If you prefer a needle to a knife, then modern injectibles are for you. Botox and collagen are still the non-invasive plastic surgery of choice, but they require regular trips to the doctor’s office. Injectibles are just as effective but last longer.

Restylane and Radiesse have been around since the mid-1990’s. They are special derma fillers that are injected into targeted areas of the face and body filling in lines where fat has dissipated. The FDA approves both products in the United States as safe cosmetic fillers. The treatments are quick, effective and long lasting. After a 30-minute appointment in the doctor’s office, patients can expect to resume their normal activities almost immediately.

Restylane

Restylane has been in use since 1996 and is currently the most requested filler available. It’s used primarily to correct thin lines around the mouth and forehead. It restores fullness in the face by correcting moderate to severe wrinkles. Restylane is also effective in transforming thin lips into a full, voluptuous smile. The treatment can last as long as 6 to 12 months and costs less than other popular injectibles such as Radiesse.

An advantage of Restylane over collagen is that it’s made up of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that already exists in the human body. The crystal-clear gel is biodegradable and has no animal based hyaluronic acid, which eliminates all risk of animal disease transmission and allergic reactions. Many bovine collagen patients have switched over to Restylane because of the allergic reactions suffered from the animal by-products found in collagen.

Radiesse

Similar to Restylane, Radiesse smooths out deep creases and folds around the nose and mouth areas improving facial contours. Radiesse, previously known as "Radiance", can also be used for lip augmentation to enhance the lip line.

Radiesse resembles Restylane in that it’s made up of hypo-allergenic and biocompatible materials that are easily and safely reabsorbed into the body. Although this filler is more expensive, Radiesse regulars prefer it because it’s more cost-effective in the long run. The average treatment lasts over 2 years – nearly twice as long as Restylane. It also helps to stimulate healthy new collagen under the skin prolonging a smooth silk look.

Along with its aesthetic uses, Radiesse offers other medical benefits for patients needing greater reconstruction. Radiesse’s components of calcium hdyroxyapatate microspheres make a perfect potion for prosthetic replacements for dental and facial implants. It’s also effective in treating vocal chord and masillofacial defects and addresses facial wasting problems with HIV patients.

Side Effects

As with any medical or cosmetic treatment, a patient can expect some discomfort and other mild side effects after the injections such as bruising or swelling. Patients should take a little extra care allowing muscles to rest from a few hours or a few days. Be sure to consult with your doctor to get advice on your best treatment choice and most effective recovery plan.