Radiesse and Sculptra  are both well-known dermal fillers that are used in treating common signs of facial aging such as wrinkles, lines, and volume loss. They have much in common which is why they are often seen as equivalent. Both fillers are also referred to as collagen bio-stimulators, which suggests that that once injected, they help in the production of collagen and other skin firming proteins. Besides this, both Sculptra and Radiesse are known for being less painful, requiring minimal downtime, and are also used to address the same facial areas. However, despite having so much in common, they are quite distinct from each other.

What are the differences in the formulae of Sculptra and Radiesse?

Sculptra

The formula used by Sculptra is called poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic material that with time, can be easily absorbed by the body. It makes use of the inflammatory response to set off the production of collagen. Once injected, Sculptra gets your immune system to start making fibroblasts which then encapsulate the filler. This ultimately leads to the production of collagen in the particular area giving the area a firmer are thickened appearance.

Radiesse

This injectable filler makes use of a gel which comprises calcium hydroxylapatite. These are essentialy minute calcium microspheres that are similar in its structure to what is found in bones and teeth. Radiesse is also a bio-stimulator that triggers fibroblasts to start producing collagen. However, it is different from Sculptra  as it is non-inflammatory as the calcium particles start settling themselves in the skin akin to a scaffold that protects new skin growing in that area.

What  results can you expect from these fillers?

Both Radiesse and Sculptra are fillers that can address concerns of significant volume loss that leads to skin sagging and sunken facial areas. They also help take care of deep folds such as the nasolabial folds along with skin depressions like scars and stretch marks. Both fillers are also used for rejuvenation of the hands but in the case of Radiesse, the viscosity is higher. This gives you better results when it comes to making the appearance of veins or tendons.

When can you expect the results?

One of the biggest differences between Radiesse and Sculptra lies in the amount of time they take to show results. Bio-stimulators take time to show results because it is a while before they get the body to produce collagen. Hence, in the case of Sculptra, it may be a few weeks or even a month before the appearance of the end result. Radiesse on the other hand, is slightly different as it gives you an almost immediate effect. You can see an increase in volume primarily because of its high viscosity which also gives you an added benefit of extended collagen production.

How long do the results last?

Dermal fillers are known for providing temporary solutions and sooner or later starts degrading making the area go back to its pre-treatment state. There are also various other factors that determine the longevity of the results. Having said that, Radiesse and Sculptra happen to be among the most long lasting fillers that are available today. While Radiesse lasts almost a whole year, Sculptra has a longer life and you can enjoy the results for almost 24 months. You can however, sustain the results of both the fillers for longer by undergoing proper treatments of maintenance from time to time under the guidance of a skilled dermatologist.

Do these fillers cause pain?

It is said that out of Radiesse and Sculptra, the former causes more discomfort when injected than the latter. This is because Radiesse is required to be injected much deeper into the skin. Having said that, both treatments are non-surgical and this entails minimal pain especially if they are performed by a well experienced and skilled surgeon. Besides, you can also apply a topical cream to prevent bruising and discomfort before the injection is pushed.

What is the recovery time?

There is no downtime required for either Radiesse or Sculptra. You can go back to your routine life soon after the procedure. However, in case of Sculptra, you need to follow a few extra after care tips. Patients are generally advised to give the injected area a five-minute massage multiple times a day for the first five days after the procedure in the case of Sculptra. There is however, no such requirement for Radiesse patients.

In case you are interested in Radiesse or Sculptra  or want to know more about dermal fillers you can contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Shah at Shah Plastic Surgery.