Also known as: CaHA, calcium hydroxyapatite, Radiesse
What is calcium hydroxylapatite?
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is the mineral found in human bone and teeth. In Radiesse it is suspended as microspheres of 25 to 45 micrometres in a gel carrier. The spheres break down to calcium and phosphate ions which the body absorbs through normal bone turnover.
How it works in treatment
CaHA is a biostimulator. The gel carrier provides immediate volume. The microspheres signal fibroblasts to lay down type I and III collagen over several months. Results last 12 to 18 months. Hyperdiluted CaHA is the product diluted for superficial application, mainly on neck, décolletage, and hands.
Where it is used
At Dibélle, CaHA is used primarily for the jawline and cheekbone definition where a firmer structure than hyaluronic acid gives better projection. Diluted, it is used for skin tightening on the neck and hands.
Results and safety
The initial volume from the gel carrier fades after 4 to 6 weeks as it absorbs, then collagen production takes over. CaHA is not injected into lips because of the risk of nodules. It cannot be dissolved like hyaluronic acid. Correct placement, deep subdermal or against periosteum, is critical. Choose an injector with specific CaHA experience.
Common questions about Calcium Hydroxylapatite
- How long does CaHA treatment last?
- Results last 12 to 18 months. The initial volume from the gel carrier fades after 4 to 6 weeks, but by then the biostimulating effect has taken over and collagen build-up continues throughout the treatment period.
- Can CaHA be dissolved?
- No. Unlike hyaluronic acid filler, CaHA cannot be dissolved with enzymes. The substance breaks down naturally over 12 to 18 months. This makes the injector's precision particularly important.
- Is CaHA used in the lips?
- No. CaHA is not injected into lips because of the risk of nodules. For lips we use cross-linked hyaluronic acid, which has better flow properties in thin tissue.
- What is hyperdiluted CaHA?
- Hyperdiluted CaHA is the product diluted with saline or lidocaine for superficial injection. Used on the neck, décolletage, and hands when skin tightening is wanted without structural volume.