Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

Question

Hi! I had one syringe of Radiesse injected into each of my cheeks 5 days ago to add volume. I am experiencing a very unfomfortqble amount of pressure in my left cheek, especially when I smile - almost like there’s a rock pressing down on that area. My left is also more swollen and firmer than my right. My right feels sore but isn’t bothering me nearly as much. Is this normal to have this much pressure and for the aftermath to be worse in one cheek that the other? Any feedback is helpful, thanks!

Kally Papantoniou, MD, FAAD · Answer

It can take 1-2 weeks for swelling to settle after fillers. It is possible that you may have some deep bruising and that is why it feels so swollen and stiff. I would give it some more time, and sleep elevated on 2-3 pillows (sleep on your back). If in another week you do not see that you are improving I would return to your doctor for evaluation.Best, Dr P.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Radiesse is an FDA-Approved filler that we use very frequently in our office to sculpt the contours of the face. Since we are a national center of excellence for filler reversal, we also encounter patients from other doctors' offices who wish to have Radiesse fillers removed for one reason or another. In our office, we employ a directed technique to visualize the filler material, if possible on ultrasound, and then use non-surgical methods to dissolve the filler or granuloma tissue using intralesional injections. There are many methods using a combination of enzymes, intralesional modulators of scar tissue, and Kenalog to help reduce volume and remaining filler. These techniques require meticulous attention to detail and can be performed at intervals of two to three weeks to achieve longterm effect.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.You may have a hematoma on the left side. A hematoma is a collection of blood under the skin. These are very common and happen all the time. I would suggest some warm compresses and light massage to help with the discomfort.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This may be due to swelling, which is typical after injections, and should improve in 1-2 weeks. If you remain concerned, I recommend following up with your injector. Best, Dr. Emer

Anteneh Roba, MD · Answer

It’s normal to feel discomfort for a few hours after a series of injections, but it usually subsides fairly quickly and 1 cc of Radiesse isn’t enough to cause pressure pain. Without examining you in person or looking at photos it’s hard to say what is going on. You may want to check with your injector.

Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

Answers (9)

Answer: Radiesse results--takes 1-2 weeks

Answer: Radiesse results--takes 1-2 weeks

Answer: Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

Answer: Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

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Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

Answers (9)

Answer: Radiesse results--takes 1-2 weeks

Answer: Radiesse results--takes 1-2 weeks

Answer: Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

Answer: Is uncomfortable pressure in cheeks normal after Radiesse?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Radiesse

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.