treatment, making it a favorite among patients seeking fast yet natural rejuvenation.
This filler is particularly helpful for patients not quite ready for surgical lifts, but still looking for visible tightening and definition.
Natural Rejuvenation Through Collagen Production
What sets Radiesse apart from most facial fillers is its ability to stimulate the production of collagen. Once the gel carrier is absorbed, the calcium-based microspheres remain, triggering the skin to generate new collagen in the treated area. This helps improve skin firmness, texture, and elasticity over time.
This means your skin doesn’t just appear better; it actually becomes healthier and stronger. By addressing the deeper structural issues caused by collagen loss, Radiesse provides a foundation for long-lasting facial rejuvenation that evolves over several months. This process improves the appearance of the skin naturally, without looking stiff or overfilled.
You can expect more than just surface-level improvement. Your skin quality improves at the cellular level.
Versatile Use for Face and Hands
Radiesse is not just limited to the face. It’s one of the few FDA-approved fillers for restoring volume to the back of the hand; an area that often shows signs of aging even before the face does. With time, hands lose fat, and tendons and veins become more visible. Radiesse treatment for hands helps smooth these contours and restore youthful fullness.
On the face, it works well in areas where deep folds, creases, or volume loss are present. This includes:
- Nasolabial folds (laugh lines)
- Marionette lines
- Cheeks
- Jawline
- Chin
- Temples
By treating multiple zones, Radiesse injectables can rebuild facial balance and deliver a more cohesive, youthful appearance.
Who Should Get Radiesse and When It Might Not Be the Best Option
Before deciding if Radiesse is the right choice for you, it helps to understand the specific concerns it treats and the situations where it may not be recommended.
Common Concerns That Radiesse Treats
Radiesse is ideal for adults aged 35 to 60 who are experiencing moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. It’s also effective for those who want to correct volume loss or boost their skin’s firmness through collagen regeneration. Common patient concerns include:
- Deep smile lines or folds
- Sagging jawline
- Hollow cheeks or temples
- Wrinkled hands
- Skin laxity due to collagen loss
Because Radiesse works by building up collagen, it’s best for patients with reasonable skin elasticity and realistic expectations about the gradual improvement that occurs after injection.
Contraindications and Safety Precautions
Although Radiesse is considered safe, it’s not appropriate for everyone. You should not receive Radiesse injections if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Prone to keloid or raised scars
- Allergic to any of the components, including lidocaine
- Dealing with active skin infections in the treatment area
- Diagnosed with a bleeding disorder
Patients should also inform their provider if they are taking blood thinners, as this increases the risk of bruising and local side effects.
Additionally, Radiesse should never be injected into a blood vessel. Doing so can lead to serious adverse events, including stroke, vision abnormalities, or tissue damage. Always choose a provider trained in cosmetic dermatology and facial anatomy.
For full safety information, refer to the FDA-approved documentation: Radiesse Full Prescribing Info.
Why Expertise Matters
Because CaHA microspheres are radiopaque, they can show up on imaging like CT scans or MRIs. It’s important to notify any radiologist or surgeon if you’ve had Radiesse treatment. This is another reason why your injections should only be performed by qualified professionals familiar with proper depth of the injection and long-term outcomes.
At DSC, we ensure every injector is certified, experienced, and medically trained, offering you both aesthetic skill and clinical safety.
Why DSC Laser & Skincare Center Is the Smart Choice
Choosing the right provider is just as important as choosing the right treatment. Here’s what sets DSC Laser & Skincare Center apart from the rest.
Customized, 3D Treatment Planning
Our approach at DSC is rooted in holistic, multi-dimensional treatment planning. We don’t just look at one wrinkle. We look at your facial structure as a whole (your bone, muscle, skin, and fat) and how they work together to support your natural beauty. Every Radiesse treatment is customized to enhance and not change your entire features.
This philosophy ensures balanced results that reflect who you are, not someone else’s ideal.
Trusted Leader in Anti-Aging and Skin Repair
DSC has been a trusted provider of cosmetic and dermatologic care for over a decade. We integrate scientific protocols and new technology that improve healing times, reduce risks, and optimize skin regeneration after procedures.
We continue to lead in non-surgical facial rejuvenation, offering not just injectables, but laser, RF microneedling, and other treatments that complement and enhance Radiesse’s results.
Rooted in San Gabriel for Over 12 Years
We proudly serve the San Gabriel Valley community, and many of our patients have been with us for years. Our center is known not just for its treatments, but for the relationships we build. Our staff is here to guide you every step of the way; with honesty, precision, and care.
