I'm a fan of injectibles. I can see why it's the largest growth sector of the cosmetic surgery business, so much change with one little needle is made possible.
I tried something new two weeks ago to fill lines around my mouth (nasolabial folds) Where previously I'd tried Restalayne, this time I wanted to get to know the newest kid on my Doctors block known as Radiesse. Thise is the newest injectable filler in the category of non-surgical facial contouring fillers. Radiesse is meant for deeper facial creases than the usual crows feet and is said to provide an immediate and longer-lasting result than many of its predecessors.Some of the areas that Radiesse has been used to improve appearances are Smile Lines, Marionette lines, Cheek contouring, Chin Re-shaping, and Jaw Line contouring.
I used this filler on my laugh lines, used it for jaw/chin re-shaping and for removing my newly emerging jowls. While it did provide the same result as Restalayne has in the past but the fact that Radiesse will last from 12-18 months as compared to 4- 6 months with Restalayne was a big motivator to spend the extra money.
The cost for injections was $900 (costs can range from $850 - 1200)
There was some bruising along my jaw line and along the laugh lines but I do bruise easily so it's not certain that everyone will bruise.In addition there was swelling which took 24 hours to go down. My Doctor did numb my face from the inside of my mouth and there was absolutely no pain at all around that area. The chin was another subject and yes it stings. The substance is thicker than Restalayne and other fillers which means that the injection takes a little longer and the pain is a little more intense (still minimal however)
One last thing. Because Radiesse is reported to last from 12-18 months, make VERY sure that the person doing the procedure is well trained. See before and after pictures of THEIR work and if you can, talk to people who have used this professional. I'm not a fan of day spas or getting injections done by anyone other than a trained Plastic Surgeon. These professionals know the face, know how things connect and have a much better eye for where improvements can be made. In my opinion it's not worth the risk or cost-saving to go any other route.
