What are Radiesse & Sculptra?
Radiesse® is a premium, FDA-approved dermal filler formulated with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres, which provide both instant volume restoration and long-term collagen stimulation.
Unlike traditional fillers, Radiesse® works beneath the skin’s surface to rebuild structural support, creating a firmer and more youthful complexion.
This versatile treatment is ideal for correcting moderate to severe facial wrinkles, defining facial contours, and rejuvenating aging hands. Common treatment areas include the jawline, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and backs of hands. The filler integrates naturally with your skin, offering smooth, long-lasting enhancements with minimal downtime.
Most treatments take just 30-45 minutes and require little to no recovery time, making Radiesse® a convenient choice for those looking for effective, non-surgical facial and hand rejuvenation. Results are visible immediately, and as the filler stimulates collagen production, your skin continues to improve for up to 12-18 months.
Treatment Areas
Common treatment areas include the jawline, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and backs of hands.
Radiesse & Sculptra in Edmonton
Curious about Radiesse®? We’ve answered the most common questions to help you understand this collagen-boosting dermal filler, its benefits, results, and aftercare. Learn everything you need to know before your treatment!
Is Radiesse® safe?
Yes, Radiesse® is FDA-approved and has been widely used in aesthetic medicine for many years. It consists of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel, which naturally integrates with your skin. The formula is biocompatible and non-toxic, meaning it is safely absorbed and metabolized by the body over time.
Since Radiesse® stimulates natural collagen production, it provides long-term improvements without harmful effects. Side effects are generally minimal and may include mild swelling or bruising, which typically resolves within a few days. When administered by a qualified professional, Radiesse® is a safe and effective filler option.
Who is an ideal candidate for Radiesse®?
Radiesse® is an excellent choice for individuals looking to restore lost volume, smooth deep wrinkles, and improve facial contours. Ideal candidates are those experiencing moderate to severe facial wrinkles, jawline definition loss, or aging hands with prominent veins and tendons.
It is best suited for healthy adults who do not have severe allergies, active skin infections, or autoimmune conditions. Since Radiesse® stimulates collagen production, it’s particularly beneficial for those wanting long-lasting, natural-looking results. A consultation with a skilled provider will help determine if Radiesse® is the right dermal filler for your unique concerns and aesthetic goals.
Does Radiesse® treatment hurt?
Most clients report only mild discomfort during a Radiesse® treatment. The procedure involves small injections, which may cause slight pressure or a pinching sensation. To minimize discomfort, a topical numbing agent or lidocaine (a local anesthetic) can be used before the procedure.
The injection process typically lasts 30-45 minutes, and most clients find it very tolerable. Some mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising may occur after the treatment, but these effects subside within a few days. Overall, Radiesse® is a minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime, making it a convenient option for facial and hand rejuvenation.
How long do the results last?
Radiesse® results are long-lasting, typically maintaining visible improvements for 12-18 months. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which primarily add volume, Radiesse® also stimulates collagen production, providing extended benefits even after the initial filler is absorbed.
The duration of results depends on individual factors such as metabolism, lifestyle, and the treatment area. Areas with frequent movement, like the lips, may break down the filler faster than areas like the jawline. To maintain optimal results, many clients opt for touch-up treatments once a year. Your provider will create a personalized plan to ensure long-lasting rejuvenation tailored to your needs.
Radiesse Med Spa Treatments
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Discontinue the use of aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil supplements 7 to 10 days prior to treatment. If you are prescribed any of these medications for a medical condition, consult your physician before stopping them.
- No Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before your treatment, as it may increase the risk of bruising.
- No Smoking: Refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours prior to your treatment to promote optimal healing and reduce complications.
- Skincare Products: Discontinue the use of retinoids, glycolic acid, and other active skincare products 2 to 3 days before treatment. These products may cause skin sensitivity and irritation.
- Health Information: Disclose all relevant medical conditions, allergies (especially to lidocaine or similar anesthetics), medications, and previous filler treatments to your provider. Full disclosure is essential to avoid adverse reactions and complications.
- Cold Sores: If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), notify your provider before treatment.
You may require antiviral medication to prevent an outbreak. - Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before your appointment to ensure proper hydration and improve skin condition.
