Wrinkles and fine lines can easily be managed with today’s range of dermal fillers that offer lasting results, and these injectable can be used on different parts of the face to create a smoother appearance. 

Since most treatments can be performed in less than an hour, dermal fillers have become a popular choice for anyone who wants an alternative to surgery or other facial enhancement procedures - all without frequent visits to the doctor’s office.  

Both Radiesse and SilSkin are available at cosmetic surgery centers across the country and can offer lasting benefits for aging skin. If you’re considering either of these injectable fillers, this snapshot of side effects and average costs can help you make the right decision:  

Radiesse for Youthful Skin  

Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) was approved by the FDA in December 2006; this dermal filler can also be used to create fullness and improve any sunken areas of the face.   

What It Can Do: Radiesse is primarily used to correct facial wrinkles, define contours on the face and eliminate skin folds. It can also be used to correct fine lines around the mouth and eyes, and offers immediate results. Since this procedure can be performed in under 45 minutes, it has become a popular lunch hour treatment; it also offers results of one year or more.  

Average Costs: The average cost of treatment in the U.S. is $850+ per syringe in 2008.  

Common Side Effects: Radiesse has been deemed a safe and effective dermal filler treatment with minimal side effects. Common side effects of Radiesse include light bruising, tenderness, swelling and redness.  

SilSkin for Youthful Skin  

SilSkin is pending FDA approval, but is still available at many cosmetic surgery centers across the country. The formula is actually a silicone oil and may provide dramatic results after just one treatment.  

What It Can Do: SilSkin can be used to enhance the contours of the face, improve hollowed skin patches under the eyes, remove laugh lines and add fullness to the face. The oil is a permanent solution for facial augmentation and may offer several benefits for those who are allergic or sensitive to conventional filler ingredients.  

Average Costs: SilSkin injections range in price from $1,000 to $1,500 per cc according to BeautySurg.com. This can vary depending on the location of the doctor or treatment center.  

Common Side Effects: While SilSkin is still undergoing clinical trials and investigation, one of the biggest drawbacks is its permanency. The SilSkin injectable cannot be removed once it is in the skin, and can migrate to different areas of the skin after a period of time.  Side effects may also include swelling, slight bruising and redness immediately after treatment.  

Both Radiesse and SilSkin offer several benefits for aging skin, but do present some side effects.  Whether you need to improve the contours of your face, reduce fine lines and wrinkles or build up soft tissue around hollowed areas, both synthetic fillers can offer lasting results. Consulting with a cosmetic surgeon in your area will help you determine which injectable filler is appropriate for your skin type and health history so you can make the most of your treatment and enjoy lasting results.