Background

ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery

Achieve Defined Contours and Radiant Skin with Radiesse®

Dr. Kristin Egan
Dr. Kristin Egan M.D., FACS
Achieve Defined Contours and Radiant Skin with Radiesse®

How Radiesse Works

Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a smooth gel. The gel provides immediate lift and volume. Over the following weeks, the body forms new collagen around the microspheres, helping support the skin for longer-lasting improvement in contour and firmness. Many patients see continued refinement for 6–12 weeks. Results commonly last 12–18 months, and some patients experience benefits closer to 2 years depending on the area treated, individual metabolism, and dosing.

Common Treatment Areas

  • Nasolabial folds (smile/laugh lines)

  • Marionette lines and chin wrinkles

  • Pre-jowl sulcus and jawline definition

  • Chin and cheek contouring

  • Temples for select patients with volume loss

  • Note: Radiesse is not typically used for lips or under-eye (tear trough) treatment

Who Is a Good Candidate?

  • Adults with moderate to severe facial folds or age-related volume loss

  • Patients seeking definition of the jawline, chin, or cheeks without surgery

  • Those who prefer a biostimulatory filler that promotes collagen

  • Individuals in good general health with realistic goals

Who Should Avoid or Use Caution

  • Patients who want lip or under-eye filler (another product may be better suited)

  • Active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals (not studied; defer treatment)

  • Severe allergies to any product components or a history of severe reactions

  • Bleeding disorders or use of blood thinners (discuss risks and timing with your doctor)

  • If you prefer a filler that can be rapidly dissolved; CaHA is not reversible with hyaluronidase

What to Expect at Your Visit

  1. 1

    Consultation and facial assessment: Dr. Egan reviews your goals, anatomy, and medical history.

  2. 2

    Treatment planning: Target areas, product amount, and technique (needle or cannula) are discussed.

  3. 3

    Comfort measures: Topical anesthetic and/or Radiesse with lidocaine may be used for comfort.

  4. 4

    Injections: Small, precise injections add lift and contour. Most visits take 20–45 minutes.

  5. 5

    Refinement: Immediate results are visible; photos and aftercare instructions are provided.

Aftercare and Recovery

  • Expect temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or bruising for a few days.

  • Apply cool compresses in short intervals for the first 24 hours as needed.

  • Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and heat exposure (sauna/hot yoga) for 24 hours.

  • Sleep with your head elevated the first night and avoid pressure on treated areas.

  • Do not massage the area unless instructed. Avoid makeup over injection sites for 12–24 hours.

  • If possible, avoid dental procedures for about 2 weeks around your filler visit.

Results and Longevity

You will see immediate softening and contouring after treatment, with gradual improvement as new collagen develops over the next few months. Many patients enjoy results for 12–18 months. Maintenance treatments can help sustain definition and skin support over time.

Safety Notes

Common, short-term effects include swelling, redness, tenderness, and bruising. Less common risks include lumps or nodules, asymmetry, infection, and very rarely, injection into a blood vessel, which is an emergency. Radiesse (CaHA) is not reversible with hyaluronidase. Choose an experienced injector and contact the office promptly if you notice severe pain, skin discoloration, or visual changes after treatment.

Why Choose Dr. Kristin Egan

Dr. Egan is dual board-certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. With deep expertise in facial anatomy and aesthetics, she tailors Radiesse treatment plans to your features and goals. Appointments are available in Manhattan Beach and Torrance, serving the surrounding Beach Cities.

FAQs

  • Is Radiesse the same as hyaluronic acid fillers? – No. Radiesse uses calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres to lift and stimulate collagen. It is not dissolved with hyaluronidase.

  • How soon will I see results? – Right away, with continued improvement over about 6–12 weeks as collagen forms.

  • How long does Radiesse last? – Many patients see results for 12–18 months; longevity varies by area, dose, and metabolism. Some report benefits up to 2 years.

  • Can Radiesse be combined with other treatments? – Yes. It often complements neuromodulators, hyaluronic acid fillers, and skin treatments. Your plan will be sequenced for safety and optimal results.

  • Does it hurt? – Most patients find treatments very tolerable with topical anesthetic and formulations that include lidocaine.

  • Is there significant downtime? – Downtime is typically minimal. Many patients resume normal activities the same day or next day.

Schedule a Consultation

Explore whether Radiesse is right for you with a personalized consultation by Dr. Egan. Appointments available in Manhattan Beach and Torrance. Contact us to plan your treatment and timeline.

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Egan today

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Achieve Defined Contours and Radiant Skin with Radiesse®