Radiesse lumps that get inflamed when massaged - Is this an allergic reaction? Am I developing granuloma? (photos)

Radiesse is a dermal filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite, and it is commonly used to treat wrinkles and add volume to certain areas of the face. The presence of lumps or inflammation after Radiesse injections can have various causes, and it's crucial to differentiate between them. Here are a couple of possibilities:1.) Inflammation: Some level of inflammation is common after dermal filler injections, including Radiesse. This can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site. It's usually temporary and should resolve within a few days to a week. Massaging the area gently, as recommended by your healthcare provider, can help distribute the filler evenly and reduce any unevenness.2.) Granuloma Formation: Granulomas are small, firm, and sometimes painful lumps that can form in response to certain substances, including dermal fillers. They are essentially a type of immune response to a foreign substance. Granulomas can develop days, weeks, or even months after the injection. If you suspect granuloma formation, it's essential to consult with a dermatologist or a healthcare provider who specializes in cosmetic procedures. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.3.) Allergic Reaction: While allergic reactions to Radiesse are rare, they can occur. Allergic reactions might manifest as redness, itching, hives, or swelling beyond what is expected after the procedure. If you suspect an allergic reaction, it's important to seek immediate medical attention.In any case, if you are experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, it is essential to contact the healthcare professional who administered the Radiesse injections or consult a dermatologist for a proper evaluation and guidance. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options. It's important not to attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat in such situations, as it could potentially worsen the condition or lead to complications.

Radiesse is a stimulatory filler that is an excellent option for patients who desire a longer-lasting filler alternative to hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. In our office, we use Radiesse to complement structural areas of the face and contour bony prominences. Our office also is a center of excellence for filler complication treatments and we see patients who have been treated by other doctors and have undesirable results from Radiesse or other long-lasting fillers. We have treatment options available for Radiesse filler nodules, granulomas, and soft tissue thickening. The first step would be to diagnose the nodularity and determine whether there is an option for surgical vs. non-surgical removal. Surgical excision is a possibility in some patients; whereas others with more diffuse fillers may benefit from intralesional therapy using scar modulators and enzymes and kenalog. Radiesse complications may be long-lasting and prompt action is key. Patients who have no access to an expert in the field should begin gentle massage of the areas of nodularity with Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily. RF and invasive lasers can actually do more damage by stimulating further collagen growth.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

H there,

I would need to know how long it has been since injection. Radiesse can stay a bit bumpy for quite some time. There really is nothing in Radiesse to be allergic too. I would suggest a follow up with your injector to see if you need a little Kenalog in that area.

Best of luck!