Radiesse Overview
In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine, it can be hard to separate hype from helpful, evidence-informed treatment options. If you’re researching what is Radiesse, my aim is to give you a clear, practical explanation—just like I would in consultation—so you can decide whether Radiesse treatment fits your goals, your timeline, and your comfort level.
Radiesse is a dermal filler used to improve the appearance of certain lines and folds and to restore volume and support in specific areas. It’s also commonly used to rejuvenate the hands. What makes Radiesse different from many hyaluronic acid fillers is its primary ingredient and the way it behaves in tissue over time.

What Is Radiesse Made Of?
Patients often ask me: what is Radiesse made of, and what is in Radiesse exactly?
Radiesse is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a water-based gel.1 The gel provides an immediate “filler” effect, while the CaHA particles act as a scaffold that can support longer-term improvement as your body lays down new collagen in the treated area.2
So, if you’re asking what is Radiesse filler or what is Radiesse dermal filler, the simplest answer is: it’s a calcium-based filler that can provide both immediate support and a gradual collagen response for some patients.2
What Is Radiesse Used For?
What is Radiesse used for depends on your anatomy, the area we’re treating, and the result you want to see. In clinic, Radiesse filler is typically considered when a patient needs:
- Structural support in areas where we want a more “lifted” or supported look rather than soft swelling
- Smoothing of deeper folds in carefully selected cases (for example, certain smile lines)
- Hand rejuvenation where volume loss and visible tendons/veins are a concern
- Skin quality improvement in specific protocols (more on hyperdilution below)
In consultation, I’ll explain where Radiesse injections can be helpful—and where another option (including a hyaluronic acid filler, skin treatments, or even “doing less”) is the better plan. The best outcomes usually come from choosing the right product for the right tissue plane.
How Radiesse Works
When I perform Radiesse injections, the product does two things in a fairly predictable sequence:
- Immediate correction: The gel carrier provides instant volume and contouring support.
- Longer-term support: As the gel is gradually absorbed, the CaHA microspheres remain and may stimulate a collagen response around them, supporting firmer, more resilient tissue over time.2
This is why you’ll see Radiesse described as having both “filler” and “biostimulatory” properties. In practical terms, many patients notice an early improvement, and then a more subtle refinement as the weeks go on.
Dr. Kate’s note: My goal with Radiesse results is always “supported and refreshed,” not “puffy.” When I plan treatment, I’m thinking about structure, balance, and how your face moves—not just how it looks in one still photo.

Radiesse Benefits
When Radiesse is the right match, Radiesse benefits may include:
- Immediate visible improvement in contour or support in the treated area
- Gradual collagen support that can enhance firmness and texture over time2
- Longevity that, for many patients, can last longer than some other filler types (individual variation is significant)
- Versatility for face and hands in appropriate candidates
That said, I’m always careful to frame benefits as “likely outcomes” rather than guarantees. Your metabolism, skin quality, movement patterns, and lifestyle all play a role in how long Radiesse results last and how they evolve.
What Is Hyperdilute Radiesse?
You may also have seen the term what is hyperdilute Radiesse—and it’s a very common question lately.
Hyperdilute Radiesse refers to Radiesse that has been diluted (for example, with sterile saline and/or lidocaine) so it’s used less for “bulk filling” and more for broader collagen stimulation and skin quality improvement in selected areas.3 In this approach, the goal is often improved texture, elasticity, and crepey skin rather than a dramatic volume change.
Not everyone is a candidate for hyperdilute treatment, and technique matters. In my clinic, we discuss your priorities (tightness, texture, laxity, contour) and match the approach to what your tissues can realistically achieve.
The Radiesse Procedure: What to Expect
If you’re considering a Radiesse procedure, here’s what it typically looks like in my Oakville practice:
1) Consultation and planning
We start with your goals and your medical history. I assess facial proportions, skin quality, and how you animate (smile, speak, frown). If your main concern is “tiredness” or “heaviness,” we’ll also talk about whether filler is the right tool—or if skin tightening, lasers, skincare, or neuromodulators would better address the root cause.
2) Pre-treatment preparation
We cleanse thoroughly. Depending on the area, we may use topical numbing and/or product containing anesthetic for comfort. I’ll also review aftercare and discuss how to minimize bruising.
3) Injection technique
Radiesse injections can be placed using a needle or cannula depending on the area and the plan. My priority is safe depth, smooth placement, and conservative dosing. If you’ve seen dramatic “Radiesse before after” transformations online, remember that photos can represent different starting anatomy, different volumes, and different time points.
4) Immediate review and aftercare
You’ll typically see immediate improvement. Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising can occur. Most patients return to normal activities quickly, but I still recommend giving yourself a little breathing room in your schedule if you bruise easily.
Radiesse Before After: Setting Realistic Expectations
It’s natural to search for Radiesse before after photos. I encourage patients to use them for general understanding—but not as a promise of a specific outcome.
