How long can I continue to ice the area to reduce the swelling after using Radiesse?

Using ice to decrease potential swelling after an injection session with Radiesse is a common benign practice. There’s no real harm to it, if used within reason. However, past the first 24-48 hours, it’s unlikely to be of much benefit.

When Radiesse is used to lift and fill the cheeks it is placed deep within the tissues and then molding to finish the contour.  You may swell slightly for 1-3 days which will be diminished with keeping the area cool but not frozen for the same time period.  Limiting sports activities that increase your heart rate will also help to minimize the swelling.  Ask the physician that did the injections about icing instructions.

Swelling can persist for 2-3 weeks in some cases. I suggest an antihistamine (Claritin or Allegra), Arnika forte, and time.  Icing usually isn't helpful after a few days but there is no harm in doing it.  Avoid prolonged hot showers or exercise, steam rooms, submersion in water for a few weeks that will help too.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Hi B.  We usually let our patients know to ice for 2-3 days after treatment.  Radiesse can feel hard and bumpy immediately after treatment, but the product smooths out over the first week.  If you have concerns, you should contact your injector.  For examples of before and after pictures of Radiesse injections for our Torrance and Orange, CA patients click on the link below.  

Thank you for your question. You can ice the treated area for 10 minutes 2 times a day for the first 24-48 hours after treatment to help reduce swelling. After this there is not much benefit. I hope this helps.