Belotero or Radiesse? What's the difference?
As most patients will know, there are a variety of different dermal fillers available on the market. At Woodlands, two of our most popular dermal filler products are Belotero and Radiesse. We are often asked by patients, particularly those who are new to aesthetic treatments, which dermal filler they should “go for”. Of course, this is something that must be discussed in detail with your practitioner, and will depend on a number of factors, including the area that’s being treated, the results you wish to achieve and your budget. Even so, we know that some patients like to attend their appointments with a bit more knowledge about the products available to them, so we thought we’d give you a bit of an explanation into the differences between these two dermal fillers.
Belotero is a Hyaluronic Acid (HA) dermal filler, which is the most commonly used type of filler. HA is a substance that exists naturally in the skin and helps to keep it firm and plump. As we age, our stores of HA deplete, which is why our skin loses some of its plumpness and starts to sag. Belotero gives an immediate plumping or “filling” effect when injected into the skin, and also helps to replenish the skin’s natural HA.
Belotero has been formulated to integrate seamlessly into the tissue so as to give natural-looking, subtle results. There is a full “family” of Belotero products, each formulated slightly differently depending on the area or indication they are intended for. Belotero products can be used to smooth superficial to moderate lines and wrinkles, enhance the lips and restore volume to the face. Results are long-lasting and, as the product contains HA, which is naturally found in the skin anyway, it is considered a very safe dermal filler, which doesn’t require an allergy test prior to treatment.
Radiesse is a collagen stimulator. Unlike Belotero, which contains HA, Radiesse contains microspheres of Calcium Hydroxylapetite (CaHA), which are suspended in a soft gel matrix. When Radiesse is injected into the skin, the product itself gives an immediate, visible lift to the skin, however the microspheres continue to work by stimulating the skin to produce more collagen. Over time, the microspheres are metabolised by the body, however, the new collagen remains, having formed a “net” around the microspheres. The new collagen then provides a long-term effect that can last up to a year or more. Radiesse is particularly effective at lifting and tightening the skin and can be used to treat areas of the face that are prone to sagging, such as the jawline and cheeks. It can also be used to smooth more severe lines and wrinkles.
Radiesse has been on the market for over 10 years and more than 200 clinical studies have been conducted during this time. It is a popular and safe product boasting high patient satisfaction around the world. Like Belotero, it contains biocompatible materials, meaning there is no need to have an allergy test. It is also the only dermal filler to be approved by the FDA for use in both the face and the hands.
If you would like to book a FREE consultation to discuss treatment with Belotero, Radiesse, or any other aesthetic treatment, give us a call on 0151 728 2536.
