Sculptra and Radiesse in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Collagen Stimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse) · quick answer
How Sculptra and Radiesse differ, in one paragraph
Sculptra and Radiesse are injectable collagen stimulators: rather than only filling, they prompt your skin to make new collagen. Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and works gradually over a course of sessions, suiting broad volume loss. Radiesse contains calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres in a gel, giving some immediate support plus collagen stimulation, and can be diluted to improve skin firmness. At Ever Skin Clinic, a board-certified dermatologist chooses between them, or a hyaluronic filler, after assessing your face.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D. Founder & Director, board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology residency at Hanyang University Hospital; adjunct professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine. Meet our dermatologists Last reviewed October 2026
- Ingredients
- Sculptra: poly-L-lactic acid; Radiesse: calcium hydroxylapatite
- Best for
- Gradual volume loss, temples, cheeks, jawline, skin laxity
- Sessions
- Sculptra often 2 to 3 about 4 to 6 weeks apart; Radiesse often 1 to 2
- Downtime
- Swelling, tenderness or bruising for a few days
- Duration
- Often about 12 to 24 months, varying by product and person
Side by side
How do Sculptra and Radiesse compare?
Both products are biostimulators. After injection, the particles trigger a mild, controlled tissue response in which fibroblasts lay down new collagen around them; the particles are then gradually broken down by the body. The difference lies in how quickly you see a change and how much immediate structure they provide.
For a deeper look at each product, see our pages on Sculptra and Radiesse. Neither can be dissolved like a hyaluronic acid filler, which is why careful planning matters.
Key differences
- Onset: Sculptra builds over weeks to months; Radiesse gives some visible support immediately
- Areas: Sculptra suits broad hollows such as temples and cheeks; Radiesse suits jawline, chin and firmness
- Sessions: Sculptra usually needs a course; Radiesse often one or two sessions
- Not for: neither is used in lips, and the under-eye area needs special caution
- Reversibility: neither can be dissolved with hyaluronidase
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
Collagen stimulators suit adults with gradual volume loss or thinning, loosening skin who prefer a natural, progressive change over an instant transformation. Patients who want a precise, reversible result in a small area are usually better suited to hyaluronic acid filler.
We also offer other biostimulators, such as Juvelook Volume and Ellansé, depending on your goals.
A collagen stimulator may suit you if you
- Have hollow temples or flattened cheeks from ageing or weight loss
- Want firmer skin quality alongside subtle volume
- Prefer gradual change that looks natural to others
- Want longer-lasting results than many HA fillers
- Can return for follow-up sessions if Sculptra is planned
Your visit
What happens during treatment
A session usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, including numbing time.
- Consultation A board-certified dermatologist assesses volume loss and skin quality and recommends Sculptra, Radiesse or another option.
- Preparation Products are prepared and diluted as planned, and numbing cream or local anaesthetic is used.
- Injection The product is placed with a fine cannula or needle in the correct layer, evenly across the area.
- Aftercare For Sculptra you may be asked to massage the area for several days, and the next session is scheduled.
Real patient · before & after
Restoring volume across the face
This case shows full-face filler, included as an example of how our dermatologists restore balanced volume. It is not a Sculptra or Radiesse result.
Collagen stimulators work more gradually, so their results are judged months after treatment. Ask us for Sculptra or Radiesse cases at consultation.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Swelling, tenderness, redness and bruising are common and usually settle within a few days. With Sculptra, initial swelling makes the area look fuller at first, then subsides before the gradual collagen effect appears. Less common risks include nodules or lumps, which careful dilution and technique help prevent, and rarely vascular occlusion.
Tell your dermatologist if you have an autoimmune disease, active skin infection, a history of keloids or granulomas, take blood thinners, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare tips
- Follow the massage routine if advised after Sculptra, often several times a day for a few days
- Avoid saunas, intense exercise and alcohol for about 24 to 48 hours
- Do not press firmly on Radiesse-treated areas in the first days
- Use a cold compress for swelling on the first day
- Report any firm lump, unusual pain or skin colour change promptly
Questions we hear every day
Collagen Stimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse) FAQ
Should I choose Sculptra or Radiesse?
It depends on your goal. Sculptra suits broad, gradual volume restoration such as hollow temples and cheeks, while Radiesse gives more immediate structure for areas like the jawline and can be diluted to firm the skin. Your dermatologist will advise after examining you.
How long do the results last?
Results often last about twelve to twenty-four months, with Sculptra frequently at the longer end once a full course is completed. Duration varies with your age, metabolism, lifestyle and the amount used.
Do collagen stimulator injections hurt?
Numbing cream or local anaesthetic, sometimes mixed into the product, keeps discomfort manageable. You may feel pressure and some stinging. Tenderness for a few days afterwards is common.
Can I combine them with hyaluronic acid filler?
Yes. Many plans use a collagen stimulator for overall support and skin quality and a small amount of HA filler for precise areas such as the lips or tear troughs. Your dermatologist plans the timing and layers.
Can I have Sculptra during a short stay in Seoul?
You can have a session during your visit, but Sculptra usually needs two or three sessions several weeks apart, so plan return visits. Radiesse often needs fewer sessions. Swelling usually settles within a few days.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp. An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
