Radiesse technique looks like balls in cheeks. Laser or saline to break it down?

Question

I have too much radiesse in my cheeks they look like balls, will lasers or saline help to break it down and make it spread out and flatten more?

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

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Leanne.  Radiesse is not like most other dermal fillers in that there is no easy way to remove it.  With that said, if your injections feel lumpy like small marbles under the skin, then this may be remedied with steroid injections.  Laser and saline will not work well.  Best bet is to visit your injector to discuss your concerns and come up with a treatment plan.  Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without an in-person evaluation. If you're unhappy with your Radiesse results, it can be improved with venus legacy treatments and 5/FU steroids. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer

Kyle T. Yamamoto, MD · Answer

Depending on when you had the injection, some of your result may or may not be a product of some residual swelling after having the injection.  If the result is several weeks after the injection, the "balls" are more likely to be the Radiesse.Unfortunately, Radiesse does not break down with Hylenex the same way other fillers do (e.g. Juvederm, Restylane).  A small amount of Hylenex, however, can sometimes have an effect to reduce the fullness of the Radiesse.  Other medications like 5-FU and Kenalog can also help reduce the fullness of Radiesse.  Gentle massage can also help slightly flatten an area that is full.Remember that Radiesse is temporary and will eventually completely dissolve over time.  The key is to be conservative with any treatment that you decide on. Time is your best plan to improve the appearance of your cheeks.Best of luck!

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

You dont state how long ago the injection was. if only afgew days you may be able to massage some to help but if longer you should see a board certified dermatologist and see if there is anything that can be done

Radiesse technique looks like balls in cheeks. Laser or saline to break it down?

Answers (5)

Answer: Get rid of Radiesse

Answer: Get rid of Radiesse

Answer: Radiesse question

Answer: Radiesse question

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 technique looks like balls in cheeks. Laser or saline to break it down?

Answers (5)

Answer: Get rid of Radiesse

Answer: Get rid of Radiesse

Answer: Radiesse question

Answer: Radiesse question

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.