RADIESSE®
Rebuild structure. Smooth lines. Restore youthful contour.
What is Radiesse®?
Radiesse® is a collagen-stimulating injectable made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a smooth gel.
It works beneath the skin to restore lost volume while encouraging new collagen and elastin production. The result is firmer, smoother skin with improved structure and natural definition.
Over time, the gel is absorbed and replaced by your body’s own collagen network, leaving long-lasting support and lift behind.
Radiesse® is often chosen for areas that benefit from deeper structural rejuvenation such as the cheeks, jawline, and lower face where firmness and contour are key to a refreshed appearance.
How Does Radiesse® Work®?
Radiesse® works in two phases to rejuvenate the skin from within. Initially, depending on whether it is used as a structural filler or dliuted as a skinbooster, the calcium-based gel can provide immediate contour and/or stimulate the skin cells to regenerate.
As the gel integrates, the CaHA microspheres begin stimulating fibroblasts - the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production, helping rebuild the skin’s underlying framework.
Because Radiesse® is made from calcium-based microspheres rather than hyaluronic acid, it cannot be dissolved once injected. Instead, it is gradually broken down and metabolised by the body as your own collagen network forms and replaces the original structure.
This is why we begin every treatment with a thorough consultation to ensure Radiesse® is the right fit for your skin, facial structure, and goals.
This natural collagen response continues to reinforce the skin long after treatment, improving tone, elasticity, and overall texture.
Results appear instantly if used as a filler, with more gradual skin changes occuring over the coming months as the Radiesse® dissolves. Most people enjoy a visibly lifted, firmer, more glowy look that can last up to 18 months or longer, depending on the treatment area and individual collagen response.
Most Common Radiesse® Treatment Areas
Chin and Jawline Definition
Contours and sculpts the lower face, improving structure and symmetry, with subsequent improvement in skin quality over the coming months.
Cheeks and Mid-Face Volume Loss
Restores volume and lifts hollow or flattened areas, often used for non-surgical cheek enhancement with subsequent improvement in skin quality over the coming months.
Lateral face and Hands as a Skinbooster
Stimulates skin cells to regenerate and make collagen, leading to tighter, glowing skin.
The Next Step Beyond Dermal Fillers
Radiesse® belongs to a new class of injectable treatments known as biostimulators. These advanced injectables do more than simply fill. They help your skin regenerate from within. While traditional dermal fillers add instant volume to smooth lines and shape the face, Radiesse® works by stimulating natural collagen and elastin production, rebuilding the skin’s underlying structure for lasting firmness and resilience.
For those comparing Radiesse® with traditional fillers, the key difference lies in longevity and texture. Fillers provide quick, precise volume, perfect for contouring or refining features. Radiesse® can deliver both immediate lift and long-term skin improvement, actively enhancing tone and strength for 18 months.
Compared with Sculptra®, which works gradually through a series of treatments to build collagen over time, Radiesse® can provide an instant visible lift (if used as a filler), whilst still stimulating collagen for the months ahead. Many patients appreciate the dual effect of seeing a result straight away while also gaining firmer, smoother skin over time.
While the treatment may cost more upfront (see prices here), the long-term improvement in skin quality often means fewer maintenance treatments over time, making Radiesse® a smart, lasting investment for smoother, firmer, more resilient skin.
Step-By-Step: Your Radiesse® Treatment
at ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine
Before Your Treatment: How to Prepare
The following are general preparation guidelines commonly recommended before Radiesse® treatment. Your individual situation may vary, and you should always follow personalised advice provided during your initial consultation.
1. Please avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatories) for 24 hours before treatment to minimise bruising and swelling. If you take prescribed medications, these will be discussed during your initial consultation. Do not stop any prescribed medications unless advised by your prescribing doctor.
2. Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, your skin will also be cleansed before treatment. Arriving make-up free helps ensure a clean canvas and minimises the risk of infection.
3. Avoid facials, chemical peels, laser treatments, hair removal and microdermabrasion for at least one week beforehand and one week after. Active skincare ingredients such as retinoids (vitamin A/retinol), AHAs, and exfoliants are typically paused for at least three to five days beforehand, as these can increase skin sensitivity.
4. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment to support healthy, hydrated skin.
5. If you have any active skin infections, cold sores, allergies or other concerns, please let us know before your appointment so these can be discussed and managed appropriately.
6. Schedule your treatment at least two weeks before any important events to allow time for settling and optimal results. Also please ensure you remain in Auckland for one week after your treatment, to ensure any complications can be swiftly treated.
7. Try to avoid flying overseas four weeks after your treatment ensure no unwanted swelling occurs due to in-flight pressure treatments.
8. If you feel unwell, have dental work or vaccinations in two to four weeks prior to your treatment, please let us know as we may need to re-schedule your treatment. Dermal filler must only be injected when someone does not have an active immune system, to avoid complications such as granulomas or nodules.
During Your Radiesse® Treatment
1. Radiesse® treatments typically take one hour.
2. Each treatment involves a series of precise injections with a needle and/or cannula, targeting specific areas of concern. Your tissues will respond immediately to Radiesse® if it is used as a filler, so I always get you to look in the mirror so you can see how it is changing and feel comfortable throughout your treatment. Skin results take time to appear in the coming months as the skin is regenerated.
3. Some people may experience slight pain or a pinching sensation at the injection sites, but it is generally well-tolerated. Topical numbing agent can be used to assist with comfort. I can also inject local anaesthetic prior to injections and supply distraction devices if required. A local anaesthetic is mixed into the product, and we use cannulas to keep the procedure comfortable and safe.