The Radiesse Treatment Journey at DSC
Wondering what the treatment process actually looks like? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect when you choose Radiesse at DSC.
Step 1: Consultation and Planning
Every journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. We assess your skin condition, volume loss, facial structure, and medical history. If you’re on medications like aspirin or blood thinners, we may advise you to stop them temporarily before the procedure.
We also review your goals, whether it’s lifting your lower face, reducing smile lines, or rejuvenating your hands. You’ll know what to expect from treatment before you start.
Step 2: Injection Day Experience
On the day of your Radiesse injections, we’ll apply a topical numbing cream or use Radiesse with lidocaine for comfort. The injection process typically takes about 30 minutes. Using ultra-fine needles or cannulas, our trained specialists place the filler at the correct depth of the injection to avoid complications and maximize lift.
Patients often say the experience is fast and relatively painless. You can go home immediately after.
Step 3: Aftercare and Follow-Up
After your treatment, you may notice redness, swelling, or bruising at the site of injection. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days. In rare cases, temporary scabs or small nodules may appear. If so, let your provider know right away.
We schedule follow-up visits to monitor your results and determine if any additional touch-ups are needed. Most patients feel confident returning to their regular activities shortly after treatment.
Safety First: Side Effects and Warnings
Like any cosmetic procedure, Radiesse comes with potential side effects. Understanding what’s normal and what’s not can help you feel more confident and prepared before treatment.
Common Side Effects
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Tenderness
- Itching
These usually occur at the site of injection and resolve on their own in 3–7 days. Applying cold compresses and avoiding strenuous activity helps reduce symptoms.
Rare but Serious Risks
Though uncommon, serious side effects have been reported. These include:
- Injection into a blood vessel, causing skin necrosis, blindness, or stroke
- Allergic reactions
- Formation of hard nodules or lumps
- Loss of sensation or facial drooping
This is why choosing a licensed medical provider is non-negotiable.
Safety Measures at DSC
We follow medical-grade sterilization, use anatomically safe injection techniques, and educate you thoroughly before and after treatment. Patient safety is the foundation of our practice.
Longevity and Maintenance
Radiesse is not just about instant results. Here’s what you can expect in terms of how long it lasts and how to maintain your refreshed look over time.
How Long Radiesse Lasts
Most patients see results for 12 to 18 months, and some report improvement for up to two years, especially when Radiesse is used in areas with low movement like the jawline or hands.
How to Make Your Results Last
To extend the life of your results:
- Avoid smoking
- Use sunscreen daily
- Follow a medical-grade skincare routine
- Consider combining Radiesse with microneedling or peel treatments
Healthy skin retains volume longer.
Ongoing Care at DSC
We recommend maintenance treatments every 12 to 18 months. As collagen continues to rebuild, many patients require less product with each touch-up.
Radiesse vs Other Fillers
With so many dermal fillers available today, it’s important to understand how Radiesse stacks up against other popular options. Here’s how it compares to some of the most commonly used injectables.
Compared to Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Unlike Juvederm or Restylane, which rely solely on hyaluronic acid, Radiesse creates a scaffold for collagen. That means you get long-lasting effects and better skin quality over time. It’s not ideal for the volume of the lips, but it works beautifully in areas that need lift and definition.
Compared to Sculptra
Sculptra and Radiesse both stimulate collagen, but Sculptra takes longer to show results. Radiesse offers instant volume and tends to require fewer sessions to achieve the desired effect.
FAQs
1. What areas can Radiesse treat?
Radiesse is used in the face, jawline, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and back of the hand. It should not be used in the lips, around the eyes, or for superficial wrinkles.
2. Is the Radiesse procedure painful?
Mild discomfort is common. We use lidocaine and topical anesthetics to reduce pain during the injection process.
3. How much does a Radiesse Injection cost?
Pricing varies based on the amount used and treatment area. Contact our clinic for package options or financing availability.
4. What should I avoid after the Radiesse procedure?
Avoid alcohol, strenuous activity, and touching the treatment area for at least 24 hours. Don’t get a chemical peel or facial for one week after.
Conclusion: Radiesse Filler at DSC Laser and Skin Care Center
Radiesse is more than just a dermal filler. It’s a scientifically supported, clinically safe way to rebuild lost volume, soften wrinkles and folds, and revitalize your skin’s natural structure. At DSC Laser & Skin Care Center, we combine expert technique with personalized care to give you results that look great now and age well later.
If you’re looking for facial fillers that work with your skin, not against it, let’s talk. Schedule a consultation today and discover how Radiesse can help you look refreshed, confident, and entirely like yourself; just more rested.
