Sculptra vs. Radiesse
Collagen is a fibrous protein in the skin that provides structure and firmness for a youthful appearance. As we age, the skin naturally loses collagen, and the rate of collagen production slows, causing common signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, deep folds, skin laxity, and volume loss. This can be particularly apparent in the lower face, with deep creases forming around the nose and mouth, known as marionette lines and nasolabial folds. Luckily, there is a non-surgical solution to combat these distressing signs of the natural aging process: dermal fillers, which work to erase fine lines and wrinkles on the face and volume and restore lost volume. Dr. Green was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to incorporate Botox, Sculptra, Juvederm, and Restylane dermal fillers to replace lost volume loss in her private Upper East Side dermatology office.
Two of the most common types of dermal fillers available are Sculptra and Radiesse. The two fillers are similar because they are both FDA-approved to address severe nasolabial folds and marionette lines on the lower face. They are both collagen bio-stimulators, which trigger the body’s natural collagen production to rejuvenate the skin and reverse signs of aging. They differ in their formulation, with Radiesse being composed of the active ingredient calcium hydroxylapatite and Sculptra containing the active ingredient poly-L-lactic acid. Both are long-lasting and effective, with no downtime necessary following treatment. However, with so many different kinds of dermal fillers available on the market, it can be difficult to determine which will work best for you, which is why it is best to consult with an expert, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green, to help you create the treatment plan that will meet all of your aesthetic goals.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the world with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including dermal fillers, Botox, chemical peels, Microneedling, laser treatments, and more. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors consistently identify Dr. Green as one of NYC’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding rejuvenation procedures, customizing the treatment plans for each patient based on their specific concerns and overall aesthetic goals. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to achieve long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation results with essentially no downtime.
What is Radiesse?
Radiesse is an injectable dermal filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres. It is FDA-approved for correcting moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds, and for correcting facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) in people with HIV or age-related volume loss. CaHA is similar in composition to bones and teeth. Radiesse has a thick gel consistency, which provides immediate results once injected into the wrinkles and folds. Each injection with Radiesse begins the process of neocollagenesis, stimulating the ss own collagen growth. Over time, the gel is absorbed, and fibroblasts appear to build structural scaffolding for the skin. The natural-looking results of collagen boost from Radiesse injections are long-lasting and can last around one year after just one injection.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra, also known as Sculptra Aesthetic, is an injectable liquid dermal filler made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) used to correct facial contour deficiencies and facial wrinkles, as well as correct lipoatrophy in people with HIV. PLLA has been safely used in medical devices for 20 years, including dissolvable sutures and surgical implants. When Sculptra is injected, PLLA stimulates the ss own collagen production by inducing an inflammatory response. The body’s immune system recognizes the filler as a foreign body and creates fibroblasts to surround it, producing collagen in that area. Because Sculptra is biodegradable, the product is broken down and excreted by the body, allowing the skin to continue collagen synthesis to replenish volume and reduce signs of aging. Sculptra is also commonly used off-label for non-surgical body contouring, such as Sculptra Butt Lift and Sculptra Hip Dips. Sculptra injections typically require a series of treatments to achieve the best results. After the series of injections, the results of Sculptra can last up to two years.
What is the difference between Sculptra and Radiesse?
Both Sculptra and Radiesse are injectable fillers that improve signs of aging, like wrinkles, folds, and volume loss. Both active ingredients, calcium hydroxyapatite (Radiesse) and poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra), are collagen bio-stimulators. Once injected, both Radiesse and Sculptra stimulate the ss own collagen production to correct facial wrinkles, folds, sunken look, and age-related volume loss.
The main difference between Sculptra and Radiesse is their formulation, or main active ingredient, that acts as a collagen bio-stimulator and the mechanism in which each ingredient induces collagen production. Sculptra is made of poly-L-lactic acid or PLLA. Once Sculptra is injected, the immune system recognizes the filler as a foreign body and starts an inflammatory response. The body makes fibroblasts that surround the Sculptra filler, which produces collagen in the area to tighten and thicken the skin. On the other hand, Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxyapatite or CaHA. Radiesse works via a non-inflammatory response, in which calcium particles act as a scaffold for collagen production.
