Can Radiesse Filler Be Reversed? Here’s the Answer

Can Radiesse Be Dissolved Safely? Here’s What You Should Know

Quick Answer (TL;DR):

• Radiesse is a semi-permanent filler made of calcium hydroxylapatite.
• It cannot be easily dissolved like hyaluronic acid fillers (e.g., Juvederm).
• Options for managing unwanted results include time, massage, steroid injections, sodium thiosulfate, or in rare cases, surgical removal.
• Consult a qualified injector at Express Med Spa for tailored options based on your specific situation.

What Is Radiesse?

If you’re wondering can Radiesse be dissolved, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common concerns patients ask during consultations—especially when they want peace of mind before choosing a long-lasting filler.

Radiesse is a collagen-stimulating dermal filler that provides immediate volume and structural support. It is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier, designed to treat areas like nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and cheek augmentation.

When injected, it acts as a scaffold under the skin, restoring volume and encouraging natural collagen production for longer-lasting results. Radiesse is FDA-approved and commonly used for patients seeking to contour facial features while enjoying extended longevity compared to temporary fillers.

How Does Radiesse Work?

Upon injection, Radiesse:

• Instantly fills facial wrinkles and adds volume
• Gradually stimulates collagen, improving skin elasticity
• Lasts up to 12-18 months or longer

However, unlike fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane, Radiesse does not respond to hyaluronidase, an enzyme used to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers.

Can Radiesse Be Dissolved or Reversed?

Not easily. Radiesse is not reversible in the same way as HA fillers. There is no enzyme equivalent to hyaluronidase for CaHA. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, which can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, Radiesse requires alternative approaches. If you’re deciding between these two options, visit our Radiesse vs Juvederm comparison to see which may better fit your aesthetic goals.

Some practitioners suggest using sodium thiosulfate to manage Radiesse complications, but its effectiveness varies. For patients experiencing dissatisfaction or complications, professional intervention is crucial.

Comparing Filler Types: Where Radiesse Fits

Radiesse falls into the semi-permanent category, meaning it eventually breaks down but cannot be instantly reversed. For a more detailed overview of FDA-approved dermal fillers, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons resource on dermal fillers.

Why Do People Want to Dissolve Radiesse?

Some patients initially choose Radiesse for facial volume but later realize a different filler may have been more appropriate—especially in sensitive areas like the lips. If you’re exploring safer, more reversible alternatives, learn more about our lip injections designed for precision and flexibility.

Real patient concerns include:

• “I got too much Radiesse and now my cheeks look puffy.“
• “I have lumps under my skin after Radiesse.“
• “Can I undo this filler if I don’t like the result?“

Common reasons for removal include:

• Overfilling or poor technique
• Irregularities or nodules
• Aesthetic mismatch with facial features
• Side effects like bruising or discomfort

Methods to Manage or Dissolve Radiesse

1. Wait It Out

Radiesse naturally metabolizes over time, usually within 12-18 months. This is the safest option, especially for mild dissatisfaction.

2. Massage the Area

Gentle massage may redistribute filler if lumps or asymmetries occur. Always consult your injector before attempting.

3. Steroid Injections

If inflammatory nodules or granulomas form, a provider may inject corticosteroids to reduce swelling.

4. Sodium Thiosulfate Injections

Some practitioners may use sodium thiosulfate to partially break down CaHA, although results vary and research is limited.

5. Radiofrequency (RF) or Ultrasound

In some cases, radiofrequency treatments or ultrasound may be paired with collagen stimulation techniques. For example, PDO threads and facial sculpting can restore facial balance without relying on dissolvable fillers. Emerging technologies like Ultherapy or radiofrequency microneedling may assist with faster breakdown, but results are anecdotal.

6. Surgical Excision

Reserved for severe complications, surgical removal of Radiesse is possible but rare.

If you’re unsure how to proceed, our medical spa in Chicago’s Mount Greenwood neighborhood offers in-person consultations to help assess filler outcomes and recommend solutions tailored to your goals. Our providers in La Grange, Frankfort, Shorewood, and Chicago can evaluate your case.

Real Talk: Patient FAQs

Potential Side Effects of Radiesse Reversal Attempts

• Local swelling or tenderness
• Inflammatory nodules
• Inconsistent results from sodium thiosulfate
• Rare allergic reactions (from steroid or reversal agents)

Always have your treatments performed or adjusted by a licensed, board-certified injector.

Final Thoughts

Radiesse is a powerful filler offering sculpted, collagen-rich results, but it requires careful patient selection and injector skill. If you are unhappy with your Radiesse treatment, our team at Express Med Spa can help you determine the best next step.

Want expert insight? Book a consultation with a provider near you: Contact Express Med Spa

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