Radiesse complications - what to do next?

Question

I had my fourth round of Radiesse 16 months ago. I had an MRI scan last month and it shows that the filler is still under there (in the cheek, jaw and temple area) and the Radiesse is sitting on the surface and has not turned to collagen. I have the report to prove it (attached) Is this down to poor injection technique because the injector placed it too superficially? I have read it should be collagen by now. Can anything be done to get the Radiesse out? Where can one go from here? Many thanks.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

Radiesse does not turn into collagen after it is injected.  It does cause stimulation of collagen around where the Radiesse is placed though.  In my experience, I have not seen the effect from Radiesse last more than 18 months.  I have also not seen an effective method to remove Radiesse.  I would recommend waiting more time, and the Radiesse should dissipate by itself.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist to go over your results and concerns. If you're unhappy with your results with Radiesse, venus legacy treatments and 5FU/steroids can help give improvement. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Patricia Faraz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Radiesse does not turn into collagen. Radiesse stimulates collagen production in the area it is injected. Radiesse is a longer lasting filler, which patients love. Radiesse can last up to 18 months. 
Best to you,

E. John Serrao, MD (retired) · Answer

Hello CitySphinx, in  my experience the product lasts between 9 to 15 months. If you are happy with your results you are fortunate to have the product still present. Radiesse does not turn into collagen and gets absorbed into your tissue over time. Unfortunately unlike hyaluronic acid fillers which can be dissolved using hyaluronidase injections, there is no product that removes Radiesse. The use of saline injections has been attempted with variable results. Good luckTake Care,Dr. John Serrao

Radiesse complications - what to do next?

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