Radiesse Bad Results: Managing Complications

David Fuller

Last Updated On: June 21, 2024

According to a study published in the Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, reactions from dermal fillers only occur in about 0.01% to 1.0% of patients. Despite these low percentages, it’s crucial to be aware of potential adverse effects when planning any non-surgical cosmetic procedure.

One of the most popular fillers is from Radiesse. While generally safe, this filler can occasionally lead to complications such as infection and pain, similar to other dermal fillers. While these occurrences are rare, understanding the risks and potential side effects is essential before undergoing the procedure.

This article will explore the potential complications of Radiesse injections, including statistics and common side effects, to help you make informed decisions before cosmetic procedures.

Key Takeaways

• Radiesse fillers help smooth wrinkles and add volume but sometimes can cause lumps or the filler to move.
• If needed, Doctors can fix problems like too much filler or lumps using massages, medicine, or surgery.
• Patients should know about possible side effects and talk with their doctors before getting Radiesse to set realistic expectations.
• Keeping clean during treatments and following up with patients helps prevent complications.
• Patients must give informed consent and understand all risks and benefits before treatment.

About: Operating since 2016, Med Supply Solutions is known for being one of the industry’s top and trusted suppliers of cosmetic and viscosupplementation products. If you’re looking to buy Radiesse online, contact our sales department for more information.

Introduction to Radiesse Complications

Radiesse fillers are popular for improving skin elasticity and volume in the face and hands. They last 12 to 18 months. While many people enjoy the benefits without issues, some face complications such as pain, swelling, and more severe problems like vision abnormalities or even stroke. 

Understanding these complications is crucial for medical professionals who aim to provide safe treatments. Radiesse injections boost collagen production, resulting in fuller and more youthful-looking skin. The main ingredient in Radiesse is a mineral-like compound found naturally in human bones, making it safe for most people.

 These injections are often used on the face, like jowls and marionette lines, and on hands due to their ability to improve skin elasticity, which has been reduced due to aging or weight loss. 

Understanding Radiesse Complications

Understanding the potential complications associated with Radiesse injections is crucial for ensuring patient safety and satisfaction.  Despite Radiesse manufacturer’s careful research in creating the product, complications may still occur. Awareness of these risks allows medical professionals to address problems effectively and keep patients happy. 

• Granulomas: These lumps can develop following Radiesse injections, resulting from the body’s immune response to the filler. Diagnosis typically entails a review of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination, occasionally supplemented with imaging studies or a biopsy. Treatment options may encompass corticosteroid injections or, if essential, surgical excision. 
• Nodules: Doctors and patients can be concerned about nodules from Radiesse treatments. These small, hard lumps may form if the filler doesn’t spread well under the skin, often due to a fast injection or overfilling. 
• Migration: Migration of Radiesse filler can lead to uneven facial contours or lumps. Causes include injecting too much product or placing it superficially. Precise techniques, deep injections, and patient education are crucial in preventing migration and ensuring optimal results.
• Overfilling: Overfilling with Radiesse filler can lead to uneven or excessively full areas, such as in the jowls or marionette lines, causing discomfort and a bumpy texture. Treatment may involve immediate massage or, in severe cases, removal of some filler. Educating patients about potential complications is essential for managing expectations and outcomes.

Managing Radiesse Complications

Handling Radiesse issues requires careful steps and expert advice. Doctors use their knowledge to fix problems and help patients feel better. Some patients face complications that need expert handling.

Image courtesy of Richmond ENT

A patient received Radiesse injections to rejuvenate her overall appearance. Radiesse filler and Xeomin were injected, and a lip lift was performed. As a result, the patient experienced a significant improvement in facial volume and contour, enhancing her overall facial harmony and youthfulness.

Image courtesy of Richmond ENT

One month after receiving 7 syringes of Radiesse on her cheeks and temples, the patient experienced a remarkable facial volume and contour improvement, achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance. The treatment successfully addressed her sunken cheeks, restoring a natural and harmonious facial profile.

