What is Radiesse and how is it different?
Radiesse is made of tiny calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel. The gel gives an immediate lift where it is placed; over the following weeks it is absorbed, while the microspheres act as a scaffold that prompts the skin to lay down new collagen. The microspheres themselves are gradually broken down by the body.
This dual action is why doctors use it in two quite different ways:
- Undiluted — for structure along the cheekbone, jawline or chin, where firmer support is useful.
- Diluted (hyperdilute) — spread thinly to improve firmness and crepiness in the lower face or neck, more like a collagen stimulator than a filler.
One important difference from hyaluronic acid filler: Radiesse cannot be dissolved with an enzyme. That is why we do not use it in the lips or under the eyes, and why careful planning matters. For delicate areas, an under-eye filler made of hyaluronic acid is the usual choice.
Radiesse compared with other volume treatments
Each of these treatments restores support in a different way. The doctor will recommend the one that fits your anatomy and how quickly you want to see change:
| Treatment | Type | Typical use | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiesse | Calcium hydroxylapatite | Contour support, firmer skin | ₩950,000 |
| Hyaluronic acid filler | Reversible HA gel | Folds, lips, chin, under-eyes | ₩180,000 |
| Sculptra | Poly-L-lactic acid | Gradual, broad volume restoration | ₩500,000 |
| Juvelook Volume | PDLLA + HA | Gentle volume and collagen | ₩300,000 |
| Laetigen | Collagen stimulator | Elasticity, early laxity | ₩500,000 |
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. Radiesse is ₩950,000 per syringe, ₩1,800,000 for two, with a first-visit price of ₩699,000 for one syringe. See the Radiesse price page.
Where it fits in a plan
Radiesse is often combined with energy-based lifting such as Thermage. For lines around the mouth, see how we approach nasolabial folds — Radiesse is one option there, but not always the first.
What changes after Radiesse
You see some support immediately, then skin tends to feel firmer over 2–3 months as collagen builds. Results often last around a year or longer. If loose skin remains along the jawline, the doctor may add a lifting device such as Ultherapy.
How a Radiesse visit works
- Facial assessment The doctor looks at bone structure, fat loss and skin laxity, and decides between structural or diluted use.
- Numbing Numbing cream for about 30 minutes; Radiesse is usually mixed with lidocaine for comfort.
- Injection Placed by needle or cannula in planned points, typically 30–45 minutes.
- Check & aftercare Symmetry check, cooling, and written aftercare; the doctor tells you whether light massage is needed.
On a short trip, have Radiesse at least a few days before any event. Because collagen builds over months, you will see the support straight away and the firmness later — a good reason to take a photo before treatment to compare.
Downtime, side effects and who should avoid it
- Common: swelling, redness, tenderness and bruising for 3–7 days; a firm feel at injection points that softens.
- Less common: palpable lumps or nodules, more likely in thin-skinned areas; most soften with time, some need treatment.
- Rare: infection, allergic reaction or blood-vessel occlusion. Because Radiesse cannot be dissolved, any concern should be reported to us immediately.
Who should not have it, or should tell the doctor
Radiesse is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in people with active skin infection in the area, or with a tendency to keloid scarring. Tell the doctor about autoimmune conditions, blood thinners, allergies (including to lidocaine), and any previous fillers or threads in the same place.
Aftercare
Avoid saunas, alcohol and intense exercise for 2–3 days, sleep on your back the first night if possible, and follow the doctor's instructions on massage.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every radiesse plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Radiesse FAQ
How much does Radiesse cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, Radiesse is ₩950,000 for 1 syringe and ₩1,800,000 for 2 syringes, with a first-visit price of ₩699,000 for 1 syringe, VAT excluded. See the Radiesse price page.
How long does Radiesse last?
Results often last around 12 months or more, depending on the area treated, the dose and your metabolism.
Can Radiesse be dissolved?
No. Unlike hyaluronic acid filler, Radiesse cannot be dissolved with an enzyme, which is why we avoid lips and under-eyes and plan doses carefully.
Is Radiesse a collagen stimulator or a filler?
Both. It gives immediate support where it is placed and stimulates collagen over the following months. Diluted, it is used mainly to improve skin firmness.
Does Radiesse hurt?
Numbing cream is applied and the product is usually mixed with lidocaine, so most people describe pressure and mild stinging.