Collagen bio-stimulators do not produce immediate results because it takes time for collagen to build. The results of Sculptra, therefore, are visible around one month after the injections. However, an immediate improvement in volume is noticed with Radiesse injections because of the thicker, viscous gel consistency. Both Sculptra and Radiesse have long-lasting results with collagen production, and neither fillers are permanent. The results of Sculptra can last up to two years, while the results of Radiesse can last up to one year. It is important to note that the longevity of any dermal filler depends on a variety of factors, including the type of filler used and the patient’s metabolism. Both Sculptra and Radiesse results can be easily maintained with annual touch-up injections.
Both Sculptra and Radiesse dermal fillers are quick injection treatments that do not require any downtime or recovery. For both, the most common side effects include bruising and swelling, as they are expected with any type of injection. Sculptra, however, does require aftercare, like massaging the treated areas five times a day, for five minutes, for five days.
Can you use Sculptra and Radiesse together?
When looking to have a full liquid facelift, different kinds of fillers and other treatment options can be combined for total facial rejuvenation. As different kinds of fillers are all very effective, it is best to consult with an expert, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to determine which combination of injectable treatments will work best for you. With access to all of the best treatment options, Dr. Green easily provides patients with their desired aesthetic results. Dr. Green may use Radiesse to fill deep wrinkles along the nasolabial folds and marionette lines when performing a complete liquid facelift. In contrast, Sculptra can be a good option for filling in hollows in the cheeks and temples. Neither Sculptra nor Radiesse is the ideal dermal filler to use under the eyes or in the lips, so Dr. Green may turn to the Juvederm or Restylane family of fillers. Additional treatments, such as Botox or Thermage for skin tightening, are also available to address the appearance of dynamic wrinkles and tighten the skin respectively.
Which is better: Sculptra or Radiesse?
Sculptra and Radiesse are both highly effective treatments for filling in deep wrinkles on the face and body, and neither one is inherently better than the other; rather it is essential to determine which dermal filler will work best for you. The first step in determining whether Sculptra or Radiesse is the better treatment option is to consult with an experienced injector or expert in dermatology, such as Dr. Green. Dr. Green will assess the treatment area and discuss your treatment goals, then recommend whether Sculptra or Radiesse would be best for you. Both Radiesse and Sculptra are effective for use in deep facial wrinkles, such as the nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Radiesse can also be used to restore lost volume in the hands and improve skin texture in the neck, decolletage, arms, abdomen, and buttocks. Sculptra is also highly effective for injection into the jowls and jawline for facial contouring and in midface hollows. Patients seeking body contouring and augmentation for the hips and buttocks can also turn to Sculptra to achieve their ideal body shape.
Does Sculptra last longer than Radiesse?
Both Sculptra and Radiesse are long-lasting treatment options with effects that continue to improve over time due to their collagen bio-stimulator properties. Sculptra has been shown to last for longer than Radiesse, with the effects of the Sculptra treatment lasting for up to two years once the desired results have been achieved. Typically, to achieve the optimal results for Sculptra treatment, patients will need 3-4 treatment sessions spaced approximately 4-6 weeks apart. In comparison, Radiesse typically only lasts for up to one year. However, some patients have seen the effects of Radiesse for up to two years. Dr. Green typically recommends that patients receive a touch-up for both Sculptra and Radiesse approximately once to maintain the best results.
Should you use Radiesse or Sculptra?
The answer to whether you should choose Radiesse or Sculptra depends on various factors. Both Radiesse and Sculptra are long-lasting treatments that fill deep wrinkles on the lower face, restore lost volume, and boost collagen production at the injection site for rejuvenated, youthful-looking skin. As both Radiesse and Sculptra are collagen bio-stimulators, it will take several weeks before the full effects of both treatments are visible. However, Radiesse shows more immediate results due to the calcium microspheres found in the formulation. Neither treatment is inherently better than the other, and thus, Dr. Green will help patients determine which treatment is right for them.
What is the cost difference between Radiesse and Sculptra?
Radiesse and Sculptra are comparably priced, with Radiesse measuring the cost per syringe and Sculptra measuring the cost per vial. The total cost of each treatment will depend on several factors, including geographic location, the type of institution at which you receive treatment, and the size and scope of the treatment area. For example, patients receiving a complete liquid facelift will have an overall higher cost for treatment than patients receiving filler only in their lower face. The type of institution can also affect the price of the procedure. MedSpas often offers specials that will decrease the price overall. However, the risk of adverse side effects dramatically decreases if you seek treatment from an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Green.
