Radiesse or Sculptra? Here’s How Dr. Godley Helps You Decide
Is Radiesse better than Sculptra? It’s one of the most common questions patients bring to Dr. Mark Godley. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the best option depends on your features and what you want to achieve.
So, what can you expect at your consultation with Dr. Mark Godley?
Dr. Godley takes into account several key factors when making a recommendation: skin thickness, volume loss, elasticity, and even how expressive a patient is in different areas of the face. He observes how the skin moves, where structural support is needed, and what kind of timeline you have in mind. Before your consultation, consider the details that matter most to you. Are you preparing for an upcoming event? Do you prefer results that appear gradually? How comfortable are you with maintenance appointments? These insights help Dr. Godley tailor his approach.
What is Radiesse?
Patients who say, “I want to restore structure and lift, especially in the cheeks or jawline,” are often good candidates for Radiesse. Dr. Godley frequently uses it when patients are looking for visible results sooner, particularly in areas that benefit from more definition and support.
Radiesse is a biostimulatory filler made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel. It provides immediate volume and structure while stimulating collagen production over time. It’s commonly used for facial contouring (like cheeks and jawline) and also for improving skin quality in areas like the neck and hands.
What is Sculptra?
Patients who say, “I just want to glow, like I’ve had better sleep or a great vacation,” often find Sculptra aligns with their expectations. Dr. Godley may recommend it for hollow cheeks, temples, or other areas where gradual collagen renewal is preferred.
Sculptra is an injectable made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a synthetic compound that works deep in the dermis to stimulate collagen growth gradually. Unlike Radiesse, Sculptra doesn’t provide instant volume — results appear slowly over several months, making it well-suited for overall skin rejuvenation and subtle volumization.
What are the disadvantages of Radiesse?
While Radiesse offers immediate results, it’s not recommended for areas with thin skin, like under the eyes or lips, due to its firmer texture. Because it contains calcium-based microspheres, it can be more difficult to dissolve if correction is needed. It may also not be ideal for those seeking subtle or gradual changes.
What are the disadvantages of Sculptra?
Sculptra requires patience — results build slowly over time and often need multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. Some patients may not see noticeable changes right away, which can be frustrating if they’re hoping for immediate improvement. It’s also important to follow aftercare closely, such as massaging the treated areas to avoid the formation of small nodules under the skin.
How long does Radiesse last?
Radiesse typically lasts around 12 to 18 months, depending on the treatment area and the individual’s metabolism. In some cases, its collagen-stimulating effects can improve skin quality even after the filler itself has been metabolized.
How long does Sculptra last?
Sculptra typically provides results for 18 to 24 months. A full treatment plan usually involves multiple sessions, and annual maintenance is recommended to sustain collagen production.
Comparing Pain and Comfort
Both Radiesse and Sculptra are injectable treatments, and while some level of discomfort is expected, most patients find them very tolerable. Dr. Godley employs a gentle injection technique and a strong topical anesthetic cream to enhance patient comfort during both Radiesse and Sculptra treatments.
Radiesse is often injected deeper for structural support, but it contains lidocaine, which helps ease discomfort during the procedure. Patients typically describe the sensation as a quick pinch followed by mild pressure. Sculptra usually requires more injection points per session. This can make the treatment feel slightly more sensitive for some patients, particularly during longer sessions.
How to Choose Between Radiesse and Sculptra
When Dr. Godley builds a treatment plan, here’s how the discussion often unfolds:
Choose Radiesse if:
You’re looking for noticeable lift and volume right away
You want structural definition in areas like the jawline or cheeks
You’re treating areas that benefit from firmness and support
Choose Sculptra if:
You prefer a gradual, natural-looking improvement
You’re interested in skin quality, elasticity, and a refreshed look over time
You’re comfortable with a multi-session treatment plan
Bottom line: There’s no universal “better” option — just the one that’s better for you. Dr. Godley considers each patient’s anatomy, goals, and preferences before recommending a personalized approach.
Book your consultation
Book your consultation with Dr. Mark Godley in Vancouver or Abbotsford to discuss which treatment aligns with your aesthetic goals.
