When it comes to dermal fillers, longevity is a top concern for patients. Both Bellast Ultra L and Radiesse are popular choices, but how do they stack up in terms of duration? Let’s break it down with real-world data and clinical insights.
Radiesse, made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres suspended in a gel carrier, is known for its dual action: it provides immediate volume while stimulating collagen production over time. Clinical studies show its effects typically last **12–18 months** in areas like the cheeks and hands. A 2021 review published in *Aesthetic Surgery Journal* noted that 78% of patients maintained visible improvement at the 12-month mark. However, in high-movement zones like the lips, results may fade closer to **9–12 months** due to natural muscle activity.
Bellast Ultra L, a newer hyaluronic acid (HA)-based filler infused with lidocaine for comfort, takes a different approach. Its cross-linking technology and high elasticity (G-prime) allow it to resist deformation in dynamic areas. According to data from MJS Medicals, the manufacturer, **80% of users reported results lasting 18–24 months** in midface and jawline treatments. This extended duration is partly due to Bellast’s ability to integrate with tissue while triggering gradual collagen synthesis—a process verified in a 2023 *Dermatologic Therapy* study involving 150 patients.
But wait—does HA really outlast CaHA? That depends on the formulation and treatment area. Radiesse’s CaHA particles create a scaffolding effect, which continues stimulating collagen even after the gel dissipates. For example, Dr. Lisa Grunebaum, a Miami-based dermatologist, shared in a 2022 webinar that her patients often see “residual skin thickening” for up to **6 months post-filler degradation**. Meanwhile, Bellast Ultra L’s HA binds water molecules, maintaining hydration and volume longer than traditional HA fillers. In a head-to-head trial by Aesthetic Clinics Group, Bellast retained **30% more volume** than Radiesse in nasolabial folds after 18 months.
Cost and maintenance cycles also play a role. Radiesse averages **$800–$1,200 per syringe**, with touch-ups recommended annually. Bellast Ultra L, priced slightly higher at **$1,000–$1,400 per syringe**, offers fewer repeat sessions—a cost-saving perk over time. One New York medspa reported a **22% reduction in annual filler expenses** for clients who switched to Bellast for cheek augmentation.
Real-world examples add clarity. Take celebrity aesthetician Nurse Jamie’s viral TikTok review: after using Bellast Ultra L on a client with sunken temples, she documented “still-perfect symmetry” at the **20-month follow-up**. Conversely, Radiesse made headlines in 2020 when it was used to restore hand volume in arthritis patients—with 63% reporting sustained improvement after **14 months**, per *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*.
So which lasts longer? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. For static areas like cheekbones, Bellast Ultra L’s HA longevity shines. For zones needing collagen remodeling (e.g., backs of hands), Radiesse’s CaHA provides enduring structural benefits. Your choice hinges on anatomy, budget, and desired outcomes—but with both options offering over a year of results, patients win either way.