Aesthetic Applications of Calcium Hydroxylapatite Volumizing Filler: An Evidence-Based Review and Discussion of Current Concepts: (Part 1 of 2)
December 2013 | Volume 12 | Issue 12 | Original Article | 1345 | Copyright © December 2013
Jason Emer MD FAADa and Hema Sundaram MD FAADb
aUCSF Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Center, San Francisco, CA
bSundaram Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, Rockville, MD and Fairfax, VA
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Calcium hydroxylapatite filler (CaHA; Radiesse) is a synthetic, non-animal derived product composed of minerals that occur
naturally in bone and teeth. Following its development in the US, initial approval by the US FDA for non-aesthetic indications and CE
marking in Europe, it was used off FDA-labeling for aesthetic purposes. Its use has grown further since its FDA approval in 2006 for
long-lasting correction of moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. It is a popular filler for volume restoration to the face, and also to nonfacial
areas such as the dorsum of the hands.
METHODS: The first article of this two-part series provides an evidence-based review of study data pertaining to the mechanism of action
and biocompatibility of CaHA filler, and its safety, efficacy and tolerability when used for aesthetic purposes. The review includes
data from a number of prospective, controlled comparative studies, from several retrospective studies, and from a meta-analysis of
reported complications from alloplastic filler procedures over a 20-year period. The study methodology and number of study subjects
are sufficiently robust to provide a high Evidence Level for much of the data.
RESULTS: CaHA has good safety, efficacy and tolerability profiles that are comparable to those of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. It provides
an initial, immediate volume replacement for up to 12 months followed by longer term correction due to biostimulation, resulting in collagenesis.
Evidence Level II studies show longevity of 30 months or more after nasolabial fold implantation. Other studies demonstrate
the appropriateness of CaHA filler for volume restoration to areas including the mid face, lower face and hands. CaHA is classified as
an adjustable filler, whereas HA is fully reversible by hyaluronidase digestion. For this reason, and also because of CaHA's high viscosity
and elasticity, evidence-based and experiential consensus suggests its avoidance in highly mobile areas (e.g. lips) or in anatomically
unforgiving areas (e.g. the periocular region), where there may be increased incidence of nodules.
CONCLUSION: CaHA filler is safe, efficacious and well-tolerated when used appropriately. It is increasingly recognized that many patients
require pan-facial volume restoration, and that many can benefit from combined treatments. Therefore, CaHA and HA fillers may be
considered complementary rather than competitive to each other. The second article of this series offers a discussion of product characteristics,
scientific principles and injection techniques to optimize treatment with CaHA filler, including special considerations for
avoidance and management of complications.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2013;12(12):1345-1354.
INTRODUCTION
The popularity of soft tissue fillers for facial rejuvenation
is increasing. Aesthetic use of fillers gained momentum,
safety and reliability with the successive introductions
of several non-animal derived products composed
of hyaluronic acid (HA) or calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA).
Expansion in the portfolio of available filler products, studies
of facial aging and accrued experience have led to refinement
in injection techniques, and realization that efficacious volume
restoration can accomplish three-dimensional contouring in
addition to wrinkle-filling. This article is the first of a two-part
series focusing on aesthetic applications of calcium hydroxylapatite
volumizing filler (CaHA; Radiesse, Merz Aesthetics, Inc.,Franksville, WI, US). It provides an evidence-based review of
data pertaining to the safety, efficacy and tolerability of CaHA
filler, and also its mechanism of action and biocompatibility following
implantation.
Analysis of Clinical Efficacy
HA fillers in common use for aesthetic indications were developed
and first studied in Europe. In contrast, CaHA filler was
developed and initially studied in the US. The United States
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved CaHA in 2006
for subdermal implantation to correct moderate to severe facial
wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds; and for restora-
