FAQs
Biostimulator questions, answered.
What is a biostimulator?+
An injectable that doesn't just fill — it triggers your body to produce new collagen over weeks and months. Reviv carries calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse+) and PMMA microspheres in collagen (Bellafill). HA fillers add immediate volume; biostimulators rebuild structural collagen for longer-term skin quality and lift.
What's the difference between Radiesse and Bellafill?+
Radiesse+ is calcium hydroxylapatite gel that lasts 12–15 months and builds collagen progressively — best for jawline, hands, smile lines, and crepey skin. Bellafill is 80% bovine collagen with 20% PMMA microspheres that remain permanently — FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe rolling acne scars on the cheeks. Bellafill requires a 28-day allergy skin test pre-treatment.
Can biostimulators be dissolved?+
Radiesse can be partially dissolved with hyaluronidase (Hylenex) off-label, often requiring multiple sessions. Bellafill is permanent — the PMMA microspheres remain in tissue indefinitely. This is why Bellafill candidates undergo thorough screening, allergy testing, and conservative initial dosing.
How long do biostimulators last?+
Radiesse+ lasts 12–15 months. Hyperdilute Radiesse skin-tightening lasts 12–18 months. Liquid BBL volumization lasts 12–18 months phased across 2–3 sessions. Bellafill is permanent — published clinical data documents acne-scar correction maintained past 5 years.
Does Reviv offer a non-surgical BBL?+
Yes — Reviv's Liquid BBL uses Radiesse+ to add glute volume and tighten crepey skin without surgery. The entry package is 10 syringes at $5,000, with additional syringes priced at $500 each within the plan. Most patients see optimal results across 2–3 phased sessions over 4–6 months.
Are biostimulators safe for acne scars?+
Bellafill is the only FDA-approved permanent dermal filler for moderate-to-severe rolling acne scars (FDA-approved 2014). It works by lifting tethered scars with PMMA microspheres while bovine collagen scaffolds new connective tissue. Not appropriate for ice-pick or boxcar scars — those typically respond better to microneedling, RF microneedling, or laser resurfacing.
Can I combine biostimulators with Botox or Juvederm?+
Yes — biostim pairs beautifully with HA fillers and neurotoxins. Common combos: Radiesse+ for jawline structure + Volux XC for refined definition, or Hyperdilute Radiesse for crepey neck skin + Skinvive for deep hydration. Botox treats dynamic wrinkles; biostim addresses volume and skin quality.
How much do biostimulators cost at Reviv?+
Radiesse+ a la carte: $775/syringe. Hyperdilute Radiesse+: $775/syringe. Liquid BBL entry plan: $5,000 for 10 syringes ($500 each thereafter). Bellafill: $800 (1 syringe) / $1,500 (2) / $2,100 (3) / $3,000 (6). All pricing transparent — no consult fee, no surprise charges.
Why does Reviv default to Radiesse+ instead of original Radiesse?+
Radiesse+ is calcium hydroxylapatite with built-in lidocaine — same product, same uses, same applications, but significantly more comfortable injection. We stock Radiesse+ by default; original Radiesse available on patient request only. Pricing is identical at $775/syringe a la carte.
Who is a good candidate for biostimulators?+
Best candidates: 35+ with collagen loss showing as jawline laxity, crepey neck/chest, hollow hands, smile-line deepening, or rolling acne scars. Patients seeking long-term collagen rebuilding rather than short-term volume. Not ideal for: lip enhancement (HA wins), tear troughs (use Volbella), patients wanting fully reversible options.
