As the number of facial fillers approved by the FDA increases, it seems prudent to evaluate these fillers beyond anecdotal experience.  I often find that the only reason some patients have had a specific facial filler injected into the face is because their surgeon or dermatologist had an anecdotal preference for Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, or Radiesse.  I find this to be intriguing and have devoted much of my recent educational / academic time to reading some comprehensive blinded clinical studies evaluating the different facial fillers.

The point being made that more scientific evidence should guide our use of facial fillers leads me to an interesting clinical study that was conducted in Germany and Spain.  As we all know, Europe has really been ahead of the game in introducing and maximizing the potential of facial fillers and volumetric enhancement of the face. Case in point...

Drs. Moers-Carpi et. al. conducted a study evaluating the usefullness of Radiesse Calcium Hydroxyapatite to two other Hyaluronic acid fillers, namely Juvederm and Perlane for nasolabial fold enhancement.   The study was performed on 205 randomized patients who received either Radiesse or Juvederm 24 or Juvederm 24 HV or Perlane.  In the study, patients received a retreatment at 4 months and were then evaluated for 4, 8, and 12 months thereafter. 

On follow-up, patients who underwent the Calcium Hydroxyapatite fillers had higher rates of satisfaction and improvement in the nasolabial folds.  Moreso, the amounts of fillers required were significantly less to acheive satisfaction among patients undergoing Radiesse injection.

In my practice in Santa Monica and Los Angeles, I feel that it is imperative that I educate my patients with sound clinical advice that is based on clinical research.  I have used both the Hyaluronic acid fillers and the Radiesse fillers and have my preferences that are based on individual patient characteristics as well as the published medical research presented.  I would invite you to consult with me in my office to discuss your specific options and the right facial filler for your facial rejuvenation.  

Thank you,

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Reference: A Multicenter, Randomized Trial Comparing Calcium Hydroxyapatite to Two Hyaluronic Acids for Treatment of Nasolabial Folds.

Marion Moers-Carpi, MD; Stephan Vogt, MD; Begonia Martinez Santos, MD; Jorge Planas, MD; Sonia Rovir Vallve, MD; and David J. Howells, PhD, RRT.

Kare Plastic Surgery & Skin Health Clinic is dedicated to providing you with the most up to date information and techniques for facial fillers, such as Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, Sculptra, and Fat Augmentation.  Our office is located in Los Angeles and we provide comprehensive plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology services.