Why Didn't Radiesse Last for me As Claimed by the Producer Mfr?

Question

I had 2 syringes of Radiesse, 0.8 injected into both cheeks in late April, 11' by an R.N. working as an daily basis giving injections of several different fillers. She told me I could expect the filler to last at least for 9 mos. to a year. By June of 11', my cheeks were flat, as if nothing was used to enhance my facial looks. I contacted the Mfr. I believe, who is Mertz, (sp) and they contacted the R.N. who claimed that I needed at least 1.5 per syringe. She never told me that. No photo given

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

Although it is hard to say without seeing you, generally 0.8cc of Radiesse is not sufficient to achieve enough of a result that will sustain. Generally the 1.5cc syringes are needed for the midface and lower facial areas.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I do not use the .8 cc syringes.  Many medispas advertise bargain rates per syringe and then inject less product which does not do the job.  I agree with others that the amount injected was in all likelihood insufficient.   I would also encourage you to see a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist who will not just inject but have the clinical judgment appropriate to patient treatment.

Jacqueline Calkin, MD · Answer

I agree that it was likely due to insufficient product used. Having said that, there are individual differences that no one can account for.  I would try one more time and if it happens again, then Radiesse is not for you.

David A. Bray, Sr., MD · Answer

Unfortunately, the filler products vary in longevity from person to person. I find that Radiesse cheek injections last about one year or longer. Obviously injection technique can also play a role. Try again with Perlane

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

I use quick a bit of Perlane and Radiesse for Cheek Augmentation and IMHO, it typically takes two, 1.5 syringes to shape the cheeks.  Radiesse will last up to 12 months, Perlane abouit 8 or 9 months but IMO, if you use the bare minimum (as in your case) as soon as some of the material goes away, the results appear below the aesthetic ideal.

	I'd suggest having the cheeks fully augmented using either Perlane or Radiesse by an MD with great aesthetic judgement (because there's no inherent magic in the fillers themselves) and see what you get and how long it lasts.  For permanent cheek augmentation, I use silastic Cheek Implants.

Why Didn't Radiesse Last for me As Claimed by the Producer Mfr?

Answers (6)