Which filler is better for the face?
Both Sculptra and Radiesse are thick dermal fillers that are effective at filling in deep wrinkles on the lower face. Radiesse and Sculptra are both FDA-approved to fill in deep creases, such as the nasolabial folds (also known as smile lines) and the marionette lines, as well as contour the jawline. Sculptra is also used to fill in deep hollows, augmenting the cheekbones and reducing the gaunt appearance that can occur due to age and loss of collagen. After discussing your aesthetic goals at your initial consultation, Dr. Greedecideination about whether Radiesse or Sculptra would work better to meet your needs.
Restylane vs. Sculptra vs. Radiesse
While they are all injectable dermal fillers, the major difference between Restylane, Sculptra, and Radiesse is their formulation, and, consequently how they work to fill in fine lines and wrinkles and restore lost volume. Sculptra and Radiesse are formulated using poly-L-lactic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite, respectively. They work as collagen bio-stimulators, meaning they cause the body to increase collagen production at the injection site for results that continue to improve over time. The Restylane family of dermal fillers contains the active ingredient of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that hydrates the skin and provides volume to the treatment area. Many members of the Restylane portfolio work to address different areas of the face and body, formulated with gels of differing thicknesses. As such, unlike Sculptra and Radiesse, Restylane can be used for more delicate areas of the face, including under the eyes and in the lips.
Sculptra FAQs:
How Sculptra works
Sculptra works via the active ingredient poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), triggering the body’s natural collagen production to correct depressions and for enhanced, rejuvenated, youthful-looking skin. When the PLLA-formulated gel is injected into the treatment area, the body recognizes the filler as a foreign body, which triggers the immune system and causes collagen production to increase at the injection site. The increased collagen in the area leads to more volume and improved skin texture at the treatment site, which helps to fill in wrinkles and provides augmentation and body contouring. As Sculptra is a collagen bio-stimulator, taking advantage of the body’s natural collagen generation processes, it can take several treatment sessions and time for the full results to become visible. Typically, Dr. Green recommends scheduling three to four treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, with the full effects of the treatment becoming visible approximately six weeks after the final treatment session.
What are the advantages of Sculptra?
Sculptra is unique among the many dermal fillers, as it is one of the longest-lasting fillers available on the market. With most fillers, results begin to fade after 12-18 months. However, Sculptra has results that can last for up to 24 months. Additionally, while the full effects of the treatment cannot be observed immediately, they continue to improve over time as the body produces collagen to improve skin volume and texture. Another advantage of Sculptra is that with the filler’s thick gel, it can be used for full-body contouring, including in the buttocks and hips for a non-surgical butt lift and to fill in hip dips.
Where is Sculptra best used?
Sculptra is FDA-approved to fill in the deep wrinkles along the nose and mouth on the lower face and to add volume to the hollows of the cheeks. Additionally, Sculptra can be used to address sunken temples, facial jowls, forehead wrinkles, and along the jawline for contouring. Patients struggling with the appearance of depressed acne scars can also turn to Sculptra to fill in the depressions in the skin. Another effective use of Sculptra is for body contouring, and Dr. Green frequently employs Sculptra for use on the decolletage, hands, upper arms, sagging knees, and buttocks. As an alternative to the surgical Brazilian Butt Lift, Sculptra can augment the buttocks and contour the hips, erasing hip dips and helping patients achieve a perfect hourglass figure. With its collagen-producing qualities, Sculptra can be used to address the appearance of cellulite, crepey skin, scars, and stretch marks.
Does Sculptra work better for people with some skin sagging?
As we age, our body’s production of the structural proteins collagen and elastin naturally decreases. As a result, the skin becomes laxer, and sagging leads to fine lines and wrinkles across the face and body. While Sculptra works primarily to fill in deep wrinkles and restore volume loss to the treatment area, the filler also causes collagen production to increase, which leads to firmer, smoother skin and improved texture. For patients who are dealing with very high skin laxity, Dr. Green may recommend pairing Sculptra with Thermage laser treatment for skin tightening. Via the use of radiofrequency energy, Thermage laser treatment heats the inner layers of skin, triggering the increased production of collagen for tighter, smoother skin.
