Radiesse Versus Juvederm

Radiesse and Juvederm are both beneficial lifting products that a cosmetic surgeon or medical provider may use. Many providers will incorporate both products into their practice. The main difference between the two is that Radiesse usually requires a deeper injection and the outcome is a lift that lasts longer in some areas. On the other hand, using Juvederm allows for corrections to be quickly made if a mistake happens or an event occurs that is viewed as unfavorable.

Each has some unique additional advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before a treatment is performed. Here is a more in-depth look at each one.

The Strengths and Weaknesses of Radiesse

Radiesse does an excellent job of creating a natural appearance after being injected. It is made from calcium hydroxyapatite, so it has a high level of firmness that can support treatment areas over a longer period of time. When used to treat large wrinkles or creases, it creates a very smooth complexion. Radiesse may also be used for structural supports in weakened areas, such as under the eyes, along the nose, or under the jaw line.

When properly installed, a Radiesse treatment can last for up to 18 months. When compared to Juvederm, it tends to be more expensive at a treatment center.

Radiesse also has an advantage in the fact that is doesn’t just have to be used to create lift in the face. Some people may find it beneficial to add this product to the backs of their hands, along an arm or leg, or to fill in places where the skin has recessed to create uncomfortable bone and tendon lines. Because it goes into the deeper fatty tissues, but still isn’t a permanent filler that may cause a problematic infection later on.

The most common side effect from a Radiesse injection is bruising and perhaps a slight swelling. Because the product is fairly firm, there may also be the possibility of lumps developing over time underneath the skin and this is the primary disadvantage of this product. In the unlikely event that lumps do form, they cannot be immediately removed or corrected.

Many of the outcomes are based on the skill of the person who is performing the treatment, so it is beneficial to select someone who has a high degree of experience using this product.

The Strengths and Weaknesses of Juvederm

Juvederm tends to be the #1 choice of practitioners for facial injections because it has a more forgiving nature. The results of a Juvederm injection can last for up to 12 months and the product is easier to mold and shape into place when compared to Radiesse. Another added benefit of using Juvederm is that the results can be immediately changed with a simple injection of Hyaluronidase.

Juvederm is primarily used to enhance the fullness of the lips or to provide support for small wrinkles throughout the face.

The one disadvantage of Juvederm is that it is a thinner product, so more injections are typically required to produce a satisfactory result. Whereas Radiesse tends to correct volume loss, Juvederm is more about treating surface loss since it is injected closer to the surface of the skin.

Juvederm also has a common side effect of bruising when applied and swelling may occur at the injection site. Some people are naturally allergic to the hyaluronic acid that makes up its foundation, which can be problematic if the allergy is slow developing.

Which One Is the Best To Choose?

In many clinics, doctors will give the patient the option as to which filler product they wish to use. For sunken cheeks and other large support problems, the best choice tends to be Radiesse because of how firm and long-lasting it tends to be. For simple procedures that are focused on providing fine, more precise results, Juvederm tends to be the better option. Many providers will have a protocol in place, however, that calls for Juvederm for around the lips and Radiesse for other facial features that require a lift.

The most important component of using either item is the experience and professionalism of the treatment provider. Improper injections of either Radiesse or Juvederm can translate into serious problems. Ask for references before agreeing to any procedure, go through a treatment providers before and after portfolio, and examine their facilities. This will give you the best chance to experience the complete lift results that are wanted.