Radiesse vs. Restylane: Facial Filler Choices for Nasolabial Folds

Nasolabial augmentation with Restylane, Juvederm, or Radiesse is common. Patients have an increasing number of choices when it comes to the type of filler and the plane of injection.

In our practice, we exclusively employ Radiesse for the nasolabial folds and Juvederm for the lips.  It is not to say that this is the only option available, but it is the choice that our office has made based on longterm patient satisfaction.

In discussing your options with a surgeon or dermatologist, ensure that your physician is familiar with all methods and types of facial fillers.

Hi Pippin,

Radiesse has been shown to last the longest of the "non-permanent" fillers, anywhere from 9 to 18 months.  Juviderm and Restylane have similar longevity to each other, about 6 to 9 months.  There are studies that show that one lasts longer than the other and vice versa, sponsored by the companies.

The hyaluronic acid products Juviderm, Restylane, and Preville Silk, are softer and easier to massage.  Radiesse is a thicker product that leaves a bit more initial swelling, but after a few days settles down.  There is a slight increased risk of bleeding and bruising with Radiesse.

Evolence, newer porcine derived collagen filler, is touted to be the least likely filler to cause bleeding and bruising.  It is represented as the filler of choice for those patients who need a "last minute filler" for the same day, but can't afford any bruising or swelling.  Both Evolence and Radiesse can be used in the nasolabial folds, but not in the lips.  Juviderm and Restylane can be used in the lips.

More important than the product injected is finding a well trained physician with an excellent sense of beauty for your injections.  Which leads us to the saying that, "It's the Filler (your injecting physician), not the filler (the actual product)" that is the secret to restoring facial volume.

Be well and happy Holidays.

Dr. P

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Most fillers do great in the nasolabial areas so you can't go wrong with almost any of them. Juvederm tends to last longer than Restylane but Radiesse lasts longer than either one. I also like Artefill since it lasts 4-5 yrs but the company went bankrupt recently and it will be hard to get. We still have some. I often put in the radiesse in 2 sessions so it looks the smoothest and most natural. Most nasolabial grooves or creases take 2 syringes of whatever product you so choose. Some deep ones need even 3 syringes.

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Radiesse is an excellent choice for a filler in the nasolabial fold area, as well as the cheek.  Restylane and Juvederm are also good choices, however they reportedly do not last as long as Radiesse-which can last up to one year or longer.  Radiesse needs to be injected at the right depth to avoid any bumps under the skin which can be bothersome to some patients. Juvederm is an excellent choice for the lips whereas Radiesse is not intended for use in the lips as it is firmer in consistency than either Restylane or Juvederm.

Please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who is familiar with these fillers and their potential complications.  

Best wishes,

Dr. Bruno

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