Immediately After Treatment: What You’ll Notice
1. Immediately after your Radiesse® treatment you may notice some mild swelling, tenderness, or redness around the injection sites. These effects are completely normal and usually settle within a few hours, up to a few days.
2. Bruising can occasionally occur, depending on the area treated and individual skin sensitivity, but we take every precaution to minimise this risk.
3. It is common to experience small areas of firmness initially as the filler begins to integrate naturally with your tissues over the following four to six weeks.
4. We provide you with clear aftercare instructions with a contact phone number and can recommend tailored skincare products to support your healing if desired. We also schedule a complimentary follow-up four to six weeks after your treatment to review your progress, answer any questions, and ensure you are happy with your results.
When Radiesse® Results Start to Show
1. You will start to see the benefits of your Radiesse® treatment immediately, with further improvement over the next four to six weeks as any swelling settles and your skin’s structure begins to respond to the calcium-based gel. The result is a firmer, more lifted appearance with enhanced facial definition.
2. Radiesse® results typically last 12 to 18 months, depending on the area treated, the amount used, and how quickly your body metabolises the product. Because Radiesse® also stimulates natural collagen production, many people notice longer-term improvement in skin quality beyond the initial volumising effect.
Radiesse® Cost
Each Radiesse® treatment at ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine is $1,200 per session. This includes treatment of one area (e.g. jawline or skin treatment). Additional areas or higher product volume may require more sessions and cost accordingly.
If you would like to discuss costs or explore your options, book in an initial consultation today.
Radiesse® results will vary depending on your natural facial structure, how your skin responds to collagen stimulation, and the area being treated. The goal is always subtle, natural-looking improvement - not overfilling.
Every Radiesse® treatment at ALLOR is individually planned to enhance your features while supporting long-term skin rejubenation. We aim to deliver results that feel like you, just refreshed and more confident.
We invite you to book a consultation at ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine in Auckland to discuss whether Radiesse® is right for you. Our clinic is located in Whenuapai, and we welcome clients from across Auckland including the North Shore, central suburbs, west suburbs and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I see results from Radiesse®?
Radiesse® provides immediate volume after injection if used as a filler, so you’ll notice a visible improvement right away. Over the following weeks, the calcium-based microspheres stimulate your body’s own collagen production, enhancing skin firmness and structure over time.
How long does Radiesse® last?
Results from Radiesse® typically last 12 to 18 months, depending on the area treated, your skin’s condition, and your natural collagen response. Touch-up treatments can help maintain the effect.
What areas can Radiesse® treat?
Radiesse® is commonly used to restore volume in the jawline and cheeks. It can also be diluted to improve skin quality in areas such as the neck and hands - helping to stimulate collagen and firm the skin over time.
How many Radiesse® treatments will I need?
Many clients see excellent results from a single session. However, depending on your goals and collagen response, a second treatment may be recommended after several months to enhance longevity.
Is Radiesse® safe?
Yes. Radiesse® is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a substance naturally found in the body. It has a strong safety record, is non-toxic, and is Medsafe-approved for use in New Zealand.
Can Radiesse® be dissolved?
No, Radiesse® cannot be dissolved like hyaluronic acid fillers. However, it is gradually metabolised and absorbed by the body over time. This makes precise placement by an experienced cosmetic doctor essential.
Does Radiesse® hurt?
Discomfort is minimal. A local anaesthetic is typically mixed into the product, and we use cannulas to keep the procedure comfortable. You may feel mild pressure or tenderness during and shortly after treatment.
Can Radiesse® be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Radiesse® can be safely combined with anti-wrinkle injections, hyaluronic acid fillers, skin boosters, or bio-stimulators like Sculptra® for a full-face regenerative plan, however there will need to be a stand down period between hyaluronic acid fillers and Sculptra® to ensure safety.
Are there any side effects with Radiesse®?
Mild swelling, redness or firmness can occur and usually settle in a few days. Rarely, Radiesse® entering a blood vessel can cause serious complications, including vascular occlusion. This is why it’s essential to be treated by a trained and experienced cosmetic doctor who understands facial anatomy and advanced safety techniques, so complications are treated swiftly and effectively.
What makes Radiesse® different from other dermal fillers?
Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that simply add volume, Radiesse® also stimulates collagen for structural improvement beneath the skin. It can act as both a filler and a bio-stimulator, making it ideal for clients who want both immediate lift and long-term skin strengthening.
Written by Dr. Heather Anderson, MBChB, BSc, FRNZCUC, PGDip Cosmetic Medicine, NZSCM | ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine, Auckland
Reviewed and updated: June 2026
Radiesse® Medical Device Class III. Lidocaine injectable implant is indicated for plastic/reconstructive procedures in adults, including deep dermal and subdermal soft tissue augmentation of the facial area and is also intended for restoration and correction of fat or volume loss (lipoatrophy) in the facial area and for rejuvenation of the hands. Radiesse® has risks and benefits. Contains Calcium Hydroxylapatite. Ask your doctor if Radiesse® is right for you. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Merz, Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.
Sculptra® Medical Device Class III, to increase volume of depressed areas, particularly to correct skin depressions. Sculptra® has risks and benefits. Contains Poly-L-Lactic acid implant suspension. Ask your doctor if Sculptra® is right for you. For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier. Click for further details. Galderma Australia Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.
Dermal Filler, Medical Device Class III to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, correct facial atrophic scars, restore or enhance the lips or restore facial volume. Dermal filler has risk and benefits. Ask your doctor if dermal filler is right for you. For product information check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier.