Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a component of our natural connective tissue underneath the skin. Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxyapatite micronized granules which can be thought of as a synthetic grounded up bone structure. Longevity for HA fillers is 4-9 months for Restylane or Juvederm, 6-10 months for perlane. Longevity for Radiesse is typically 9-18 months. Evolence is a purified porcine collagen which has virtually zero allergenicity in clinical setting and lasts 6-12 months.
The advantage of HA fillers is relatively cheaper pricing and is reversible with hyaluronidase if needed. The disadvantage of HA fillers is their associated temporary swelling due to HAs' humectant (water-drawing) property and relatively rapid degradation.
The advantage of Radiesse is its longer longevity, ability to provide greater structural support such as in its application in cheek augmentation or eyebrow lift. The disadvantage of Radiesse is greater risk of bruising, swelling and its unforgiving nature and persistency in the hands of less than experienced clinical injectors.
The advantage of Evolence is minimal risk of swelling and bruising. The disadvantage of Evolence is the occasional bumps which can be minimized by vigorous massaging after each injection by an experienced board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
