Choosing the right dermal filler for treatment can be a tough decision for both patient and practitioner alike. Doctors need to keep abreast of the ever-changing landscape of fillers, so as to best advise their patients to achieve their desired aesthetic goals. Beyond this, patients often prefer to do their own research before their treatment. To help with this, we take an in-depth look at two popular dermal fillers, Juvederm and Radiesse, to see how they compare to each other.
Why do doctors choose Juvederm?
Juvederm is a popular line of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. While used primarily as a wrinkle filler, this versatile family of treatment also contains formulations suitable for many other aesthetic indications, including lip augmentation, lifting the cheeks, and treating acne scars. Made of non-animal derived hyaluronic acid that has been chemically modified for stabilization, Juvederm’s products are non-immunogenic, biocompatible, and resorbable. These injectables are made with either Hylacross or Vycross Technology, with both producing malleable, smooth, and cohesive gels. As one of the best-selling brands on the market, Juvederm is renowned for producing natural-looking results that are long-lasting—with some products able to last up to two years in some cases—and leave most patients highly satisfied.
Why do doctors choose Radiesse?
Radiesse was first used, to great effect, for treating HIV-positive patients for the loss of facial fat (lipoatrophy). In 2006, Radiesse was approved by the United States FDA for aesthetic use, and in 2015, it was approved for hand rejuvenation. Made of smooth microparticles that are composed of a mineral commonly found in human bone and teeth, Radiesse is inert and non-antigenic.
Radiesse collection does not just offer collagen biostimulation benefits. Its immediate and substantive volumizing effect is conferred through its remarkable physical characteristics. Indeed, Radiesse has high viscosity and elasticity and has optimal cohesivity for providing the needed degree of lift and volume. The beneficial coupling of these characteristics makes Radiesse a unique and versatile filler able to treat patients at all stages of the aging process.
Which is better, Juvederm or Radiesse?
While both dermal fillers are efficacious and safe, it is important to note that they may not produce the same results in all cases. The choice of filler will determine the success of treatment and is dependent on the condition and area being treated. In general, Radiesse has much longer-lasting results, but it is not suitable for all areas—especially in areas with thin skin, such as the tear troughs and lips, due to the risk of nodule formation in these areas. Juvederm is recommended for patients seeking dermal filler treatments for the first time due to the filler’s reversibility and duration of action.
Another matter to keep in mind is the reversibility of results. The effects of a Juvederm treatment are easily reversible if needed, either because of poor results or a medical emergency or other reason, through the use of hyaluronidase injections. However, the same cannot be said for Radiesse: its effects are not reversible. This means that in the case of unsatisfactory results, the only option is to wait for the effects to wear off.
Conclusion
Injectable dermal fillers have revolutionized the way aesthetic doctors treat facial signs of aging, making it much more accessible and convenient for patients to correct their lines and facial volume loss. Radiesse and Juvederm are dermal fillers that are highly efficacious and safe, but each will provide different results depending on the application.
Radiesse and Juvederm differ in terms of composition, physical characteristics, longevity of results, and mode of action. For patients considering between Juvederm and Radiesse, it is essential that they consult a board-certified doctor before deciding on a treatment.