Bruising, swelling, and redness are just some of the common complications of Radiesse fillers. Patients need to discuss these potential risks with their healthcare provider before undergoing Radiesse injections to ensure they make an informed decision.

Expert Opinions on Effective Management Strategies

Medical professionals emphasize the importance of immediate action when addressing complications related to Radiesse injections. Techniques such as massaging the area to distribute the filler evenly and using hyaluronidase to dissolve excessive filler are recommended. Close post-treatment monitoring, patient education about potential side effects, and consideration of alternative fillers are also vital. 

Implementing thorough consultation processes, staying updated on injection techniques, and having emergency protocols are crucial for ensuring patient safety and minimizing risks associated with Radiesse treatments. It’s important to note that Merz Aesthetics manufactures Radiesse.

Preventive Measures to Minimize Risk

Radiesse injections offer aesthetic benefits, but a thorough consultation is crucial for a safe and successful outcome. Doctors should review medical history, assess for infections, and discuss goals to ensure Radiesse is the right choice. 

• Thorough Consultation: Conduct a comprehensive consultation to assess the patient’s medical history, allergies, and potential risk factors for complications.
• Proper Technique: Ensure precise injection techniques to avoid overfilling, migration, or uneven filler distribution.
• Patient Education: Educate patients about potential side effects, proper post-treatment care, and what to expect during recovery.
• Alternative Fillers: If a patient has a history of adverse reactions to Juvederm or similar fillers, consider alternative fillers like Radiesse or Sculptra.
• Emergency Protocols: Have emergency protocols to manage severe reactions, ensuring the practice is prepared to act swiftly in case of complications.

Importance of Patient Education and Informed Consent

Educating patients about Radiesse filler in areas like under the eyes, cheeks, or marionette lines is crucial for setting realistic expectations and ensuring informed decision-making. Patients should understand that rare side effects can occur. 

Discussing potential side effects such as pain, swelling, or more serious issues ensures patients are fully aware of the treatment process. Informed consent is essential, empowering patients to make decisions aligned with their health and beauty goals. Providing information on Radiesse ingredients and comparing them to alternatives enables patients to make informed choices that best fit their needs.

Conclusion

Addressing Radiesse complications requires a comprehensive understanding of their causes, presentation, and management. By leveraging insights from case studies, expert opinions, and evidence-based interventions, medical professionals can effectively navigate and mitigate adverse outcomes associated with Radiesse injections. 

Furthermore, implementing preventive measures and prioritizing patient education can improve clinical practice standards, ultimately enhancing patient safety and satisfaction.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of Radiesse, and how can they be managed?

Common side effects of Radiesse include bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site. These usually resolve on their own within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage pain, and applying ice can help reduce swelling.

2. What area in the face can we use Radiesse?

Radiesse can be used in various areas of the face, including the cheeks, nasolabial folds (smile lines), marionette lines, and jawline.

3. Who should I reach out to if I have complications from Radiesse?

If you experience any complications from Radiesse, it’s best to contact your healthcare provider or the clinic where you received treatment. 

4. How often can I use Radiesse?

Typically, Radiesse treatments are spaced several months apart, with results lasting 12 to 18 months. 

References

Owczarczyk‐Saczonek A, Zdanowska N, Wygonowska E, Placek W. The immunogenicity of hyaluronic fillers and its consequences. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2021;Volume 14:921-934. doi:10.2147/ccid.s316352

Enrico Massidda. Starting Point for Protocols on the Use of Hyperdiluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse®) for Optimizing Age-Related Biostimulation and Rejuvenation of Face, Neck, Décolletage and Hands: A Case Series Report. Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology. 2023;Volume 16:3427-3439. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s420068

Radiesse: Cost, How It Works, Procedure, Targeted Areas, and More. Healthline. Published April 20, 2018. https://www.healthline.com/health/radiesse