"It's been about two weeks since the procedure, and it looks like it's sunken in again."
We often receive this contact from those who have received Radiesse.
However, this is not a disappearance of the effect, but rather a transition to the second stage.
If you don't understand this flow, you might feel disappointed at precisely that time.
Please take just one minute to read this.
Divided into Two Stages
| Stage | What Fills It | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Injected gel component itself | Immediately after procedure |
| Interim Period | Volume reduction as gel is absorbed | 2-6 weeks |
| Stage 2 | Newly created collagen | Several months thereafter |
Radiesse injects calcium components (CaHA) in a gel.
The visible volume immediately after injection is created by that gel.
The gel is absorbed over time, and newly created collagen fills that space.
Therefore, an interim period occurs where the gel has dissipated, and collagen has not yet been sufficiently created.
Judging During That Period Can Be Misleading
The problem is that many people judge the results precisely at this time.
Comparing photos immediately after the procedure with the face at week 3 will naturally show a reduction.
This is when reviews like "I just wasted my money" appear.
To observe the progress, you should compare photos from before the procedure with those from 3 months later.
Photos taken immediately after are not appropriate as a comparison standard because they show the effect of the gel.
(※ Effects and reactions may vary depending on individual skin conditions, and suitability for the procedure is determined through consultation with medical staff.)
Conditions for Good Collagen Production
Stage 2 is a process carried out by the skin, so there can be significant individual differences.
- Age and existing collagen status
- Whether the injected layer was appropriate
- Smoking and UV exposure
- Degree of movement in the treated area
In particular, the injection layer significantly determines the results.
If injected too shallowly, nodules may be palpable; if too deeply, the desired volume may not be created in the target area.
Even with the same volume, how it is spread across which layer determines the final shape.
Why Not Fill to the Target in One Go
If the immediate volume is matched to the target, it may become excessive when collagen is added several months later.
Therefore, it is safer to aim lower than the target initially and, if necessary, reinforce after observing the Stage 2 results.
This means the timing of judgment is opposite to procedures that fill immediately.
The difference from immediate filling methods was also discussed in Marionette Lines: Fill or Regenerate.
Frequently Asked Questions
It looks sunken 2-3 weeks after the procedure; is something wrong?
This may be an interim period where the injected gel has been absorbed, and collagen has not yet been sufficiently created. It is more accurate to compare photos from before the procedure with those from 3 months later for progress.
When is the effect complete?
Collagen production proceeds over several months. The speed and degree may vary depending on age, injection layer, and lifestyle habits.
Can't I inject a large amount at once?
If the immediate volume is matched to the target, it may become excessive when collagen is added. It is safer to aim lower and reinforce after observing the progress.
I heard about palpable nodules; is that true?
Nodules may be palpable if the injection layer is too shallow. It is important to target the appropriate depth for each area.
Can I receive it with Filler?
It is sometimes combined by immediately filling deep lines and managing surrounding elasticity through regeneration. The distribution may vary depending on the condition.
Recovery and Downtime: Progress of Injection-Based Procedures
Bruising or swelling may remain at the injection site for a few days.
It is advisable to avoid strong massage and saunas for the first two days.
Depending on the area, the shape may be refined by rubbing immediately after the procedure, so you must follow the guidance of your medical staff regarding self-massage.
How is the Cost Structured?
The cost is not determined by volume alone.
It varies depending on how many areas are treated, whether it will be filled in one session or divided, and whether reinforcement sessions are included in the plan.
Inclusion of pre-diagnosis and post-procedure care also affects the cost.
For an accurate cost, it is more precise to provide guidance after a consultation to assess the degree of hollowing.
Visit and Consultation Information
O.N Clinic is conveniently located near Gangnam Station, making it easily accessible by subway.
For any questions before your visit, you can easily inquire via Chat with us now, and through consultation, you can coordinate the injection area, session plan, and appointment schedule.
It is more accurate to determine the volume and layer after checking your skin condition during an in-person consultation.
Author: Dr. Oh Seung-min (Representative Director of O.N Clinic, graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine, Academic Committee Chairman of the Korean Laser Dermatology and Hair Society). For detailed credentials, please refer to Meet Our Team. First Published: 2026-08-08 / Last Reviewed: 2026-08-15
This article is for general information purposes only, and suitable treatments and results may vary depending on individual conditions.
