Evaluation of the Radiance FN soft tissue filler for facial soft tissue augmentation.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction of Radiance FN (fine needle) (BioForm Inc, Franksville, Wis), a highly biocompatible, calcium hydroxylapatite-based implant, when used for facial soft tissue augmentation. METHODS Ninety patients aged between 25 and 85 years underwent subdermal injection with Radiance FN. The primary areas treated were lips, nasolabial folds, glabellar rhytids, marionette lines, prejowl depressions, acne scars, and surgical soft tissue defects. Patients were surveyed after treatment and for up to 6 months for pain, ecchymosis, skin erythema, nodules, softness, appearance, and satisfaction. RESULTS In terms of efficacy, at 6 months, appearance, softness, and overall patient satisfaction were rated good or excellent in 74%, 80%, and 88% of patients, respectively. Moderate or severe pain occurred with injection in 59% of patients but disappeared 2 to 5 minutes after injection. Erythema, edema, and ecchymosis were common immediately after treatment but resolved in all patients within 2 weeks. Seven patients had persistent visible mucosal lip nodules, 4 of whom required intervention. CONCLUSIONS Radiance FN is highly effective and well tolerated when used for facial soft tissue augmentation. Additional experience with longer follow-up will help determine the most appropriate use and long-term safety for the implant.