Radiesse results depend on:
- Your baseline volume loss and skin thickness
- The area treated (and how much it moves)
- The amount of product used
- Whether we’re aiming for structural support vs. hyperdilute collagen stimulation
- How your body responds over time
In practical terms, most patients notice they look more rested and supported—without looking “done.” If you want a very subtle change, we can plan that. If you want a more noticeable contour shift, we discuss what’s possible and what’s safe.
Radiesse Side Effects and Safety
Any injectable treatment has potential risks. When patients ask me about Radiesse side effects, I break them into common, expected effects versus uncommon complications.
Common, usually temporary effects
- Swelling
- Tenderness or soreness
- Redness
- Bruising
- Small bumps that typically settle as the product integrates
Less common but important risks
More serious complications are uncommon, but they can occur with dermal fillers and require prompt assessment. These include infection, persistent nodules, and vascular complications (when filler affects a blood vessel).4 This is one reason I strongly recommend choosing an experienced, medically trained injector who prioritizes anatomy, conservative technique, and appropriate patient selection.
If you have a history of significant allergies, autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders, or you’re pregnant/breastfeeding, we discuss whether to postpone treatment or choose another option. Safety and appropriateness come first.
Radiesse Cost: What Influences Pricing?
Radiesse cost is a very common search term—and understandably so. In clinic, pricing is usually influenced by:
- How many syringes are required to reach your goal (this varies widely)
- The area treated (face vs. hands; focal vs. broader rejuvenation)
- Whether the plan includes hyperdilute Radiesse protocols over a series
- The injector’s training, medical oversight, and safety standards
In consultation, I’ll give you a transparent plan and options. If budget matters (it often does), we can prioritize areas or stage treatment. A thoughtful plan almost always looks better than trying to do “everything” in one visit.
Radiesse Reviews: How I Interpret Them With Patients
When patients bring in Radiesse reviews, I read them through two lenses:
- Product experience: Was the person happy with longevity, texture, and overall look?
- Provider experience: Did they feel listened to, informed, and supported if they had concerns?
In my experience, satisfaction tends to be highest when expectations are realistic, treatment is conservative and anatomy-led, and follow-up is part of the plan. If you ever feel unsure after treatment, you should feel comfortable contacting your clinic—no hesitation, no embarrassment.
Where Can I Get Radiesse Treatment in Oakville?
If you’re searching where can i get radiesse treatment in oakville, you’ll want a clinic that offers:
- Medical assessment and appropriate screening
- Deep understanding of facial anatomy and safe injection technique
- Clear consent, aftercare instructions, and follow-up support
- A plan that fits your face (not a one-size approach)
At Merrion Medical Aesthetics in Oakville, Radiesse treatment is approached as part of a broader skin and wellness plan—often paired thoughtfully with skincare, collagen-supporting treatments, and lifestyle guidance when appropriate. If you’re curious, a consultation is the best next step so I can assess whether Radiesse filler is the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Radiesse the same as hyaluronic acid filler?
No. Radiesse is a CaHA-based filler, while many other common fillers are hyaluronic acid-based. The “feel,” ideal placement, and intended outcome can differ.
How long do Radiesse results last?
Longevity varies depending on the area treated, your metabolism, and how much movement the area has. In consultation, I’ll give you a realistic range based on what I see clinically.
Does Radiesse look natural?
It can look very natural when placed conservatively and in the right tissue plane. My approach is to support structure and balance—not to change your identity.
What should I avoid after Radiesse injections?
I typically advise avoiding heavy exercise, alcohol, excessive heat (saunas/hot yoga), and pressure or vigorous massage over the treated area for a short period—your specific guidance depends on the area treated and technique used.
Can Radiesse be used for everyone?
No. Patient selection matters. Certain medical histories, skin conditions, or pregnancy/breastfeeding may mean postponing treatment or choosing an alternative.
How do I know if I need Radiesse or another filler?
This is exactly what a good consultation is for. I assess your anatomy and goals, then recommend the most appropriate option—sometimes that’s Radiesse filler, sometimes a hyaluronic acid filler, and sometimes a non-injectable plan.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been asking what is Radiesse, I hope this has given you clarity without overselling. In my practice, Radiesse is a thoughtful tool—best used when it matches the structure and support your tissues need, and when it fits your expectations for subtle, confident-looking change.
If you’re considering Radiesse treatment and you’re local, I’m happy to see you in clinic. We’ll talk through your goals, your options, and whether where can i get radiesse treatment in oakville could be answered simply with: a safe, medically-led plan that feels like you—just a little more refreshed.
References
- Merz Aesthetics. Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) dermal filler: Instructions for Use / Prescribing Information.
- Jacovella PF. Calcium hydroxylapatite facial filler (Radiesse): indications, technique, and results. Clin Interv Aging. 2008.
- Goldie K, et al. Treatment considerations for diluted and hyperdilute calcium hydroxylapatite for skin quality and biostimulation: clinical approaches and outcomes (review). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2020.
- Significant complications of dermal fillers (including vascular occlusion): consensus guidance and management principles. Aesthetic Surgery Journal / consensus statements (various authors, updated periodically).










