Radiesse is an excellent injectable implant for the naso-labial furrows and for the corners of the mouth and we use it frequently. However we do not use Radiesse in the area around the eyes because complications and side effects may be frequent and long lasting. The size of the needle required to insert the material can create substantial trauma and bruising to the thin and fragile tissue in the area below the eye. The material is thick and can at times be seen through thin tissue in this area.
When lumpiness became a problem in the early experience with Radiesse for lip augmentation (most experts recommended avoiding use of Radiesse in the lips), many of us realized that this could be an even more significant problem around the eyes. Finally the potential for "retinal artery occlusion" is also a fear we share with others.
Radiesse is not the only injectable implant that has demonstrated the potential for problems in the area under the eyes. Use of hyaluronic fillers is also associated with long term edema or swelling as well as discoloration. However we do have an antidote of sorts for these fillers while there is none for Radiesse. Having stated this I am becoming more and more conservative on the use of any filler in the trough area with the exception of injectable fat used through an open "transconjunctival approach".
Once a problem has become evident, as in your case, there are some doctors who feel that Kenalog (steroid) injections may help dissolve the material, but there can be side effects to this type of treatment and we have not found it helpful. At this point camouflage, massage, and cover up make-up may be the only alternatives. Ultimately, complete resolution may take up to one year.