- Avoid Treatment: Treatment with Radiesse should not be performed if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have active skin infections at or near the treatment site.
Disclaimer: These instructions are provided to ensure optimal treatment results and reduce the risk of complications. Failure to follow the guidelines may result in undesirable outcomes.
Post-Treatment Guidelines
- Redness & Swelling: Mild redness and swelling are normal and typically resolve within 1 to 3 days. If swelling or redness persists beyond this period, contact your provider.
- Minor Bruising: Light bruising may occur in treated areas and usually subsides within a week.
You may apply topical arnica to the treated area to help reduce bruising. - Ice Application: Apply a cold compress to the treated area for 10 to 15 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours following treatment to minimize swelling and bruising.
- Avoid Pressure: Do not massage or apply pressure to the treated area unless specifically instructed to do so by your provider.
- Exercise & Heat: Avoid strenuous physical activities, saunas, hot yoga, and direct sun exposure for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment to reduce the risk of swelling and irritation.
- No Alcohol/Smoking: Refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours after treatment to aid in healing and reduce the risk of complications.
- Pain Relief: If you experience discomfort, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed. Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs as they may increase the risk of bruising.
- Hydrate & Gentle Skincare: Continue to drink plenty of water and use gentle skincare products.
Avoid using retinoids and exfoliating agents for 24 hours post-treatment to allow the skin to heal. - Monitor Healing: Swelling, bruising, or redness should typically resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. If these symptoms persist or worsen, or if you notice signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, contact your provider immediately.
- Sun Protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to the treated areas daily, as sun exposure can negatively affect the longevity and quality of your results.
Disclaimer: These instructions are provided to ensure optimal treatment results and reduce the risk of complications. Failure to follow the guidelines may result in undesirable outcomes.
What to Expect
Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment 4 to 6 weeks after treatment to evaluate your results and discuss any additional treatments or touch-ups.
Results: Initial results are often visible immediately after the procedure, but the full effects will develop over several weeks as the product integrates into the tissue and stimulates collagen production.
Duration of Results: The effects of Radiesse typically last between 12 and 18 months, depending on the treatment area and individual factors such as skin type and metabolism.
Contact Provider: If you experience excessive swelling, severe pain, or signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth, or discharge from the treated area, contact your provider immediately at 587-855-4558 or via email at info@youthfulyou.ca.
Sculptra Med Spa Treatments
Post-Treatment Guidelines
- Redness & Swelling: Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness may occur at the injection sites. This is normal and should resolve within a few days. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your provider.
- Bruising: Minor bruising is common and may last up to one week. Arnica cream or tablets may be used to help minimize bruising.
- Lumps & Bumps: Temporary small lumps may be felt at the injection sites. These usually resolve on their own with proper massage. If persistent, notify your provider.
- Discomfort: Mild soreness or tenderness in the treated areas may occur for 1-2 days. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed. Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin) unless directed by your provider, as these may increase bruising.
- Massage Protocol: Gently massage the treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 days after each session. This helps distribute the product evenly and prevents nodule formation.
- Do Not Touch Excessively: Avoid unnecessary touching, scratching, or pressing on the treated areas for the first 24 hours to reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
- Makeup: Avoid applying makeup to the treated area for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
- Exercise & Heat Exposure: Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot tubs, and activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 24 hours.
- Skincare Products: Resume your normal skincare routine after 24 hours, unless otherwise advised. Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or acids (AHA/BHA) for at least 3-5 days.
- Sunscreen Protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30) daily. Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 1 week after treatment to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation.
Disclaimer: These instructions are provided to ensure optimal treatment results and reduce the risk of complications. Failure to follow the guidelines may result in undesirable outcomes.
What to Expect
- Gradual Improvement: Unlike fillers, results are not immediate. Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production, with results typically becoming noticeable after several weeks.
- Treatment Series: Most clients require a series of 2-3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results.
- Longevity: Improvements can last up to 2 years, depending on individual response and maintenance.
When to Contact Your Provider
If you experience any of the following, contact us immediately at 587-855-4558 or via email at info@youthfulyou.ca:
- Excessive swelling or bruising
- Severe pain or increasing redness
- Hard nodules, asymmetry, or visible lumps that persist Signs of infection (fever, warmth, pus, or discharge at the injection site)