Radiesse Removal - how long does it actually last?

Question

Hi, I had radiesse 4 months ago. It was misplaced high on my cheek bones where I did not want it. I have tried saline and massage 3+ times, to get rid of it but with little result. I had .2cc in one side and .6cc on the other. My questions are: 1. How long does radiesse actually last? 2. Does your tissue ever go completely back to baseline? 3. Does low dose kenalog (2.5-5) and 5fu still have atrophy risk? Thank you.

David Branch, MD · Answer

Johnnytellme, I'm sorry that your filer was misplaced and unfortunately cannot be "dissolved". Radiesse can last 12 to 18 months or longer depending on the patient. your tissue will go back to baseline eventually as the filler is broken down and metabolized. Any type of steroid injection will have risk of atrophy and hypopigmentation, even at a low dose. This could permanently distort your face. I do not personally use either Kenalog or 5FU for addressing Radiesse mistakes, although some studies have shown successful treatment of non-inflammatory nodules related to CaHA injection (Radiesse) using a combination of steroids and 5FU. Hope this helps!

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

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

I'm sorry you are experiencing issues with your facial Radiesse.  
Radiesse starts to be absorbed the moment after it is injected.  It usually lasts 8-12 months on average so expect to see little improvements month to month.  I am not a fan of with the Kenalog or 5FU injections for this issue.
You may try some ultrasound therapy (I do not offer this) to aid in its absorption.
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Radiesse Removal - how long does it actually last?

Answers (3)

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.

Radiesse Removal - how long does it actually last?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

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.