Is Sculptra better than fillers?
Sculptra Aesthetic is a type of dermal filler similar to Radiesse, Juvederm, and Restylane. Produced by the company Galderma, it is uniquely formulated with the biocompatible substance poly-L-lactic acid to provide long-lasting results that persist for up to two years. There are many advantages to Sculptra Aesthetic dermal filler, but it is not inherently better than other forms of dermal fillers. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, she can recommend the dermal filler that best meets your needs based on your aesthetic goals.
Radiesse FAQs:
How Radiesse works
Radiesse is a dermal filler composed of calcium hydroxyapatite that is FDA-approved to fill in fine lines and wrinkles in the lower face and replace lost volume in the hands. The treatment is a collagen bio-stimulator, meaning that the active ingredient triggers the body’s natural collagen production and works via a patented microsphere technology paired with the CaHA gel. Similarly to Sculptra, Radiesse effects continue to improve over time as collagen production increases in the body. However, unlike Sculptra, the effects of Radiesse injections can also be seen immediately, as the microspheres present in the gel add volume to the treatment area immediately. The microspheres also provide a sort of scaffolding for the new skin cells to grow around, producing youthful-looking results that improve over time.
Where is Radiesse best used?
Radiesse is FDA-approved for use on the deep wrinkles of the lower face, including the lines around the nose and mouth, such as the marionette lines and nasolabial folds. FDA approval for Radiesse also extends to using Radiesse on the hands to restore age-related volume loss. In addition to these areas, Radiesse can also be used for jawline and cheekbone contouring and can be used off-label to address loose, crepey skin on the neck, decolletage, arms, abdomen, and buttocks. When used for improving skin texture and reducing signs of scars, stretch marks, and cellulite, Radiesse is often diluted before being injected into the treatment area.
Who is a good candidate for Radiesse?
A good candidate for Radiesse treatment is a patient who is struggling with the appearance of deep wrinkles on the lower face, volume loss in the hands, and mild to moderate skin laxity on the neck, arms, abdomen, and buttocks. Radiesse is a safe and effective treatment and, though the gel is composed of synthetic materials, does not require an allergy test. Patients with a history of bleeding disorders or patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not undergo Radiesse treatment. Be sure to disclose your complete medical history to Dr. Green before beginning treatment so that she can ensure that the treatment is best for you.
What are the side effects of Radiesse?
Radiesse is a safe treatment with minimal and mild side effects without downtime. Like any injectable treatment, typical side effects of Radiesse include swelling, redness, irritation, and bruising at the injection site – mild side effects that should resolve themselves on their own within several days of receiving the treatment. Patients can reduce their risk of bruising by refraining from blood thinners such as aspirin or ibuprofen in the 48 hours leading up to the treatment. The risk of serious adverse events dramatically decreases when you seek an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. An inexperienced injector is at a higher risk of injecting the dermal filler into a blood vessel, which can lead to cellulitis, submucosal nodules, or necrosis (tissue death).
How to get in touch with Dr. Green and get started with Sculptra or Radiesse treatments today
Sculptra and Radiesse are injectable dermal fillers that can combat the signs of aging and provide natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation. As collagen and elastin levels in the skin naturally deplete over time, many signs of aging become more apparent, including age-related facial volume loss, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, loose jowls, and an undefined jawline, among others. Luckily, dermal fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse can help to reduce signs of aging, improve skin texture, and restore lost volume in the face, hands, neck, arms, abdomen, hips, and buttocks. To determine whether Sculptra vs. Radiesse injections are best suited to your needs and goals and guarantee the best results, it is always recommended to consult with an expert injector, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the world with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including Radiesse and Sculptra injections for rejuvenation. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors consistently identify Dr. Green as one of NYC’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding rejuvenation procedures, customizing the treatment plans for each patient based on their specific concerns and aesthetic goals. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to achieve long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation results with essentially no downtime. If you are interested in cosmetic rejuvenation with dermal fillers and want to learn more about injectables like Sculptra or Radiesse with expert injector Dr. Green, call the office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation.