Understanding Your Under-Eye Radiesse Treatment

Radiesse represents a revolutionary approach to addressing under-eye concerns, offering patients a non-surgical solution for volume loss, fine lines, and hollow areas beneath the eyes. This calcium hydroxylapatite-based dermal filler works by immediately adding volume while stimulating your body’s natural collagen production for long-lasting results.

The under-eye area presents unique challenges for cosmetic treatment due to its delicate skin structure and proximity to sensitive areas. Understanding proper aftercare becomes crucial for achieving optimal results and minimizing potential complications. Your journey toward refreshed, youthful-looking eyes begins with your treatment, but the care you provide afterward determines the success of your investment.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care (First 24 Hours)

The Critical First Six Hours

Avoid touching the treated area within 6 hours of your treatment, after which the treatment area can be gently washed with soap and water. During this initial period, the filler remains malleable and can shift if disturbed. Keep your hands away from your face, and resist the urge to examine or feel the treated area.

Your injector may have applied gentle pressure or massage immediately after treatment to ensure proper distribution of the filler. This professional manipulation helps achieve even results, but you should not attempt to massage the area yourself during these first crucial hours.

Managing Swelling and Bruising

Apply cold compresses to the treated area for the first 24 hours to minimize swelling and bruising. Use a clean cloth or gel ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to protect your delicate skin from direct contact with ice. Apply the compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, with breaks between applications.

Most of the swelling will however disappear within a week and will not last for more than 10 days under normal circumstances. Some patients experience minimal swelling, while others may notice more pronounced puffiness. Individual responses vary based on factors such as skin sensitivity, injection technique, and the amount of product used.

Sleep and Positioning

Elevate your head while sleeping during the first few nights after treatment. Use an extra pillow or sleep in a slightly upright position to reduce fluid accumulation in the treated area. This positioning helps minimize morning puffiness and supports the healing process.

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or side if possible, as pressure on the treated area could potentially affect the filler’s placement during the initial settling period.

Week One: Establishing Your Care Routine

Daily Cleansing Protocol

After the first six hours, you can gently cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel rather than rubbing, which could irritate the treated area or disturb the filler placement.

Choose gentle, hypoallergenic skincare products during the first week. Avoid products containing active ingredients like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, or vitamin C, which might cause irritation to the already sensitive post-treatment skin.

Activity Modifications

Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours after your treatment. Physical exertion increases blood flow and can exacerbate swelling and bruising. Light activities such as walking remain acceptable, but avoid high-intensity workouts, hot yoga, or activities that cause excessive sweating.

Physicians should advise patients to avoid strenuous activities, exposure to the sun, and wearing makeup for a minimum of 24 hours post-treatment to optimize healing and results.

Sun Protection and Heat Avoidance

Until redness and swelling have gone down, avoid exposure to intense heat (sunlamps/sunbathing) and maintain vigilant sun protection. The treated skin may be more sensitive to UV radiation, and heat can increase swelling and discomfort.

When you do venture outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and consider wearing sunglasses that provide adequate coverage for the under-eye area. A wide-brimmed hat offers additional protection during the healing phase.

Managing Side Effects and Expectations

Normal vs. Concerning Symptoms

After your radiesse under eye treatment, you may notice some redness or swelling, but this typically subsides within a few days as part of the normal healing process. These common side effects indicate that your body is responding appropriately to the treatment.

Normal symptoms include mild swelling, slight redness, tenderness to touch, and small bumps or firmness at injection sites. These typically resolve within a few days to a week as the filler integrates with your natural tissues.

Watch for signs that might indicate complications, such as severe pain, excessive swelling that worsens after 48 hours, signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus), or vision changes. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms.

The Settling Process

Patients often see immediate improvements with the full effect becoming evident within a week as the initial swelling subsides and the filler settles into its final position. Understanding this timeline helps set realistic expectations and reduces anxiety about your results.

During the first week, you may notice asymmetry or unevenness as different areas heal at varying rates. This temporary irregularity typically resolves as the healing process progresses. Take photos to document your progress, but avoid making judgments about your final results until at least two weeks post-treatment.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance

Skincare Integration

Once the initial healing period passes, you can gradually reintroduce your regular skincare routine. However, approach active ingredients with caution. Start with lower concentrations and observe how your skin responds before returning to full-strength products.

Maintain excellent hydration through both topical moisturizers and adequate water intake. Well-hydrated skin supports the longevity of your results and maintains the healthy appearance of the treated area.

Protecting Your Investment

Radiesse provides long-lasting results, but maintaining those results requires ongoing care. Continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, as UV exposure remains the primary cause of premature aging and can af