At Central CosMedic, Dr Danielle Waxman offers Radiesse+ treatment for patients across Havelock North, Hastings, Napier and the wider Hawke’s Bay. Radiesse+ can restore lost volume and definition, and in a diluted form it can improve the firmness and quality of the skin on the face and body.
Radiesse+ works in two ways. It gives a visible lift as soon as it is placed, and it also encourages your skin to make more of its own collagen over the following months. This page explains how it works, which areas it can treat and what to expect.
Radiesse+ is an injectable made from tiny calcium-based microspheres, called calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), suspended in a smooth gel. Calcium hydroxylapatite is similar to a mineral found naturally in the body. Radiesse+ also contains a local anaesthetic to make treatment more comfortable.
Once injected, the gel provides immediate support and lift. Over time the gel is gradually absorbed and the microspheres act as a framework that prompts your body to build new collagen. The microspheres are then broken down naturally, leaving behind your own collagen.
Used undiluted to lift and define areas that have lost structure with age, giving a stronger result than most skin treatments.
Radiesse+ mixed with saline and spread in a fine layer under the skin. Rather than adding volume, this helps to firm and thicken skin that has become thin or crepey.

This image shows the appearance before and immediately after Radiesse+ Treatment. Individual results and recovery vary.
Radiesse+ is only recommended after a consultation, and only if it is the right choice for your goals.
Dr Waxman talks with you about what you would like to change, your medical history and any previous treatments.
She assesses your facial structure or the skin on the area of concern, and explains whether Radiesse+, hyperdiluted Radiesse or another option such as dermal fillers or a different collagen stimulator may suit you better.
You will hear the potential benefits, risks and side effects in plain terms, along with the costs, before you decide anything.
If you go ahead, you agree a plan together, including the areas to treat, the number of sessions and a review appointment.
Treatment usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes. Radiesse+ contains a local anaesthetic, and numbing cream can also be used, so most people find it comfortable. It is injected with a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, depending on the area.
You will see some lift straight away, and the result continues to improve over the following weeks as new collagen forms. Results often last around 12 to 18 months, depending on the area treated, your skin and your lifestyle. Hyperdiluted treatments are usually given as a course of one to three sessions, spaced several weeks apart.
Common side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness and small lumps at the injection sites. These usually settle within a few days to a week. You should avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and massaging the area for a short time afterwards, unless Dr Waxman advises otherwise.
Less commonly, more serious problems can occur, such as infection, firm nodules or, rarely, a blocked blood vessel, which needs urgent treatment. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, Radiesse+ cannot be dissolved, which is one reason it is not used in some areas such as the lips. Dr Waxman will review your health history and talk through the risks so you can make an informed decision. If you notice severe pain, skin colour changes or any concerns after treatment, contact the clinic straight away.
ASK YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL IF RADIESSE® IS RIGHT FOR YOU. Radiesse® injectable implant is intended for plastic and reconstructive surgery, including deep dermal and sub-dermal soft tissue augmentation of the facial area and dorsum of the hands. Radiesse® injectable implant is indicated for: the treatment of nasolabial folds, marionette lines or jawline; the augmentation of cheeks; the hand augmentation to correct volume loss in the dorsum of the hands; and the restoration and/or correction of the signs of facial fat loss (lipoatrophy) in people with human immunodeficiency virus. Radiesse® (+) Lidocaine injectable implant is intended for plastic and reconstructive surgery, including deep dermal and sub-dermal soft tissue augmentation of the facial area and dorsum of the hands in adults. Radiesse® (+) Lidocaine injectable implant is indicated for: the treatment of nasolabial folds, marionette lines and jawline; the augmentation of cheeks; hand augmentation to correct volume loss in the dorsum of the hands; the restoration and/or correction of the signs of fat or volume loss (lipoatrophy) in the facial area and for rejuvenation of the hands fat loss (lipoatrophy) in people with human immunodeficiency virus. You should tell your practitioner and avoid treatment with Radiesse®/Radiesse® (+) Lidocaine if you: have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients or have severe allergies including anaphylaxis; if you tend to develop keloids or heavy scars; have any bleeding disorders, poor wound healing; inflamed or infected skin; are under the age of 18; are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please inform your practitioner of any diseases you have or have had. These include in particular cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, tumors, skin infections or severe allergies. If you take medication or vitamins, have had previous cosmetic procedures, or have been treated with other implants, please inform your practitioner. Always read the label and consult your Healthcare Professional for more information. This medical device must be administered by a Healthcare Professional. Merz Australia Pty Ltd (ACN: 151 073 559) Sydney, Australia. NZ Distribution: Pharmacy Retailing NZ Limited t/a Health Care Logistics (HCL). 58 Richard Pearse Drive, Mangere, Auckland 2022. For more information please phone 0800 822 310
Dermal Filler, Medical Device Class III to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, correct facial atrophic scars, restore or enhance the lips, or restore facial volume. Dermal filler has risk and benefits. Ask your doctor if dermal filler is right for you. For product information, check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier.