Radiesse

Radiesse is a volumizing filler gel made of calcium-based microspheres (calcium hydroxylapatite). It is injected under the skin to act as a scaffold, provide structure and stimulate collagen. Radiesse was approved by the FDA in 2006 to correct moderate-to-severe facial wrinkles and folds. Treatment typically lasts for up to one year. Lidocaine, a numbing medicine, is often mixed in the syringe to make the treatment more tolerable.

The most common side effects of Radiesse are soreness and swelling at the injection site. Swelling usually subsides within three days. There is always a risk of bruising with any injection, so stay away from aspirin and such anti-inflammatories as Motrin, Ibuprofen and Aleve prior to your treatment. These over-the-counter products can make you more prone to bleeding and bruising.